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In marketing, having a diverse team that is representative of the people we are marketing to helps us come up with effective ideas that help audiences discover brands that align with their values, which consumers say gets them to notice and act. That’s why six competing agencies – Carmichael Lynch Relate, Exponent PR, Hotwire PR, Padilla, Tunheim, and Weber Shandwick – joined forces to create 'Take Flight: An Inclusive Communications Exploration.' Each agency had an existing talent formation program, but in the wake of the murder of George Floyd, they came together with a determination to make change on a larger scale. With their combined efforts, the program is now in its third year of continuing to help all kinds of students secure internships and jobs.

At its heart, 'Take Flight' is an externship. To encourage students to pursue careers in public relations and communications, 'Take Flight' immerses them in a real-world look at the profession through a direct-access learning program led by industry experts. They’re welcomed into a network of professional and each student is matched one-on-one with a Career Explorer Partner (CEP) to connect them with employment opportunities. They also receive resume and portfolio development, coaching and friendship.

•  The program has resulted in ongoing interest in the profession with 83 percent of students were considering a longer-term career at a communications agency.
• Ninety-one percent said the program was successful in helping them learn what it’s like working at a communications agency and 100 percent would recommend 'Take Flight' to a friend or another student.
• Over half of students who have gone through the program ended up with an internship or job within the industry.

Applications are now open for the 2024-25 program year. Visit  for details.