Internship Insider: Gavin Zivoder

An Unexpected Opportunity
This past summer, I was determined to gain real-world experience in public relations. Like many undergraduates, I learned quickly how competitive internship searches can be. After several interviews and rejections, and with summer ending, I accepted a part-time job at a law firm so I could at least gain professional office experience.
​
Right before I started, a LinkedIn connection tagged me in a post from Corey Kinder, senior manager of affinity marketing for the Cleveland Browns. He was looking for two brand ambassadors for training camp. I reached out, but Corey told me the positions were already filled due to high interest.

Four days into my new job, I checked LinkedIn late one night and saw a message from Corey asking if I was still interested and if we could connect as soon as possible. The next thing I knew, I was at the Browns’ Berea facility working with the Fan and Brand Development staff to support training camp and create memorable experiences for attendees. 

At the end of the week, I thanked Corey for the opportunity, thinking this was it. He told me to hold onto my badge and that he would keep me updated on what’s next.

A Season of Experience
Since then, I have supported Fan Experience and Special Events throughout the season, including Dawg Pound Drive on game days, mascot appearances with departments such as corporate partnerships and community relations and affinity programs like Junior Browns Backers and Barking Backers. I have also helped with events including Barking Backers Howl-O-Ween and Junior Browns Backers Sideline Spooktacular, and will assist with winter events as well.

My responsibilities include guest check-in, crowd flow, giveaway distribution, station support and event setup and teardown. I am also working with the Browns marketing coordinator as my client for my Media Relations and Publicity course.

The Power of a Profile
Before having gained all of this experience, I asked Corey what made him return to my message out of so many. His answer was simple: my LinkedIn profile stood out.

Professors and professionals always emphasize the value of networking. And while it can feel like a chore at times, it works. PRSSA helped me learn how to build a strong digital presence through workshops and personal branding guidance. Long before I joined the executive board, I started as a member attending events and learning how to present myself professionally.

That work paid off in a way I never expected.

Key Takeaway
​Sometimes opportunities arrive when you least expect them, but they only come if you put yourself out there. Keep connecting, keep reaching out and keep building your personal brand, because someone might be paying attention.