Earlier this year, MAVERICK hosted its second annual MAVERICK Idol contest where contestants presented to a team of four judges to earn a three month internship. I myself earned my position here at MAVERICK as an account coordinator through my participation in the contest in 2009.

We're happy to announce this year's winner Elana Ziluk has been hired on as an account coordinator and she is my very adorable cubicle neighbour! Congrats darling! After calling her mother and telling all her friends on Facebook and Twitter, I looped back with Elana to chat about her overall experience of the Idol contest and what advice she has for any other job-searching PR graduates.

KB: What was your overall impression of the MAVERICK Idol contest?

EZ: I found the idol competition to be very exciting. I liked how the competition was open to everyone, whether you had PR training/experience, or not. The only requirement was that you had passion for the practice. Although I already completed a three month internship at another PR agency, I didn't have enough experience to secure a full-time PR position. I applied everywhere and no one would hire me without experience. My situation left me pretty disenchanted with my career choice. So when a friend of mine told me about the MAVERICK Idol contest, I jumped at the opportunity. The contest was my chance to prove to an agency (and myself) that I have what it takes to succeed in the world of PR.  

We were given four days to create and present a PR campaign for a product launch. I liked how the experience reflected what working at a PR agency is all about. The assignment tested our time management skills, creative process, attention to detail, and our ability to deliver a presentation that is both engaging and timely.

KB: What tasks do you typically work on and what skills do you think are important for a PR intern?

EZ: I was given more responsibility as an intern at MAVERICK than at my first internship position at a larger PR agency. At my previous internship, my responsibilities were very administrative. I ordered and set-up catering for meetings, delivered the mail, sent out packages to media. In addition to daily media monitoring, my internship at MAVERICK consisted of developing a communications plan for a new business pitc, drafting media releases, advisories, award submissions, and a case study; participating in logistical planning for events; participating in client meetings. I think it's important for an intern to be an earnest worker, and to show gratitude with any and every assignment given to them.

KB:What has been your favourite project to work on thus far and what are you most looking forward to?

EZ: My favourite project so far was working on the Eaton Centre Revitalization announcement where I helped develop the media presentation. It was really exciting to see the final product displayed in front of the media on announcement day. I'm really looking forward to working on projects for Joey Don Mills and Symantec. September is shaping up to be an exciting month!

KB:What advice do you have for upcoming PR grads?

EZ: The best advice I can offer is to be persistent, and not be afraid to put yourself out there. If you're struggling in the job market, don't be ashamed to ask for help. Reach out to your former teachers or classmates for job leads, or even for suggestions on how to better your resume and cover letters. Embrace any and every opportunity that presents itself, even if it means accepting a second internship.