Leveraging Opportunities

Kori Clanton, Consultant
OgilvyRED at Ogilvy & Mather World Wide

“My internships enhanced my overall level of professionalism and provided me with a competitive edge in the job market upon graduation. Specifically, I learned time-management, the value of networking, and the fundamentals of marketing, organization, and operations of the cable TV industry."

Summer 2008:TruTV 
Summer  2009: Showtime Networks, Inc./Smithsonian Channel
Fall 2009: T. Howard Foundation Administrative Intern
Summer 2010: Verizon FiOS TV

Through the T. Howard Foundation Kori Clanton completed several internships that prepared her for the prestigious 2010-2011 Ogilvy Associates Program with the advertising firm Ogilvy & Mather in New York, NY. Upon completion of the 10 month program, Kori was extended an invitation to join the firm as a Consultant. Kori earned a B.A. in Communications from George Washington University in Washington, DC.

How did you hear about the T. Howard Foundation?

Back in 2008 during my sophomore year, I received an email-blast from the GWU Communication department with featured links and information regarding internship opportunities. I learned that a representative from the foundation was coming to campus to conduct an informational presentation about student opportunities. I applied and was placed into my first internship with TruTV in New York City during the summer of 2008.

Was there an assignment and/or project you loved working on the most?

Each summer I had awesome opportunities to grow both personally and professionally in my internship placements and was involved in great work. At Showtime Networks, Inc.  all of the summer interns were required to complete a final project based on one of the network’s business challenges. I worked with a wonderful team led by Frank Pintauro the Executive Creative Director and General Manager, the Red Group to develop multiplatform marketing campaigns for the Showtime series' “Dexter” and “United States of Tara".

What were your original expectations for the internship?

My expectations for my internship experiences were always high. The THF orientation prior to the start of my internships helped further solidify my belief in this organization and made me proud to be a part of it. From my initial interactions with the Foundation, I have always witnessed a high level of professionalism and care for the interests and professional growth of the interns.

As a result of your internship, you have a better understanding of…

The multimedia and entertainment industry. My experiences were beneficial because I was able to apply classroom knowledge to real-world experience and vice-versa. As a Communication major in college I knew that I was interested in pursuing a career within media/PR but my internship experience helped solidified my passion for the field.

If there was advice you could give a prospective student, what would you say?

Education is necessary, but your experience and your reputation are the ambassadors of your success. Learn how to communicate your desires, interests, and professional ambitions to people who can help you achieve your goals.