Opportunity in paid vs. unpaid public relations internships: A semantic network analysis

Abstract

Abstract Semantic network analysis was used to compare differences in benefit appeal in two sets of letters written by the business community to the internship director. In the Unpaid set (N=72) the promise of “opportunity” co-occurred more often with appeals such as “for credit,” “flexible schedule” and “supervision.” In the Paid set (N=73) emphasis was placed on writing skills and work related tasks. This study reveals the business community's understanding of student expectations from the internship experience.