MWW Z-Suite

About the program

Now in our fourth year, MikeWorldWide (MWW), one of the world’s leading independent, integrated PR agencies, is once again partnering with American University to sponsor the Z-Suite program. This program is designed to give students the opportunity to provide insights and ideas to MWW account teams for existing and future clients. The program gives students exposure to the actual challenges and opportunities PR professionals work on every day. The program allows students to get real-world experience virtually while being paid for their ideas and insights.

Thirty-five-years young, MWW has gone from one employee in one room with one client to among the world’s leading independent, integrated PR agencies with eight offices across the US and the UK. Guided by data and powered by insights, intellect and instincts, we uniquely deliver on a people-first, client-centric promise that leans heavily into a digitally-led, content-driven approach. Our mission is to get to the heart of the matter: igniting influence and impact to help organizations matter more to those who matter most.

Our expertise spans Consumer Lifestyle Marketing, Corporate Communications and Reputation Management, Public Affairs, Issues & Crisis Management, LGBTQ, Technology, Sports & Entertainment, Food & Beverage and Health & Wellness.

We believe that modern communications go far beyond in the integration of traditional digital – that’s table stakes in 2021. True integrated strategy is about the intersection of consumer, corporate reputation and public affairs. To confirm our instincts, the agency undertook groundbreaking primary research which and identified a wholly new segment, the CorpSumer™. To speak to this audience, and the varied stakeholders critical to our clients’ businesses, we lean into what we call earned-worthy content. No matter the channel, message or medium, every piece of content is designed to spark interest, conversation, and most importantly, engagement.

To learn more about MWW, visit http://www.mww.com or follow us on social @MWW_PR.

With dedicated insights, strategy, data and analytics, digital and content and creative teams, MWWPR’s expertise spans Consumer Lifestyle Marketing, Corporate Communications and Reputation Management, Public Affairs, Issues & Crisis Management, LGBTQ, Technology, Sports & Entertainment, B2B, Food & Beverage and Health & Wellness. In 2018, MWWPR was named Independent Public Relations Consultancy of the Year for Americas by the International Communications Consultancy Organization (ICCO).

To learn more about MWWPR, visit its website or follow on social @MWW_PR

American University School of Communication is the only professional school in Washington that brings journalism, film, public relations and communication studies together, with an international perspective and a focus on new media and entrepreneurship. SOC empowers undergraduates and graduates in its programs to tell stories that influence change, inspire action, and transform our communities and our world.

Program Specifics

What We Need

We are looking for 15 undergraduate and graduate students who are SOC majors or minors. This experiential learning opportunity will allow participants to hone their skills and gain a better understanding of the ever-evolving PR industry. Z-Suiters will have the opportunity to work directly with MWW associates to receive counsel, feedback and mentoring. 

What's Included (Primary Responsibilities)

Z-Suiters will be asked to respond to a number of challenges as well as participate in the occasional focus group. Responses will likely be no more than a page. We anticipate that during the program period, students will respond to anywhere between five to eight challenges. Students must maintain active participation in order to remain in the program and receive compensation. MWW will be actively recruiting from the Z-Suite cohort so the quality of your responses is important. 

Z-Suiters who are U.S. citizens will be eligible to receive a stipend of $500 for the program period. All participants also will be required to attend a mandatory virtual training session Wednesday, September 21 at 5pm.

What You Have to Have (Education and Experience Requirements)

  • All SOC undergraduate and graduate majors and minors are eligible to apply. 
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, be an AB-540 student/DACA recipient. International students may also apply but likely cannot be compensated due to VISA requirements.
  • Historically underrepresented minority students and students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply
  • Superior oral and written communication skills; proofreading and editing ability
  • Maintain a professional, client-ready demeanor and presentation; keep a high standard of etiquette in all communications and interactions

Success Factors and Other Details

  • Avid consumer of all forms of news, trends and insights the ability to apply that knowledge to challenges
  • Ability to think strategically, creatively and proactively; exhibit a facility for problem solving, creative and innovation thinking and close attention to detail
  • Desire to pursue knowledge and professional development

 

How to Apply

Applicants should fill out this Qualtrics form to apply. All applications must be received by midnight on Sunday, September 11, 2022. Application materials should be emailed to MWWPR@american.edu. If you are selected for the Fall 2022 cohort, you will need to attend a mandatory training session prior to the start of the program and a recruitment event in December.  

EEO and Diversity Statement

MWW is an equal opportunities employer and values diversity. EOE/AA/M/F/V/D.

American University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution that operates in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.  The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, personal appearance, gender identity and expression, family responsibilities, political affiliation, source of income, veteran status, an individual’s genetic information or any other bases under federal or local laws (collectively “Protected Bases”) in its programs and activities.