Back to the Basics: Copy Editing as an Internship

“What’s the most important skill you need to be successful in the PR industry? “

While networking with PR professionals and successful individuals in similar fields, I’ve definitely asked that question the most. As a student with an unclear career path, I figured that learning the most important skills early on would optimize my time for whatever direction I decide to take. Unsurprising to some, I received the same answer almost every single time: writing.

Naturally, the insight circled my mind while searching for potential internship opportunities this summer. I eventually accepted a copy editing internship at OneStream, a software company that helps businesses unify their finance processes. Not only have I gained hands-on experience with integrated Ad/PR tactics such as blogs, websites, eBooks, press releases, and infographics, but I’ve also been able to head back to the basics and sharpen my writing skills.

Here are the three most important skills I’ve learned so far as a copy editing intern:

Proofreading

Expectedly, my primary responsibility involves proofreading copy for all of the integrated tactics listed above. After the design team finishes a project, I serve as the final set of eyes before approval. I prioritize consistent grammar, proper spelling, and optimal sentence structure for each project. Proofreading those materials has both heightened my attention to detail and improved my overall writing skills. I now feel more confident about suggesting improvements to others and catching mistakes within my own writing.

AP Style

Likely due to brief grammar guidelines, I noticed many inconsistencies between different writers. For example, I encountered some writing samples that included a space on each side of an em dash and some that omitted the spaces. Sometimes, I even noticed inconsistencies within the same writing sample. Without detailed grammar guidelines, it was understandable why this variety in writing styles existed. To increase brand consistency, I initiated a proposal to expand the company’s grammar guidelines.

Although I typically resell my textbooks, deciding to hold onto my AP Style textbook proved to be a lifesaver. From grammar and punctuation to capitalization and abbreviations, the textbook provided a much-needed framework for elements not included in the company’s current grammar guidelines. After studying many of the relevant chapters, I definitely have a better understanding of AP Style that I can take with me into my future career.

Branded Writing

While AP Style served as a great baseline for expanding the grammar guidelines, it was not a “how to” guide in itself. It is important to note that strategically straying away from AP Style can be beneficial when it comes to matching a company’s branding. For OneStream, capitalizing specific words or phrases that are typically left lowercase (such as “Take Finance Further”) displays a unique branding strategy that draws attention to the company’s purpose. This has taught me to prioritize which decision makes the most sense for a particular company rather than which is the most widely accepted method.

Similarly, different tactics may call for unique stylistic choices. For example, it is typical for numbers under 10 to be spelled out when appearing in the body copy of blogs, press releases, and websites. However, including numbers in infographic titles can be a strategic way to capture visual attention.

As my internship comes to a close, I am confident these writing skills will assist me on my career journey no matter what path I decide to take.

Alexia Frazzitta is a senior at Grand Valley State University studying Advertising and Public Relations with a minor in Digital Studies. Alexia is the current President of PRSSA for the 2024-2025 school year and will be returning to GrandPR for her second year as an Account Associate. Outside of PRSSA, she works in the Office of Student Life to help students get involved on campus. After graduation, Alexia hopes to utilize her copywriting and brand strategy skills in the technology or entertainment industry.