Intern Insights: Reflecting on six wonderful weeks with Eskenzi PR
As my internship with Eskenzi PR comes to a close, I am happy to share my reflections on my growth and learning in the PR and cybersecurity industries. Hello! My name is Kelsey, and I’m a public relations student at Indiana University (located in the Midwest ), but I have spent the last six weeks living, learning, and working in London! I was thrilled to receive an offer back in January to work at Eskenzi PR, but with no prior knowledge of cybersecurity, I knew I had a lot to learn in a very short amount of time. Six weeks have felt far too short with the incredible Eskenzi team, who welcomed my fellow intern, Peyton, and me with open arms and have continued to support us along the way.
Week 1: In my first week, I started working with one of Eskenzi’s clients, KnowBe4, a security awareness training organization. Although I was nervous about interacting with this huge cybersecurity training company with no prior cybersecurity knowledge, I was greeted with friendly jokes and sarcasm from their team (s/o Javvad, Joella, and Anne )! At the start, it was challenging to identify the types of cyber terms and news stories most relevant to this client, but I began to catch on to the different types of cyber threats and vulnerabilities that KnowBe4 and other cybersecurity organizations prevent and protect against.
Weeks 2+3: Before attending Infosecurity Europe, my fellow intern, Peyton, and I crafted a social media campaign to generate excitement around our team’s attendance at the conference and Eskenzi’s history with Infosec. We gathered quotes from each Eskenzi employee attending the conference, indicating how many years they had attended and what they were looking forward to the most. We explored old photo albums to create a post displaying how Infosec has evolved over the last 30 years, including changes in venues, larger show floors, and a variety of keynote speakers. After so much buildup, it was finally time to head to the ExCel Centre!
Week 4: The highlight of my internship was attending ALL three days of Infosecurity Europe! I had a blast meeting so many members of the KnowBe4 team, including Security Awareness Advocates, Javvad Malik and Erich Kron, and talking all things UK with the local, friendly associates at their stand. If you were lucky, you may have run into me at the conference conducting a “brief” survey. Although I was apprehensive about walking up to strangers in the massive exhibition room on day one, I became more comfortable stopping anyone and everyone to answer the survey and discuss their time at the conference or how far they had traveled to attend. I loved attending the European Cybersecurity Bloggers Awards sponsored by Keeper and powered by Eskenzi. It was inspiring to see all of the creative voices in the cyber industry, especially those who make cyber engaging and simplified for those of us who are new!
Weeks 5+6: Back at the office, I’ve had the opportunity to analyze survey data regarding the use of AI chatbot tools among US consumers and write media alerts on three sectors: healthcare & wellbeing, news & productivity, and personal relationships. I learned how to generate unique media lists and pitch these new findings, thanks to the guidance from incredible supervisors and Account Managers, Charley and Tara. I’m grateful to have also assisted Jade and Jasmine Eskenzi by gathering research for The Zensory, their mindfulness and wellbeing platform. When surveying at Infosec, I noticed how many people reported distractions and fatigue as reasons why employees fell for phishing or other cyber attacks. I love how Jade and Jasmine have crafted their mindfulness platform, tailored specifically for cyber organizations. It allows employees to focus in or zone out using binaural beats, music, soundscapes, and more, helping them tune in or relax in moments of calm when they need it most! Altogether, my time in London and with Eskenzi PR has been truly unforgettable. This chapter of growth and exploration would not have been possible without the guidance and support from everyone on the Eskenzi team. Personally and professionally, I have grown and thrived in London, and I can’t wait to bring my new skills back to Indiana. Thank you, Eskenzi, for embracing this American student so graciously and encouragingly. ❤️