Emails, Edits, and Epiphanies: The Life of a Provost Office Intern
Hi! My name is Tiarra East, and I’m a copywriter but during my time as an intern for Temple University’s Provost Office, I had the chance to wear a few hats. I worked as a copywriter, content creator, and all-around creative mind helping to communicate important information to students. It wasn’t just about writing words. It was about making sure those words mattered. If you had told me a few months ago that I’d be geeking out over academic strategy and university funding, I probably would’ve raised an eyebrow. But here we are. I dove into the world of higher ed and came out on the other side with a whole new perspective and some very real skills to match. Working with the Provost’s Office gave me insight into just how much planning, care, and funding goes into running a university. I learned about how Temple supports its schools, how much thought goes into programs like Fly in 4, and how deeply the university cares about helping students graduate on time. If they can’t? Temple has systems in place to help them cover those costs. That’s not just good PR that’s real support. What surprised me the most was how different it felt writing for Temple compared to a more playful or trend-focused brand. The tone had to be professional, clear, and strategic but still engaging. It really challenged me to grow as a writer, and I realized I enjoy that kind of balance. It’s what sparked my growing interest in pursuing copywriting full-time, especially in spaces where creative messaging and strategy go hand in hand like advertising.
Throughout my internship, I met people who inspired me with their dedication, work ethic, and passion for students. And unlike what I expected, I wasn’t doing surface-level intern tasks. I got to take on real projects that had meaning, deadlines, and actual impact. If I could change one thing, I’d ask more questions, sit in on even more meetings, and soak up every second I could.
To anyone out there starting their first internship, here’s what I’d say: be open to everything. Say yes to learning opportunities, even if they feel intimidating. Ask questions. Don’t be afraid to bring your voice to the table you’re there for a reason. In the end, I walked away with more than just writing samples. I left with stronger communication skills, real-world writing experience, and a clearer vision of what I want my career to look like. This internship wasn’t just a stepping stone it was a launchpad. Thanks, Temple, for giving me a place to grow, create, and discover just how far words can go.
