Illinois Brand Training for Interns

Illinois Brand Training for Interns

The Illinois Brand Training for Interns program offers a unique opportunity for campus marketing and communications interns to gain hands-on experience with the university’s brand strategy and guidelines. Designed to develop skilled brand ambassadors, this program helps interns build foundational expertise in communications, marketing, and brand stewardship.

Please note: Interns do not apply directly. Chief communications officers must nominate their interns to participate in the program.

This training also supports campus units by fostering brand consistency and empowering interns to effectively represent the Illinois brand in their day-to-day work.

Program Structure

The Illinois Brand Training for Interns program offers a blend of asynchronous and live trainings to ensure a flexible and thorough learning experience: 

1. Brand Experts Training Program: Interns will complete a series of asynchronous Canvas workshops covering foundational aspects of the Illinois brand. 
2. Brand Ambassador Workshop: This 90-minute live session teaches students how to live out the brand pillars in their work while equipping them to share the power of a unified brand with their colleagues and unit stakeholders. The workshop is engaging, interactive and a fun way to meet peers across the university. It is also a requirement for the Brand Experts program.  
3. Best Practices Guide: Produced by StratCom, this guide covers essential topics, such as proper usage of the university’s name, how to represent the university effectively, communication best practices and an overview of the university’s organizational structure.

Training Modules

Interns will complete the following training modules: 

• Brand Essentials: Covers the foundational elements of the Illinois brand, including the brand promise, pillars, personality, voice and tone. Interns will learn to craft messages that align with these elements.

• Specialized Tracks: Interns can choose to delve deeper into areas of interest, including: 
  • Design 
  • Web 
  • Content Creation 
  • Social Media and Ads 
  • Video and Photography 
  • Email Marketing 

These tracks provide specialized skills, tailoring the learning experience to career goals. 

Program Commitment

Participants are expected to dedicate 5-10 hours to complete the program, including both asynchronous workshops and the live Brand Ambassador Workshop. The flexible nature allows interns to manage their time effectively while gaining valuable skills.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion, interns will: 

• Understand the Illinois brand and its key components. 
• Apply communications and marketing principles that leverage the Illinois brand through messaging, visual and strategic elements. 
• Earn Accredible badges showcasing their expertise in brand strategies on LinkedIn. 
• Be prepared to assist campus units with marketing and communications efforts, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative ideas.