The Summer Internship Program 2004 is a training opportunity for American University of Cairo students to get hands-on experience in the work field, usually associated with their major and/or interests. They must go through the same process as if they are searching for a job after graduation, including the application and resume, job interview and acceptance to a company position.

ASPECT Advertising chose to participate in SIP, and this year accepted 8 interns to work for 2 months. The interns were divided into two groups, in which they created their own “agency” with a mission, name and logo. Throughout the program, they compete with each other to land a specific campaign. The interns are required to learn the theory of advertising and marketing and apply it practically in their assignments.

Interns participate in presentations, meetings and field trips to and with ASPECT’s clients; they conduct market research and evaluations on some of the agency’s clients, including Canon and MENA Garden City; and finally, they will develop a campaign proposal. Other activities include exercises in developing ad headlines, storyboards and slogans, and strategic plans for a product.

SIP 2004 in ASPECT has mutual benefits. Interns gain and develop skills in creativity, communication, writing, persuasion and research – to name a few. ASPECT acquires a fresh, new perspective in their work as well as preview of future employees in the field.