A Fresh POV on Working in Public Relations: Q&A With Grasslands' Cannabis PR Intern Andre Hascall

“I honestly couldn’t think of a better internship for me to be in”

In June 2021, Grasslands launched our new Diversity-in-Marketing internship program. Now, at the conclusion of a 12-week run, we’re happy to report that this year’s internships were a tremendous success for both our interns and our entire team. 

This paid internship program is part of our Indigenous-owned agency’s commitment to attract, develop and retain diverse, high-potential early-career marcom talent. 

Our Founder and CEO, Ricardo Baca, started his 20-year career in journalism with an internship that offered valuable opportunities for professional development, and this is our agency’s way of paying it forward. He recognizes the challenges of forging a career path out of school and the value of having a head start in developing a professional network and learning exactly what it’s like to work at a fast-paced agency. 

Here, Grasslands Public Relations Intern Andre Hascall tells us about his experience, what he learned and how the internship helped launch him into full-time PR work at Grasslands.

Visit our Careers page to learn more about open positions at Grasslands and the Diversity-in-Marketing internship program

What’s your biggest takeaway from your internship?

The best way I can describe my time as an intern is it was mutually beneficial. I was able to contribute to the team more than I initially thought I could. All of my colleagues have been great at helping me along the way with feedback in real time, which I am very appreciative of. Overall, I picked up and honed skills that will advance me throughout my public relations career.

What was the most meaningful work you did during this internship?

It’s difficult to choose anything specific as I enjoyed working with multiple accounts. However, one moment that sticks out to me is when I secured an opportunity in Politico for one of my clients. 

What did you learn from this internship?

I learned how communication works in an agency, both internally and externally. How to properly build media lists as well as the development and distribution of pitches. In my time at Grasslands I’ve noticed my writing skills have improved and my ability to talk about the cannabis industry as a whole has grown. 

What did you contribute during this internship?

I was able to contribute in multiple ways, such as communicating with journalists to coordinate media opportunities. I added original ideas to communications strategies for some of our clients. I kept my accounts running smoothly when account leads were on short vacations. Overall, I did just about everything in account support while I interned.

Is there anything you would change about the internship?

I honestly couldn’t think of a better internship for me to be in. The company seemed like a perfect match, with my journalism degree and my interests in the cannabis industry. I learned a lot and was able to contribute every day. I wouldn’t change a thing.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

I feel like five years will be here in no time, but I think I could still be working at Grasslands and if not, I expect to be working on starting my own agency. I always entertain the idea of having a sports & culture podcast as a side hustle.

How has this internship helped shape your professional goals?

I was immediately intrigued once I learned about public relations in cannabis. During this internship I learned so much about the industry and the growth trajectory it is on. I wouldn’t want to be a part of another industry after learning all that I have and the current state of cannabis in politics. I thought of being my own boss one day, and this internship has helped me find my niche in public relations.

What’s next for you after this internship?

I am accepting a full-time position as an account coordinator at Grasslands.  I love the atmosphere at the company and the city of Denver; this is the perfect place for me to kick off my public relations career.