The Advertising Internship
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Job Description
About RPA
RPA is an independent advertising agency headquartered in Santa Monica, California, that prioritizes a “People First” philosophy. This means creating impactful work for brands that value people, with a team that is empowered and treated with respect. RPA fosters a bold, creative, and collaborative culture, recognized as one of AdAge’s “Best Places to Work.” The agency encourages its employees to think big, act boldly, and be their most authentic selves.
The Advertising Internship Program (Fall 2025)
RPA’s internship program, “The Advertising Internship,” aims to provide a career-launching experience, going beyond a typical resume builder. Interns will engage in real work for real brands, contributing to the agency’s creative and collaborative environment. The program focuses on three key pillars: connection, preparation, and education. The application process is designed to get to know candidates as individuals, using virtual phone screens and other technologies to facilitate genuine conversations.
Program Highlights:
• Reimagined Experience: The program emphasizes getting to know candidates, preparing them for success, and educating them about career paths in advertising.
• RPA Prep Bootcamp: Candidates participate in a bootcamp to learn how to stand out, understand career options, create a bio video, improve interview skills, network with RPA employees, and receive 1:1 time with a recruiter.
• Team Connections: Interns connect with up to two teams actively seeking interns for the Fall 2025 semester.
• Real Work: Interns will work on real brands and projects, gaining valuable experience in the advertising industry.
• Development of Early Career Talent: RPA is known for its success in developing early-career talent.
Important Details:
• Dates: Monday, September 15th – Friday, December 12th, 2025.
• Location: Santa Monica HQ – Flexible Remote/Hybrid Environment
• Duration: 18-21 hours/week (minimum), Monday – Friday, 9 am-5 pm PST
• Application Deadline: Applications will be accepted until 200 completed phone screen applications are received.
• Pay: $18.00/hour (Non-Negotiable)
Available Departments:
• Strategic Planning: Ideal for candidates who love writing, insights, cultural trends, and note-taking.
• Marketing Intelligence (Analytics): A data-driven role for those who enjoy making data fashionable and providing evidence-based insights.
• Production (Art, Digital and Video): Focuses on striving for perfection, team support, and balancing multiple projects.
• Media (Strategy, Ad Ops, Buying, Paid Search/Social, Programmatic): Suitable for media enthusiasts who are up-to-date with trends and proficient in Excel.
• Experience and Product Strategy: For individuals passionate about spotting social media trends, cultural moments, and digital experiences.
• Account Management: Requires strong presentation and customer service skills, as well as the ability to build relationships and stay organized.
• Behavioral Science: Turning psychology into strategy by creating campaigns that resonate while keeping an eye on cultural trends.
• Public Relations: Telling stories that make waves by creating messages that get people talking while keeping up with trends.
Recruitment Timeline:
• Application Start: June 18th.
• Virtual Phone Interviews: Starting February 10th, until 200 qualified applicants are received.
• Finalist Selection: 50 finalists selected for Prep Bootcamp.
• Prep Bootcamp: July 14th to July 25th.
• Final Round Interviews: Early to late April.
• Decisions Communicated: Week of August 11th.
• Feedback (if requested): September 2025.
Application Preparation:
Candidates should prepare stories centered around:
• Emotional Intelligence
• Curiosity
• Accountability
• Collaboration
• Adaptability
