By: Renee Radzom, DePaul University graduate, former University Internship Program (UIP) assistant

Gettin’ real with Runway Division Director Bridget Halanski of Factor Model Management. In this employer spotlight post, get an inside look at what it would be like to intern with a talent agency.

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to be in the entertainment industry and a “business of people,” an internship with Factor Model Management may be a good fit for you.

Bridget Halanski, director of Runway Division at Factor, said, “analytical brains need to think creatively since there is no science to what we do; It’s subjective.” Bridget also said that their interns must really “be able to multi-task and jump into a variety of projects.”

At Factor, Bridget emphasizes that interns get a close-up look at the daily life of a talent agent. Since Factor is a boutique agency, the interns have a hands-on experience. Day-to-day tasks include helping with the reception desk (Bridget believes this is one of the most difficult jobs an intern will encounter, due to organization and directing important calls to their specific destinations at three different offices in Chicago, Atlanta and NYC), dressing models backstage at shows, assisting with model searches/scouting events, social media management, and all around organization at the agency. Interns normally work 2-3 days a week, so he or she must stay in contact when out of the office.

Interns get a close-up look at the daily life of a talent agent.

An internship at Factor is much more than college credit and experience in the fashion industry, it’s creating a network of close friends and contacts for the future. Bridget said that one of the most rewarding aspects of a Factor internship is the relationships that the intern builds with clients and fellow staff members. She went on to mention, “We keep in touch with former interns and always pass on job opportunities if we hear of a company hiring. A few former interns are now my clients working for PR firms; it’s great when they are able to call me to book talent for a project!”

The fashion industry in particular is not always as glamorous as television and films portray, but there are a lot of rewarding moments that you get from working so closely with people. Bridget stated that they’re not always out to lunch with models or attending big events; “We really are at our computers most of the time catering to our clients,” she said.

Now, if this all seems interesting, there are a few tips that Bridget shared when looking for an internship or job in the entertainment industry:

1. The most important thing that she noted was that interns must be themselves and think on their feet!
2. Bridget also mentioned that doing some research on the company beforehand is always helpful. Interviewers everywhere want to see that you know something about the company that you’re applying for. Do your research! For instance, Factor Model Management is formally Elite Chicago, and the owner, Jane Stewart, discovered Supermodel Cindy Crawford!
3. In regards to the fashion industry, Bridget mentioned that it’s always great to know a few of the current top models and brush up on entertainment news so that you are able to talk about current and upcoming events during your interview.

Inspired and interested in finding a job or internship in the fashion, entertainment industry? Check out Handshake for new career listings!