Have you ever considered why having effective cross-cultural and cross-linguistic communication is so vital? From an international perspective, English is a global language spoken worldwide, and its proficiency is crucial for education, career opportunities, and personal growth. This summer, I was able to put my cross-cultural communication skills to use at my internship with iTEP, and I can’t wait to tell you all about it.

My name is Quinci Cartmell, and I am an incoming senior majoring in Communication Studies with a minor in Visual Journalism. My passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion, coupled with a deep interest in understanding different cultures, led me to an incredible opportunity as a Global Communications Intern with iTEP International. “iTEP,” short for ‘International Test of English Proficiency,’ is a company dedicated to delivering innovative online English language assessments for academic and professional environments worldwide.

My designated spot in-office at iTEP International

During my internship, I worked both in-person and remotely, undertaking various tasks that expanded my marketing knowledge through a global perspective. For instance, I discovered how seemingly minor language nuances can significantly affect non-English speakers’ engagement and comprehension on a website. One of my primary responsibilities was to evaluate iTEP’s website user experience, assessing its design and functionality to ensure it was intuitive and accessible. I provided actionable feedback to enhance the overall user experience.

In addition to website evaluation, I was involved in lead generation. This task required identifying potential agency partners for iTEP International by collecting and analyzing data from platforms like SignalHire and LinkedIn. This experience underscored the importance of thorough research and persistence in finding qualified leads. Blog writing was another significant aspect of my role. I created engaging content aimed at ESL readers, enhancing my writing skills while supporting the company’s content marketing efforts with effective SEO strategies. 

A highlight of my internship was my impact on iTEP International’s digital presence and outreach. I contributed to revamping outdated presentations using the latest brand guidelines, making them more appealing to current and potential agency partners. Additionally, I played a pivotal role in establishing iTEP’s TikTok account. By researching competitors and developing a list of content suggestions tailored to ESL learners, I helped the company tap into TikTok’s vast user base. This strategic move increased iTEP’s visibility and expanded its global reach.  

My academic coursework with the School of Communication played a crucial role in preparing me for my internship. Specifically, Communication in the Global Workplace (COM411) with Dr. Bejerano and Marketing Through the Communication Lens (SCC305) with Professor Udziela provided me with the foundational knowledge I applied throughout my internship. COM411 deepened my understanding of cross-cultural communication and the nuances involved in interacting within a global environment. SCC305 offered me a comprehensive view of market trends, an understanding of audience behavior, and of the crafting of compelling messages that resonate with different target demographics. The two courses enhanced my ability to contribute meaningfully to iTEP International’s mission of facilitating effective communication across cultures and languages.

Overall, my time as a Global Communications Intern at iTEP International was incredibly fulfilling. I am deeply grateful to the iTEP team who I worked with directly and remotely, especially my supervisor, the marketing coordinator, for their guidance and support. This internship provided me with valuable skills that will benefit my future career. I am thankful for the opportunity to contribute to iTEP’s mission of fostering effective communication across cultures and languages.

For those interested in the communications field, specifically marketing, my advice is to adopt a global perspective. Consider how your content can engage an international audience from diverse cultural backgrounds. How can you ensure that your messaging resonates with and retains the interest of global visitors? Just a thought!

iTEP International Team at Canoga Park, CA headquarters