INTERNSHIP SPOTLIGHT: Chen Guo (ARAD ’25) ON HER SUMMER INTERNSHIP AT CELINE

This fall, we’re thrilled to spotlight Chen Guo (ARAD ’25) about her recent internship as Public Relations Intern at CELINE in Shanghai. During her time at CELINE, Chen gained invaluable experience in the fashion management, handling everything from cataloging new collections to coordinating customs and tracking CELINE’s features in top fashion magazines.
Let’s dive into her experience and the unique work she contributed during her time at CELINE!

Could you provide an overview of your current internship and the organization you are working with?

This past summer, I worked as a Public Relations Intern at CELINE in Shanghai. My responsibilities included sample management, global logistics, event coordination, and media outreach, which allowed me to gain valuable hands-on experience in various aspects of PR. This experience gave me a deeper understanding of how PR functions as a vital component within the larger fashion industry. 

What does a typical day look like during your internship?

Each day, I manage PR sample logistics, handling both incoming and outgoing pieces. This includes cataloging new season samples in our digital system, creating sample lists, and checking the condition of returned items from magazine shoots or events. I also assist with customs coordination for imports and monitor print media coverage of our brand, tagging relevant features in magazines for internal review.

Based on your experience, what guidance would you offer our students seeking internships in the related organization?

My advice for anyone who is looking to work in this field would be to not be afraid to try new positions if you’re interested. It’s completely fine if you don’t have any prior experience as an intern, don’t feel intimidated. Just ask questions and be brave enough to take on tasks outside of your comfort zone. Stepping into unfamiliar roles can be exciting, and you’ll often find yourself growing in ways you didn’t expect.

How has this internship shaped your understanding of the art industry, and what skills have you found most valuable?

This internship has given me a much clearer understanding of the meticulous behind-the-scenes work that drives successful fashion PR operations, like what goes into organizing a magazine cover shoot. There are countless steps involved, with back-and-forth communication between our team, stylists, photographers, other collaborators, and our headquarters to confirm details. I also supported two store openings in Hangzhou and Hong Kong, where we coordinated with the press, KOLs, and celebrities while preparing gifts and samples. These experiences have taught me the importance of precision and organization, with being detail-oriented as one of the most valuable skills in ensuring everything runs smoothly.