The Little Dawgs

Mascot Handler for 2024-2025 is open.

Gardner-Webb is hiring a Social Media Intern in support of Gardner-Webb Social Media and the GWU Live Mascot – Bo the Bulldog.

Internship Job Description

Job Purpose

The Social Media Intern is a member of the Web & Digital Communications team who supports the strategic initiatives of Gardner-Webb University’s Digital Marketing Team through assisting with the design and execution of social media campaigns, creating weekly and monthly editorial calendars to promote company and brand values across top-level social media platforms, track social media engagement to identify high-performing ideas and campaigns for scalability, and support the marketing team at live and online events.

Other duties include working with Marketing on the Live Mascot Program through coordinating and managing mascot appearances, as well as leading the content creation, videography, photography, and digital storytelling of The University’s official Live Mascot.

Applicants must be currently enrolled at Gardner-Webb and able to commit a minimum of one academic year to the program. Previous experience with live animals and working with people of all ages at large and small-scale events is preferred, and students from all majors may apply.

This position’s mission is to actively promote Gardner-Webb through working with the Live Mascot and university constituents, while upholding the values, ethics and traditions of GWU.

Skill Requirements

  • Must be highly motivated, creative, self-starter with excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Must be a positive leader and ambassador of Gardner-Webb University
  • Must have an understanding of digital media and content creation on the following platforms including, but not limited to TikTok, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook.
  • Most have strong headline and caption writing skills
  • Must have a knowledgeable foundation and understanding of designing appropriate social media marketing and communication best practices
  • Must be organized and timely in responding to emails and schedule requests

Expectations

  • Develop visually appealing and informative content for top level accounts for The University and for The University mascot
  • As a team member and collaborator, work with and communicate with other departments, groups and people across campus to curate content
  • Pitch unique social ideas/concepts and provide feedback on social content produced by the team
  • Add content to and manage social media calendar
  • Explore ways to leverage social media analytics to expand reach and better tailor content to the diverse audiences the Gardner-Webb community
  • Guide content strategy for The University Mascot official accounts
  • Manage the live mascot’s schedule of appearance and accompany mascot to events.
  • Stay updated on social media trends and best practices to make recommendations for enhancing our social media presence
  • Research other schools, companies, and brands to assess current social media trends and share with team to maintain relevant content
  • Engage with the online and in-person community, respond to inquiries, and foster positive interactions
  • Must have a valid driver’s license and clean driving record; Access to own vehicle is preferred.

Commitment

All candidates will be expected to work a 10 hour weekly average, inclusive of all assigned duties.

  • Attendance at 1-2 events per week throughout the academic year.
  • Ability to balance a demanding schedule that includes working days, nights, weekends (including holidays), multi-day travel and class schedules

Benefits

  • Interns can receive academic credit or a stipend.
  • Cost of gas and per diem will be provided for travel to appearances and games (if applicable)
  • Attire (polos, t-shirts, shoes etc.)
  • Additional honorarium based on appearances
  • Additional gas/travel expenses can be reimbursed when receipt is provided

Direct Reports

  • N/A

How to Apply?

If you are interested, please email Theandra Thompson including a video as to why you are interested and a great fit for the position.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.