A Summer of Growth at Delta Air Lines
My time at Delta Air Lines has been characterized by learning, building relationships, trying new things, and of course, traveling. This summer, I am working on the Global Communications team at Delta, where I support projects for the Delta Flight Museum. With 2025 marking the 100th anniversary of Delta Air Lines, it has been an exciting and meaningful time to be part of their communications team. It is safe to say this has been a great summer for public relations.
The Delta Flight Museum recently completed a major renovation to celebrate both the airline’s centennial and the museum’s 30th anniversary. Their two historic hangars now feature updated exhibits, a new children’s section and interactive experiences that bring Delta’s history and innovation to life. As an intern, I played a role in helping the museum reach three key audiences: new employees, current employees, and retired employees or Delta alumni.
To support this effort, I learned how to develop and execute communications plans aligning with Delta’s brand and mission. I have written content for internal and external platforms, assisted with event planning and execution and contributed to strategies that enhance employee engagement. Representing a global brand like Delta has taught me how to communicate with clarity, purpose and professionalism.
Beyond my work with the museum, I’ve had the opportunity to explore Delta’s broader operations. Alongside other interns, I toured the Operations Control Center, Technical Operations, Wheels Up and Airport Customer Service. These experiences gave me a deeper understanding of how Delta functions as a global airline and how each department plays a critical role in delivering a seamless travel experience.
While I have grown professionally, I have also enjoyed many personal and memorable experiences. I have met with professionals across the company who generously shared their time and advice. I have built friendships with fellow interns who come from diverse backgrounds and bring unique perspectives. I have also had the chance to travel to new places, which has been both fun and inspiring. Each day has brought new lessons which have helped me reflect on my goals and shape my vision for the future.
This internship has challenged me to step outside my comfort zone, take initiative and embrace new opportunities. I gained confidence in my abilities as well as a clearer sense of the kind of professional I want to become. I believe my horizons have expanded, and I now carry a stronger skill set and broader perspective.
Earning this internship was not easy, but I encourage anyone interested in the aviation industry to pursue opportunities like this one. If I could offer a few pieces of advice, they would be:
- Be yourself. Authenticity matters, especially in public relations. Your personal brand should reflect who you are, not who you think others want you to be.
- Do your research. Learn about the company’s mission and values. Understanding how a company operates and what it stands for will help you connect with its culture and contribute meaningfully.
- Do not be afraid to fail. Internships are designed for learning. Take risks, try new things and know that mistakes are part of the process. What matters most is how you grow from them.
Interning at Delta Air Lines has been a dream come true. I know that sounds cliché, but it’s true. One of the most important lessons I will take with me is the phrase “Keep Climbing.” It is more than a slogan. It is a mindset. I will keep climbing toward new goals, new heights and a brighter future. As I return to the University of Georgia for my senior year, I will carry this experience with me and continue to grow, both personally and professionally.
Autobiography: Riley Mason is a senior at the University of Georgia, graduating with a degree in advertising and a minor in ecology. She works at a creative agency in Athens, EXTRA, directing account management and business development. She enjoys running in the mornings and spending the evenings lost in a book. Connect with her on LinkedIn!
