They say that smiling is infectious, and I found that to be true as I interviewed Theo Clapp about his internship experience.
Clapp is a senior Music major and Business minor who was told of an internship opportunity working with ‘Stache Media. He never would have thought that working with ‘Stache Media would be in his future.‘Stache Media is a full-service marketing agency specialized in music that operates out of RED, an award-winning division of Song Music entertainment. Clapp has become a ‘Stache lifestyle representative, which means he promotes albums and tours as well as writes reports on artists and the promotion. This internship has provided Clapp with valuable experience and tools including promoting and social media marketing. It’s been helpful for Clapp to have had this first-hand experience. Clapp’s internship has also expanded his social connections, and he’s really enjoyed his time with ‘Stache so far. “Oh, I love it,” said Clapp, “I’ve made great connections around the Portland area.” He says his internship has come with a few perks too, like, free concerts and albums.
Clapp applied even though he did not think he would get it. He said his best advice to students looking for internships is to apply even if you don’t think you’ll get it. Clapp advises, “Put yourself out there, and talk to your advisor.”
When asked about his best experience with ‘Stache, Clapp recalls two specific experiences. The first included promoting Glassnote Records as part of artist Childish Gambino’s tour, where afterwards the founder of Glassnote personally thanked Clapp for his contribution. The second shared was his first day of interning when he was assigned to deliver a bottle of Champagne to the band Chvches. “They basically asked me, ‘hey do you want to bring this bottle of champagne to them?’” Clapp said, “And I was like ‘yeah!’” Clapp was excited to meet a band he admired, and it made for a thrilling first day on the job.
Clapp mentioned that the work he does is “not all fun,” as he emptied his bag of reports, posters, CDs, and event cards onto the table. His internship keeps him busy writing reports for approximately 5-6 hours per week depending on the number of artists. Clapp says, “It’s also hard to get excited about artists you don’t personally like, but it’s a fun challenge to force yourself to get excited.” When asked if this internship has expanded his musical taste, Clapp says, “I appreciate some country [music] now.”
Clapp has applied for Graduate school and hopes to further his education in both Business and Music. He also hopes to continue his work with RED ‘Stache Media.
Story by Terran Benedict