Alex Giesel, a recent graduate of the University of Minnesota has joined Rapp Strategies Inc. as an intern for summer 2023.

Alex has already begun sharpening his communications skills as he works with the RSI team on various projects, including research, data analysis, media planning and policy analysis.

“I am thrilled to be given an amazing opportunity to be an intern at Rapp Strategies,” Alex says. “Being able to use this chance to blossom my professional career in communications while generating value for clients is a blessing for me.”

Prior to his internship with Rapp Strategies, Alex was a communications administrative assistant for the Charles Babbage Institute at the University of Minnesota. There, he worked on various projects such as research, writing articles and updating the department’s websites with topics ranging from the very first computer to artificial intelligence.

What are you most looking forward to at Rapp Strategies?

At Rapp Strategies, I am most looking forward to developing my knowledge of the communications profession from the experienced team.

What career or professional opportunities do you hope to pursue in the future?

I hope to pursue something in the field of communications whether it be strategic, advertising/marketing, or public relations. My ultimate goal is to be in a position to assist organizations in advancing and achieving their objectives.

What has been your favorite professional experience?

In my past position, I helped plan and host a 200–300-person symposium about the politics and culture of digital automation – everything from developing the invite list to creating flyers, posters and other marketing materials. The most satisfying part was watching the symposium and seeing how it all came together successfully.

When you’re not working, what can you be found doing?

Just about anything related to the outdoors. I find a lot of enjoyment in hiking, biking, rollerblading, swimming, and playing tennis, frisbee and football. I’m a diehard sports fan so you will find me watching and attending sporting events, primarily hockey and football. One of my favorite sports memories was being at U.S. Bank Stadium for the Vikings comeback against the Indianapolis Colts which was the biggest comeback in NFL history (33 points).

What is one thing about you few people know?

I have been struck by lightning…sort of. On my way home from a cabin trip, during a violent storm, the car I was in was struck by lightning. By far one of the most terrifying things to happen to me.

What is the best advice you have ever received?

Take criticism as fuel to better yourself.

Who is your biggest role model/mentor?

My late mother. She was the most passionate, caring, hardworking individual I have ever encountered. There was not one person that my mom met that she didn’t make an impact on.

If you could meet anyone, living or dead, who would you meet?

Donald Glover, he is the renaissance man of entertainment in my eyes.

What is the best place you’ve traveled to and why?

Tucson, AZ. It was the beginning of March, so the weather was absolutely gorgeous, and there were no giant snakes or spiders I had to flee from. Hiking through mountains and valleys, trying all sorts of new food and seeing the vivacious nightlife of Tucson was something I’ll never forget. I also found a passion for playing tennis while I was there!