Discovery Blog

At Discovery, we’re fortunate to welcome a new class of enthusiastic and talented interns into our offices around the world three times a year, working across our brands and businesses. Well, one of those interns, Matt Higgins, recently approached us to talk about our blog — little did he know that his initiative would turn into a post about him!

Matt, based in our New York office, is currently interning with the Animal Planet Communications team. A rising senior at the University of Pittsburgh‘s School of Business, he comes to Discovery with cable industry and communications internship experience — a perfect combo for his current role. Putting aside our Big East rivalry, I took the time to find out more about Matt and his time at Discovery:

Higgins

What prompted you to apply for an internship at Discovery Communications?
I’ve always wanted to work in a position that was both fun and had a positive effect on people’s lives. At my internship last summer, I sat in on a Discovery Communications presentation and was immediately hooked. I soon began filling the presenter’s mailbox with emails and, ultimately, I applied and was accepted as an intern. It’s great to tell people where I work and to see the excitement in their faces. I’m also proud of the fact that our shows have a strong message and influence positive change in the world.

You are working with the Animal Planet U.S. Communications team this summer. What does a typical day look like for you?
There really isn’t a typical day at Animal Planet! Sure there are things I do on a daily basis, but every day brings new challenges; some are more surprising than others. The environment here is fun and relaxed, resulting in a great creative atmosphere. I’ve had the opportunity to work on communications strategies for Animal Planet’s series and my internship has given me incredible experiences that I will use in my future career. It is definitely worth the 90-minute commute from Philadelphia to New York City!

Any highlights to your internship experience so far?
Besides being a part of remarkable projects like Blood Dolphins, Whale Wars and River Monsters, being in the New York office has afforded me the opportunity to interact with talent. One highlight thus far was getting “punked” by Shorty Rossi. It’s not every day that the Pit Boss comes to your desk to pull a prank on you with cameras behind him. (I’m still hoping the video doesn’t go viral!)

What are your favorite Discovery shows? And, if we were to make a show about interning at Discovery, what do you think it would be called?
I am always watching Discovery so this is a hard question to answer.  My favorite shows are Little People, Big World, Cash Cab and Man vs. Wild.  I’m also a fan of Planet Earth and Animal Planet’s upcoming Blood Dolphins.  I watch too much TV!

I think a show about interns is a great idea, clearly.  How about Interns of Animal Planet: Surprisingly Awesome?

If we Google you in 10 years’ time, what do you think we will find out that you’re doing?
I don’t like to limit myself to a specific answer in questions like this (a cop out,  I know!). However, I do know I will be successful at whatever I choose to do.  I’m ambitious and always looking to improve myself. With interests in communications, marketing, politics and entertainment, I will be working in one or more of these areas in some form.  One thing I do know is that I’d like to start my own philanthropic organization. It’s important to help others and something I enjoy doing!

For more information about Discovery’s internship program (and job opportunities) around the world, please visit careers.discovery.com.