Ten years ago I would have rattled off the five largest agencies in New York. Students are well advised to look for employment at smaller agencies to find more opportunity to learn and contribute. Larger agencies are more bureaucratic and regimented - it is more difficult to make a mark and to be recognized. Undoubtedly, the Internet. Interactive marketing is growing faster than talent can be recruited.
Internships are the best way to attract the attention of a decision maker.
Many resumes pass my desk of people just out of school - those that rise to the top tout internships with companies I know and respect. Also, we've hired a fair number of interns upon graduation. It does matter. During the interview, I'm looking for a sense of passion and fearlessness. The candidate needs to be articulate, well read and mature.