LSU Extension Associate Ag Center interview questions

The timeline was going well at first, applied online, heard back about 3 weeks later, supplied reference letters and transcript, was given options for interview times. All this via email. Then the problem. They wanted me to complete an assignment before the very first interview that was basically creating a marketing strategy outline for the program including a social media strategy and graphics for which they even sent me the logos to use. They asked I submit the materials to the HM before the interview via pdf as well. I don’t mind doing writing assignments but I have a portfolio for a reason. It felt very unprofessional and inconsiderate to ask for unpaid work out of people who they haven’t even met, much less discussed salary with. Not sure if this is standard procedure as I don’t see any mention of it in any other reviews but it definitely needs to be addressed.