Beyond the Bracket: The Public Relations Magic of March Madness

By: Lauren Stansburry

The roar of the crowd, the squeak of sneakers, and the heart-stopping buzzer-beaters – March Madness is upon us! However, beyond the thrilling on-court action lies a strategic game of public relations (PR), a masterclass in narrative control and audience engagement. As the 2025 tournament approaches, it is essential to explore the PR strategies that have transformed this event into a cultural phenomenon.

Every year, March Madness delivers captivating Cinderella stories—underdogs who defy expectations and capture the nation’s imagination. One of the most iconic moments in NCAA history occurred in 2018 when the UMBC Retrievers, a 16-seed, stunned the Virginia Cavaliers, the tournament’s top overall seed, with a dominant 74–54 victory. This historic upset was not only a basketball triumph but also a PR success. The UMBC public relations team capitalized on the moment by showcasing their university on a national stage. They leveraged the “David versus Goliath” storyline, crafting press releases, scheduling media interviews, and engaging fans on social media platforms. This strategy amplified UMBC’s visibility, increased applications, and bolstered alumni pride, hallmarks of effective PR.

These Cinderella stories are PR gold. Smaller schools, often overlooked, seize the national spotlight and use it to craft narratives that resonate deeply with audiences. The emotional appeal of the underdog’s journey taps into society's collective love for stories of perseverance and triumph. PR professionals amplify this momentum, engaging alumni, driving fundraising efforts, and elevating the school’s brand.

March Madness is more than just the games, it is an immersive experience. Bracketology transforms fans into armchair analysts, sparking friendly rivalries and endless debates. Office pools, group chats, and casual bets enhance the communal aspect of the tournament, making it a PR dream. Teams and media outlets capitalize on this by creating shareable content, interactive polls, and social media contests. Sustained buzz is achieved through hashtag campaigns, trending topics, and engaging conversations. PR professionals monitor these discussions, strategically inserting brands into the conversation to maximize visibility.

The tournament’s extensive reach is powered by a symphony of media networks such as CBS, TNT, TBS, TruTV, and ESPN. These networks do more than broadcast games, they craft narratives that captivate millions of viewers. Production teams spotlight key players, delve into emotional backstories, and deliver drama that feels personal and engaging. Cross-promotion and social media integration amplify the tournament’s buzz, while digital platforms and streaming services cater to modern viewing habits. Advertisers eager to tap into this vast audience partner with networks, creating a symbiotic relationship in which PR efforts ensure seamless brand representation.

March Madness also offers opportunities for brands beyond the basketball court. Major sponsors, such as Coca-Cola, Capital One, and Nike, align themselves with the tournament to boost visibility and foster positive brand associations. These companies use PR campaigns to reinforce their connection to the excitement and camaraderie of March Madness, launching commercials, social media campaigns, and experiential marketing efforts that resonate with fans .

For aspiring PR professionals, March Madness offers invaluable lessons. The power of storytelling is evident in Cinderella runs and individual player narratives. Social media mastery is essential for engaging audiences and driving conversations. Strong media relationships are crucial for securing coverage and maximizing exposure. Additionally, the high-stakes environment underscores the importance of crisis communication skills, as PR teams must be prepared to manage unexpected situations. Finally, data analysis plays a vital role in measuring the success of PR efforts and refining strategies for future campaigns.

As the anticipation builds for March Madness 2025, it is clear that PR is at the heart of this cultural phenomenon. From crafting compelling narratives to engaging audiences across platforms, PR professionals play a pivotal role in shaping the tournament’s legacy. The lessons learned from March Madness inspire creativity, adaptability, and an appreciation for storytelling in PR careers.

Reflecting on My First Event

By: Teagan Kazim

When I first joined the Integrative Public Relations program and began thinking of what my career would look like one of the aspects that piqued my interest was the opportunity to plan and execute my own events. Maybe it was movies like The Devil Wears Prada or shows like Emily in Paris that made the job seem glamorous. Still, there was something about creating an amazing night from nothing that seemed almost magical.  

This is why when I joined PRSSA’s Bateman Case Study Competition this year I eagerly volunteered to be the event planner. Our client was EveryLibrary, an organization that fights book bans and secures funding and support for libraries. This was a topic I not only knew a lot about but was also incredibly passionate about.  

When it came to the actual event planning there were a couple of things I learned immediately. One of those is the need to be flexible, your best ideas are rarely your first, and being open to that change can improve your event immensely. Another is the importance of understanding your target audience and being able to craft an experience they will enjoy and seek out. The success of your event is, unfortunately, not dependent on how much you liked it but on how much the attendees did. Finally, there is the workload. Of course, I anticipated it to be large when I took on the role but it exceeded even my expectations. For an event that lasted an hour and a half, I likely spent 30 hours working on it, preparing the materials, shopping, planning, etc. 

The last bit of event planning I want to touch on is the day of. From the moment I opened my eyes at 8 a.m. to when the event started at 6 p.m., it was all I thought about. The day was spent running all the last-minute errands, checking in with my team, and making list after list to ensure everything was accounted for.  

It was crazy and stressful, but it was also one of the most exciting and rewarding things I’ve done. Looking out at the setup and decorated room, watching people spill into the venue, engaging with them, being thanked for our work, it all invoked a sense of pride and accomplishment different from anything else. So yes, it is a lot more work than the shows or movies will have you believe. But it is just as exciting, rewarding, and at times glamorous, as they make it seem. 

Raising Voices and Awareness: Women Lead the Way in Super Bowl 2025 Ads

By: Lauren Stansburry

Whether you're a die-hard football fan or just there for the vibes, Super Bowl commercials are an iconic tradition. With 127 million viewers tuning in this year, brands had the ultimate stage to make an impact. Sixty-seven ads aired, ranging from 15 seconds to a whopping 143 seconds, with the average spot lasting 46.13 seconds. With a price tag of $8 million for a 30-second slot, brands had to be strategic in their messaging and engaging their audience.

This year's standout was a one-minute PSA for breast cancer awareness, featuring comedian Wanda Sykes. What started as a lighthearted ad quickly pivoted to a serious message, urging women to get screened. With over six million women watching, the campaign effectively leveraged the Super Bowl’s massive audience to raise awareness and drive action. Directed to YourAttentionPlease.com, a Novartis-sponsored screening resource, the ad’s goal was clear: save lives through increased screenings.

From a public relations perspective, the campaign was a masterclass in cause marketing. By combining humor with a life-saving message, it avoided PSA fatigue and kept viewers engaged. Partnering with Sykes, a breast cancer survivor, added credibility and authenticity, making the call to action more impactful. This clever use of humor and urgency made the ad one of the most memorable and meaningful of the night.

For the first time since 1998, Nike returned to the Super Bowl with a one-minute ad, "You Can’t Stop Us," that shattered expectations. The ad spotlighted female athletes pushing the limits of what society says they "can’t" do, featuring icons like Jordan Chiles, Caitlin Clark, A'ja Wilson, and Sha'Carri Richardson. With a powerful voiceover from rapper Doechii, the ad’s message was one of defiance and perseverance:

“You can’t be demanding. You can’t be relentless. You can’t put yourself first. So, put yourself first.”

From a public relations standpoint, this campaign is a strategic move for Nike, a brand that has faced criticism for its treatment of female athletes. From maternity policies that penalized pregnant athletes to underrepresentation in marketing, Nike’s past actions have sparked controversy. However, this ad signals a potential shift, positioning Nike as a brand that celebrates and empowers women in sports.

Nike strategically placed the ad just before halftime, the most engaging moment of the game, reaching 28.1 million households and making it the most-viewed ad of the night. This timing maximized exposure, proving that inspirational messaging and cultural relevance can make for an unforgettable campaign.

In 2025, the NFL continued its push for flag football, airing a two-minute commercial advocating for the sport to become a varsity offering in all 50 states. Featuring stars like Marshawn Lynch and Justin Jefferson, the ad used humor and a high school movie trope to highlight the journey of young women joining the sport.

This campaign is a strategic PR move for the NFL, building on its efforts to diversify its audience. With flag football officially confirmed as part of the 2028 Olympics, the sport is set to gain more global attention. This inclusion not only increases its international visibility but also has the potential to influence the sport on a broader scale. By promoting grassroots flag football, the NFL is aligning itself with youth engagement and inclusivity—key factors for fostering long-term brand loyalty and expanding its global footprint.

Super Bowl commercials aren’t just about selling products—they’re about storytelling with purpose. This year’s most talked-about ads, like the breast cancer PSA, Nike’s campaign, and the NFL’s flag football promotion, used their multimillion-dollar airtime to spark important conversations around health, gender equity, and inclusivity.

From a public relations perspective, these ads embodied key principles: audience targeting, message clarity, and strategic partnerships. By connecting with viewers on an emotional level, brands and organizations made their Super Bowl spots more than just entertainment—they made them memorable moments that contributed to cultural change.

In today’s world, consumers demand authenticity and social responsibility. The brands and organizations that successfully blend powerful messaging with smart PR strategies will continue to lead the conversation long after the game is over.

Finding my Love for the World

By: Jolie Chene

Since I was a kid I’ve always felt something burning in me that wanted to see more than my city, Farmington Hills, MI. 

Growing up my family traveled quite a bit as my mother wanted to visit all 50 states before she turned 50. She was able to accomplish this and my sister and I were able to travel alongside. Though as a child I always appreciated the experiences that I was able to join, however, I never fully appreciated the sights I was seeing, the miles I was traveling and the people I was meeting. 

When I was in highschool, something in me just needed to get out of the city I was in, explore more than the few weeks that I was allotted out of school. Needing to see the world and experience other cultures. I moved to Mount Pleasant for school which gave me a change of scenery, but after two years I still felt like I was missing out on a lot of the world.

Sophomore year in college I found out about CMU’s study abroad program. I signed up to travel to the UK with a business class, as time went on I hadn't heard much but I figured it wasn't an issue until I met with my study abroad advisor and discovered there was a problem with my application and it did not go through. I wasn't going to be able to attend that class in the UK. Luckily I am not someone to give up, so this didn't stop me.

I worked diligently with my advisor for the next month finding other programs to solo travel to another country rather than going with a group. We found a program in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, a four week course for International Marketing. I got my applications quickly filled out and submitted before they closed. Later receiving an email that I was accepted.  

Packing my things, hopping on an eight hour flight to a city where I knew not one person. The most excitement and joy I’ve ever felt in my life, the thrill of something new and the unknown. Living by myself for a month, going to school with people I've never met, meeting friends from America and The Netherlands. This was truly an experience that I will never forget. Something about that feeling for travel had just grown even bigger, the second I stepped foot back in America I wanted to go somewhere else again. That month I began researching places to intern abroad. 

Searching country after country, I wanted to experience something new again. I loved Europe and the culture and really wanted to go back, but I felt like I needed to experience further while I was still in college. I applied for internships in Australia, accepted into two internships I decided on Neon Black, a small PR agency in Sydney. 

Once again, packing my things, hopping on a 24 hour flight to a city where I knew not one person aside from my internship supervisor who interviewed me. The second most excitement and joy I’ve ever felt in my life, the thrill of something new and the unknown and for this time I’d be there for two months and more submerged into the culture and work life abroad. I worked nine to five, monday to friday each day learning more about PR and the Australian work culture, then saturday and sunday learning more about the everyday culture and the beautiful views to see and amazing people to meet. 

Though both of these experiences were meant for me to learn and strengthen my education, they helped me grow as a person and set me on a path to find who I really am. Throwing myself into a new country head first not knowing if there's a net at the bottom. As I fell to the bottom I found there were so many amazing people on the other side to catch me, teach me and show me the way of their world and the beautiful friendships that can be made out of strangers.  

So when the faculty of CMU asks me how much I learned from my class or what I got out of my internship, I always let them know I fulfilled my curriculum and enjoyed my experience. But at the end of the day I learned so much more than I could've ever imagined from the people and experiences. Returning to America, yet again with a fire and passion bigger than when I left and the memories of my friends and experiences that I’m not sure I'll ever meet again. So I reflect on my time, and I smile knowing that though I may never see them again, they've left a bigger impact on my life and future than I ever would have thought could come from a stranger on the other side of a far too long flight.

Keeping Thanksgiving Civil

By Ella Pierzecki

Thanksgiving — a time for giving thanks, eating turkey and spending time with family. Maybe seeing close family or maybe it’s family you haven’t seen in a while. You may find yourself forcing small talk with your family or twiddling your thumbs in awkward silence. For many families, this small talk may turn into disagreement. Especially if family members have conflicting political beliefs. We are coming off the heels of an especially tense election season, after all.  

Regardless of who you voted for, you may be feeling anxious heading into Thanksgiving this year. To help, I put together a list of tips to keep the holiday civil.   

My first tip is to focus on gratitude. This is what Thanksgiving is all about. Something that has helped to diffuse tension in my family, is beginning our meal sharing something we are thankful for. This sets the tone early and helps to establish a positive atmosphere.  

 This next tip may seem obvious, but try to avoid discussion of controversial topics like politics. If a touchy subject is brought up, you could try redirecting the conversation towards something more positive.  

If you’re worried about not knowing what to talk about, I would suggest preparing conversation starters. To be honest, this tip helps me before any social gathering I attend. Some of my favorite topics are sports, the weather or what you’re doing in school. You could also consider sharing family stories. If you want to make the conversation Thanksgiving themed, consider these questions:  

• What’s your favorite Thanksgiving dish? 

• What was Thanksgiving like when you were a kid? 

• If you had to eat one Thanksgiving food for the rest of your life, what would it be? 

• If you could invite any famous person to Thanksgiving dinner, who would it be? 

If you don’t think any of these topics will work for your family, consider discussing Christmas plans, what you will buy on Black Friday or something looking towards the upcoming holiday.  

Next, if your family has kids around, try to keep them in the mix. This will help keep a lighthearted environment. Also consider playing games to focus on something other than awkward conversation. A classic Thanksgiving game that I always recommend is spoons.   

Finally, if you don’t think any of these strategies will work, leave the conversation. This exit strategy could be something as simple as checking on the dessert or going to the bathroom. Take a breather and return when you feel ready to re-engage. If you don’t feel able to re-engage, you can try finding a new family member to talk to. But if all is going very bad, there is no shame in heading home.  

If you want to engage in political conversation, treat family members with whom you disagree with respect. Disagreement does not have to be uncivil. You can be civil with a loved one, even when you don’t share their political views. If you’re in a disagreement with a family member, know that you may not change their opinion just as they likely won’t change yours. You can approach these conversations with a sense of curiosity while trying to learn why they disagree.  

 Disagreements are not always a bad thing. Disrespectful disagreements, however, can become a bad thing. Approach conversations with an open mind, and finally, remember to enjoy your Thanksgiving meal. 

The Hunt for an Internship

By Breana Wheeler

As my sophomore year came to an end, I did not think I would be able to get a summer internship, and I was right. It wasn’t until Oct. 8 when I finally received an offer for an internship.  

I started applying for internships in December 2023 hoping to get an internship for the summer of 2024. I remember being nervous hoping I could secure a spot. 

I applied to internships through LinkedIn and Handshake almost three times a week. Searching almost every day to see if any new jobs posted were being posted on either platform.

After months of no call backs, I had given up. It was now May and any summer intern spots were long filled. 

I blamed myself for waiting so long to get a spot, but stayed optimistic because I was only a sophomore with two more years for any opportunities. 

When July came, I started applying to internships for summer of 2025 to try and secure a spot early. Again, searching every day for new internships being offered.  

As I kept searching, the 2024-2025 semester began, and I eventually expanded my search to Indeed after hearing a couple of people were offered internships. 

Because of that information, I was able to get two different interviews with companies that were all remote based for the fall semester. 

All of my interviews were over the phone and took between 30-40 minutes. I thought I would at least get one call back, but was met with emails telling me they were unfortunately going a different path. 

I was dejected after the rejections and started up my search for more internships on Indeed, once again. That same night I was rejected, I applied to CMRubinWorld hoping for any type of response, and the next day, I received an email asking for an interview. 

The interview was scheduled for the next day, and I was offered the internship on the spot as their intern for an online publishing company. 

I was ecstatic and accepted the position, having my official start date on Oct. 8. After months of trying, I had finally found an internship that is not only remote, but is going to help me grow as a journalist.  

PR in Campaigns and Elections

By Ella Pierzecki

You are probably sick of your inbox being flooded with campaign ads, political mailers filling your mailbox and the nonstop tv ads promoting candidates. At least, I know I am.  

Although all these spam advertisements are annoying, they are crucial in the success of a political campaign. These advertisements shape public perception, build a candidate’s credibility and manage flow of information.  

Behind the scenes, races nationally or locally all have PR teams hard at work. The election literally can be decided by the way the PR team, and the candidate, communicate with the public. There is so much relating to PR and campaigns that I can talk about, but I want to break it into three main topics: issue management, message control and crisis response.  

The way the public views a candidate is the foundation of an election. For example, many PR teams will post pictures of a candidate kissing babies. There are several reasons for this. The main reasoning is to show that the candidate is trustworthy. Everything put out by campaigns are carefully crafted to help show candidates in a positive light.  

In campaigns, politicians usually run with a trademark slogan. In this election, Donald Trump is running under the branding of, “Make America Great Again.” Kamala Harris is running under the branding of, “A new way forward.” These slogans were created by the candidates and their PR teams to build a brand for the candidate. The goal of a slogan is to capture the main messages that a campaign is trying to promote and make it easier for voters to remember and support a candidate. After slogans are created, the PR team carefully writes speeches, pushes out press releases and posts on social media with the goal of controlling the way the public views a candidate.  

The third focus of PR teams in political campaigns is the idea of crisis response. PR teams often face many crises during campaigns. This could be a scandal, a mistaken phrase said by the candidate, or an unanticipated negative advertisement run by the opposing party. The PR needs to swiftly work to limit damage to a candidate’s reputation. They could do this by posting online, issuing statements, or having a press conference if needed. On the flip side, the PR team should be ready to capitalize when the opposing candidate has a crisis. They need to prepare the candidate for how to properly gain ground in light of an incident.  

Overall, PR is arguably one of the most important pieces of political campaigns. It plays a vital role in controlling crises, managing public perception, sharing messages and painting the candidate in a favorable light. If done successfully, a PR strategy can win an election.  

After election day, regardless of the outcome, remember to smile because those pesky political ads are finally over—at least for a little while.  

An ‘ICON’ic Week

By Emily Meyers

I had the wonderful opportunity to attend PRSSA’s ICON from Oct. 13-17. I attended alongside our chapter’s President Jolie, our VP Megan, Kendall, Abby and Kyra. The six of us flew out to Anaheim, CA to experience the wonderful opportunities the conference had to offer. 

We heard from speakers that work in all different industries doing all types of PR related things. We got to experience a professional conference, for some of us it was our first one. Networking with other PRSSA chapters and even met three other chapters from Michigan! It was great to connect with people from home when we were so far from it.

My personal favorite breakout session occurred on our last day at the conference. It was Larry Kopp, a former actor turned crisis PR specialist. He has represented the Trayvon Martin family, Felicity Huffman and William H. and Macy during the Varsity Blues scandal along with others in his 20 year career. He had so much to talk about, and I really admired the way he talked about his staff. He kept going on and on about how great his team was. Sounded like a great boss!

This conference will be one of the most memorable times of my college experience. I got to spend it with five of my best friends. I got to learn more about PR. I got to travel alone for the first time (which was a bit daunting, but that’s not the point of this blog). The experience I gained really made me a lot more confident in the career field I chose. I can’t wait to use what I learned in my career. Next stop, graduation in December!

Bath and Body Works Apologizes for Candle Scandal

Written by: Allison Corbett

With the holidays quickly approaching, lots of people are already looking for gifts for their loved ones. A popular destination that I and many other people go to is the candle and body care titan Bath and Body Works. When you go into one of their stores you expect beautiful designs and fragrant scents, not something that will make you do a double take and question if you should be shopping there.

As a retail store, Bath and Body Works is already displaying products that will bring you into the holiday spirit. With their winter and Christmas designs making their debut, there is something for everyone to love. I know I do. However, their recent reveal of a new scent has people outraged by the design associated with it. “Snowed In”, a new candle scent, has a design that has the public floored. What was supposed to be a paper snowflake instead looks like the hoods of the Klu Klux Klan- the oldest hate group in America.

With national news outlets covering the scandal, Bath and Body Works’s PR team immediately released a statement, apologizing and taking responsibility for the issue, stating; “At Bath and Body Works, we are committed to listening to our teams and customers, and committed to fixing any mistakes we make-even those that are unintentional like this one.”

To further remedy their mistake, Bath and Body Works issued an immediate removal of the product in all of their stores and the candle is now also unavailable on their website, “We apologize to anyone we’ve offended and are swiftly working to have this item removed and are evaluating our process going forward.”

Despite the apology, people are still questioning the integrity of the company, assuming the mistake was made as a result of lack of diversity within the brand. Going forward, all eyes will be on Bath and Body Works as they work to earn back the inclusive and diverse reputation they once had.

“Delegate” isn’t a Bad Word.

By Wyatt Heppner

Having worked with and for people significantly older than me and younger than me, I have noticed a distinct trend in millennial and Gen Z leaders: A distinct inability to delegate.  

Frequently, I have found that my Gen Z coworkers and leaders tend to receive a pile of tasks that were intended to be distributed amongst a group, and simply start completing them alone. Working on a political campaign, I had a boss who struggled with their leadership position because they were piled with work, but I, their employee, was not receiving any work to do.  

There is a co-worker in the military who is put into leadership roles who frequently receives a pile of tasks. It is then a battle to get her to distribute the tasks so they can be completed efficiently.  

 It was frustrating to watch, until I figured out two primary reasons. One of the primary reasons I found was a sense of responsibility for the task, and outcome of the task combined with “If I do it, I know it is done right,” type of thinking. That is simply the wrong way to think about it, if you are a leader at any level, you need to trust the people on your team to complete tasks. Being the most experienced person on the team you should be the one doing quality control when they have a finished or mostly finished product. 

If you’re assigned to do multiple pitch letters for events through the month, assign a couple of team members to write them and then, before they get sent, read them and edit. Most importantly share the edits do not simply fix and hand it back, annotate what you edited and why. Plus, you’ll save time—and who doesn’t want to go home early? 

The other reason? I found a fear of assigning too much work and coming off as “bossy”. Gen Z bosses have an anxiety of making their team hate them by passing down work that was assigned to them. A distinct feeling of “this was assigned to me, why should they be doing it?”. Not every work project is specifically for the manager to do. Often, work is passed to a manager who identifies the best people to work on the project.  

These feelings honestly come from a uniquely caring place and concern for work life balance. However, in the cases I experienced, I was not getting any projects, which meant no portfolio development which meant my career was not developing. There is a balance of how much work to assign a team member, and that comes from honest communication with your team and reviewing past projects to see what worked and what did not.  

Gen Z leaders have the resources to be incredible team leaders and managers, all they need is the confidence and communication skills to work with their teams. They need to be able to delegate their tasks for their teams and step back and control the quality of the whole project, not try to bear the weight entirely on their own.  

How I Found my Passion for PR

By Marissa Bloomquist

PRSSA has been so influential throughout my college career. I’m only a sophomore, but I have made so many new connections and friends gaining amazing opportunities. Why did I choose PR? Why writing and media?  

At a young age, I started writing poems and letters to family members. My great-grandma lived nearby on the family farm. We were pen paIs. I loved writing letters while also looking forward to receiving her correspondence in the mail, quickly responding back to her.  Eventually, as I matured, I received my first diary. This allowed me to write freely. I could journal my emotions onto paper without judgment or fear.  

Throughout my school years my love for writing grew and evolved. Even writing an essay filled me with feelings of accomplishment and excitement. I was expressing my beliefs and opinions. 

 My true passion for writing really came to fruition during my sophomore year of high school. Due to COVID-19, all of my classes were virtual. Leaving me, involuntarily, enrolled in journalism and yearbook. This was a moment of complete devastation fearing these classes were going to be difficult.  

Journalism was a very new writing process creating a lot of confusion for me, but I quickly found my groove. My first day of virtual interviewing arrived and I was terrified. My responsibilities included interviewing the student body, designing layouts, taking pictures and other activities. It was at this time I knew journalism was my calling. During my junior and senior years of high school, I was promoted to editor, ensuring a quality yearbook was published.  

In addition to being the yearbook editor, outside of school, I’m very involved in FFA, agriculture and livestock. At the age of six,  I started showing sheep, eventually including small animals. After graduation, I plan to incorporate my love of agriculture and journalism to, hopefully, become an agricultural journalist.  

Why isn’t journalism my major? First, CMU is close to home having one of the best PR programs in the state of Michigan. Public relations opens so many doors and opportunities which is why I’m majoring in PR and minoring in journalism. Many professors and my parents advised me to get involved immediately. Quickly, I discovered PRSSA on campus and began attending meetings. As classes and meetings continued, my passion for PR deepened, especially the social media and writing aspect, in addition to learning about future career opportunities, internships and workplace documents through PRSSA. CMU campus is beautiful each and every season. Students and staff are so friendly and welcoming which made the transition to campus life much easier.  

Joining PRSSA as soon as possible allowed me to gain experience and receive advice from seasoned PR students. We held many tabling events, student panels and of course, the spring Duck Derby which I enjoyed the most. Each PRSSA member sold rubber ducks with numbers to much of our community. The ducks are then raced down the lazy river at the Soaring Eagle Waterpark. As silly as it sounds, it was a very fun event and I can’t wait to make many more memories throughout my college career. Fire Up Chips!  

Taylor Swift’s Timely Endorsement

By Kyra Macomber

The most recent Presidential debate drew in 67.1 million viewers. With this being an important election for many on either side of the political spectrum, and with a somewhat last minute change in the Democratic nominee, the eyes of the American people are looking to political leaders no matter their tax bracket. It seems this is especially true of the now most-awarded artist in VMA award history, Taylor Swift.  

Her name evokes feelings in many people, from devotion and love, to hatred, to respect and even confusion. In a media climate so completely overrun by her image, it’s hard to maintain a neutral position on her success or artistry. However, it is hard for anyone to discredit her impact, which seems bound to no industry or topic. In 2020, she touches on becoming more politically active, detailed in her documentary Miss Americana, in both her music with songs like ‘You Need To Calm Down’ and ‘Only The Young’ encouraging her younger audience to register to vote. 

The artist has been notably silent for the duration of this campaign cycle. However, with other celebrities speaking out in spades with support on either side, TIME Magazine’s 2023 Person Of The Year has kept her cards close to her chest. Swift’s fans were beginning to get restless, with more extreme groups calling for people to sell their tickets for the final performances of The Eras Tour and boycotting her music unless she spoke out in support of Kamala Harris. Others said they would abandon the artist if she gave support to the democratic nominee.  All of this became more intense once Brittnay Mahomes, wife of Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, made her support of Donald Trump known. Because of Taylor’s relationship with the couple through her boyfriend Travis Kelce, fans once again demanded she speak out or disparage Brittnay Mahome's name. 

It seems Miss Swift always stays a step ahead. Immediately following the Presidential Debate, she posted her support for the Harris-Walz administration and openly reprimanding Donald Trump for his use of her likeness in an AI-generated ad for his campaign. This may seem coincidental or like a last-minute decision by Taylor’s team, but an hour later Kamala Harris left her conference to the tune of The Man by Swift which takes much more time than an hour to have approved. The next day, Harris-Walz friendship bracelets appeared on their website, seemingly a nod to the popularization of beaded bracelets from Taylor Swift herself. Combined with the link Taylor posted to register to vote which was clicked on more than 337,000 times according to NBC. The impact of this move has been undeniable. She has motivated a large group of impressionable voters with a move that has obviously been in the works for longer than any accusations regarding her supposed silence.  

Most importantly, by delaying her endorsement of Kamala Harris, Taylor Swift has prolonged the conversation surrounding these candidates. On one of the biggest nights leading up to the 2024 election, Taylor made sure the eyes of a very large, younger demographic were watching and talking to each other and their families and friends about this upcoming election.

Interview Tips

By: Jolie Chene  

Do research on the company

Check on LinkedIn, Instagram and other social media for recent posts and current updates about the company. Take a look at the website, and understand its key messages and mission statement. Research any clients, big projects and the company focus. 

Understanding the job

Reading over the job description on the website or LinkedIn, wherever you found the job listing. Know the requirements and expectations of the job.

Prepare questions

Prepare at least three questions to ask the interviewer at the end of the interview. Try to avoid basic questions or things they may have already answered. The best questions will come from the research that you do on the company.

Dress appropriately 

You should dress business professional for an interview unless suggested otherwise by the interviewer. A blazer and dress pants, a suit, or a dress is preferred. If an interview is virtual, make sure your background is clean, the lighting is good and no distractive noise.

During the interview

Be sure to stay engaged during the interview. Keep good posture and body language. Use good eye contact and ask any questions you have. Confidence always leaves a good impression, stay positive in your answers and be confident in everything you say.

Follow up

Send a follow-up email or mail a letter to the person who interviewed you. Thank them for their time and let them know you are excited about the position.

PRSSA Duck Derby

By: Ella Peirzecki

On April 10 students of the PRSSA chapter at Central Michigan University are hosting a Duck Derby fundraising event. The Duck Derby is an annual event. It will take place at Soaring Eagle Waterpark in Mount Pleasant at 9 p.m.

On the night of the event, more than 1,400 rubber ducks will race down the Soaring Eagle lazy river. The owners of the first three ducks to cross the finish line will receive prizes.

The first-place duck will win a two-night stay at the Soaring Eagle Waterpark. The second-place will receive a gift card basket. The third-place finisher will win a $75 gift card to the CMU bookstore.

This is the first time PRSSA is hosting the event. Previously, PR Central, CMU’s student-run PR firm, ran the event.

PRSSA members Abby Jenkins and Kendall Weishaupt are in charge of planning the event.

Weishaupt said, “it’s been difficult because PRSSA doesn’t normally do this. Usually PR Central hosts it. I’m not someone who wants to do event planning, but I think it’s really cool that we have the ability to get this experience.”

Jenkins said, “buying ducks is a really cheap way to win a good prize and help students meet their fundraising goals,”.

The club is fundraising to go to the PRSSA International Conference (ICON) which will be held in California this year.

Weishaupt said, “the fundraiser is a great way for friends and family to get involved with PRSSA and ICON is a great professional networking experience.”

The goal is to sell all of the ducks we have.

Vice President Katie Haley and Immediate Past President Leona Falconer helped to host last year's Duck Derby through PR Central.

Falconer said, “we actually do it after the water park closes. So, it’s just us and the ducks. It’s fun to watch.”

Haley said, “it’s a fun bonding experience and an event for the whole club to be able to do together. It really is a great fundraiser for us.”

The chapter will host a Facebook livestream during the event for anyone who wants to see the rubber ducks race down the lazy river. To become the owner of a duck, you can purchase one from PRSSA for $2. The ducks can be purchased at this link or on the CMU PRSSA Instagram page @cmuprssa.

Culturs Central Recap

By: Jolie Chene

Since October, students of the PRSSA chapter at Central Michigan University have been working on bringing the magazine, Culturs, to CMU’s campus. Our goal was to bring Culturs Magazine to the attention of students who would benefit from it.

At CMU there is a large audience of international students. We decided this would be the best group to spread the mission of this magazine with. Throughout our implementation period we worked to get in touch with and hear the stories of international professors and students here on campus. 

We worked with the International Student Organization to have a cultural workshop. During this time students shared their stories and struggles of being a third culture adult and a student in a brand new culture. We learned from them about resources on campus, their home cultures, different education systems and much more. During this workshop we got the chance to learn first hand what it is like to be a third culture adult on our campus and in America.

Our team was also divided to interview many international professors and students at CMU and share their stories. They shared about culture shock, moving to a new country, past jobs and working in other countries. These interviews allowed us to get real stories and experiences from third culture adults and to get a better understanding on what it is really like.

Throughout these past few months we got the chance to learn and fully appreciate a variety of other cultures and get a better understanding of the culture shock and transitions that third culture kids and adults go through. We got the chance to spread Culturs Magazine to an audience that benefits from it while also gaining knowledge about new cultures. In addition to spreading the message of Culturs across CMU’s campus, we also spread awareness of what international students and professors go through to be a part of our community and culture of CMU.

The international student athlete experience

By: Emily Meyers

Angelina Horn is an exchange student-athlete at Central Michigan University from Ludewigsfelde, Germany. She came to the United States on a scholarship to run track.

“I mainly chose to come here to run because the support system for athletes here is way better; especially to those who are students as well,” Horn said about why she ultimately decided to travel abroad to run. 

She began running in fifth grade after her PE teacher told her it would be worth a shot because she was fast and would be good. She didn’t have any other extracurriculars at the time, so she tried it and fell in love with the sport.

Now, attending a college 4,127 miles away from home, she competes in triple jump and, occasionally, the 4x1. 

“When I came to the US, I think I was more scared of the culture shock, but it wasn’t as big of a difference as I expected,” Horn said. “Everyone was really welcoming. I would say I adapted pretty quickly. Sometimes it’s hard because you’re leaving your whole support system at home behind, but it was really easy to make friends here because I had the whole track team behind me.”

The most memorable difference for her is the open mindedness Americans have compared to people in her country. 

“Americans are a little more open to getting to know people they don’t already know,” Horn said. “In Germany, it takes a little longer to get to know somebody, but here people are more open minded. At least in the beginning.”

Cultural crossroads: A journey from Nepal to America

By: Megan Mearnic

Shashwat Maharjan embarked on a transformative journey when he chose to pursue his undergraduate degree at Central Michigan University. Despite hailing from Nepal, he felt drawn to the United States due to his comfort with the English language, the abundance of scholarship opportunities and the academic environment. However, his transition to American culture was not without its challenges.

Upon his arrival, Maharjan encountered cultural shocks, particularly in aspects like food choices and social interactions. Adjusting to the warmth of strangers' greetings and navigating unfamiliar social norms took some time. Fortunately, he found solace in the welcoming community of Nepali students, who shared similar experiences and introduced him to familiar cuisine, fostering a sense of belonging.

Despite the initial cultural adjustments, Maharjan quickly appreciated the differences in the education systems between Nepal and the U.S. He found the American approach to teaching, which emphasized visual learning and diverse assessment methods, to be more conducive to his academic growth. As a graduate student, transitioning from structured classes to research-intensive work presented new challenges, but he embraced them as opportunities for personal and intellectual development.

Navigating social dynamics in the US proved to be another learning curve for Maharjan. While forming connections within academic and professional circles enriched his experience, he initially struggled with informal hierarchies in professional settings, such as addressing older colleagues by their first names. Nevertheless, the support and guidance of peers and mentors played a pivotal role in helping him navigate these cultural nuances.

Throughout his educational journey, Maharjan has had the opportunity to experience life in different corners of the U.S., from the academic atmosphere of Mount Pleasant to the vibrant energy of San Diego during his internship. Despite the varying climates and lifestyles, he found common threads of familiarity and hospitality, which further enriched his cross-cultural experience.

Bridging cultures: Jinhee Lee’s journey of cultural transition

By: Shirley Olatunji

Professor Jinhee Lee’s family photo in South Korea.

Professor Jinhee Lee is a fascinating individual whose life weaves through diverse cultures and academic landscapes. Originally from South Korea, Jinhee Lee warmly invites us into her world, sharing the unique journey that led her to becoming a professor in the United States.

Jinhee Lee offers a captivating insight into her South Korean upbringing, emphasizing the collective nature of her community. In her hometown, shared experiences held more significance than spoken words. She vividly describes the intimate definition of family – parents and children – shaping the warmth that characterized her formative years.

"In our community, we perceive ourselves as members of groups - university, occupation, family – those kinds of things are more important than individual identities."

As she delves into her life as an international student in the United States, the challenges of adapting to a culture valuing individualism come to light. She shares an example of the struggle she faced during introductory sessions or small talks, where expressing fun facts about herself became a symbolic battle against the cultural shift she experienced in the U.S.

"In South Korea, we do not really do a lot of “small talks” which I had to get used to moving here. Also, the fun facts question is very hard to answer because I didn't think about interesting things about me because who I am is not very important." 

Jinhee Lee guides us through the corridors of academia, comparing South Korea and U.S. university systems. The shift in student-professor dynamics stands out – a transition from a structured hierarchy to a more interactive relationship. She narrates a specific incident where adapting to the American style of questioning and discussion in class posed a unique challenge, requiring her to find her voice in the academic discourse.

“I'm shy and introverted, but I became more introverted and not very confident in my classroom because I'm from a different culture. Since other people could not understand me very well, I lost my confidence. After a while I became more confident and realized that I could ask and answer questions in class. So, I would advise every international student to be confident in themselves regardless of whatever situation or the student-professor dynamics wherever they are.”

Lee unveils the support systems that played a pivotal role in her journey. University organizations and the Korean student community provided more than just guidance through legal processes; they became lifelines of belonging.

"They had some kind of event to introduce our culture to other students and then gather together.  I could also talk to members of those organizations. And they gave out tips and advice about how I can deal with some kind of situation and get some information about living and everything. It was very helpful and supportive during my graduate school year."

Jinhee Lee  reflects on her role as a professor, highlighting the cultural difference in how students address professors right from her days as a graduate student. 

“In South Korea, there is a formal structure of how you address professors; however, in the US, there are different flexible ways of addressing your professors.”

As the conversation shifts to cultural diversity on campus, Jinhee Lee illuminates the limited exposure students have. She emphasizes the significance of organizations like Culturs in promoting cultural understanding. In a heartfelt conclusion, Professor Jinhee Lee shares her wisdom with students, urging them to embark on journeys of cultural exploration. She injects a bit of dialogue into her advice, recalling a moment when she advised herself to "just be confident" in the face of cultural differences.

"Most students are from Michigan, and in my class, usually I have very few students from other cultural backgrounds. So usually, I advise them to travel outside of Michigan to see different people and different cultures.”

Professor Jinhee’s narrative unfolds as a testament to the transformative power of cultural experiences. Her journey, embellished with personal anecdotes, academic adaptation and a quest for cultural understanding, resonates in a world where interconnectedness is paramount. 

Professor Jinhee’s experience stands as a captivating reminder that unity in diversity is not just achievable but enriching, especially within the realm of education.

Brazilian graduate student navigates his identity as a Third Culture Kid

By: Kendall Weishaupt

Andrei Smoler Coelho, a film theory graduate student and graduate assistant, defines himself as a Third Culture Kid (TCK). A TCK is a person who has spent a significant amount of their developmental years outside of their parents’ culture. He was born in Brazil and has lived in three countries, 14 cities and moved 24 times within those cities.

As a TCK, there is a lot of uncertainty around where you could go next while trying to understand your identity. When Smoler started his undergraduate degree, he went to a seminar about multiculturalism. This seminar addressed the topic of TCKs. Smoler talked to the speaker afterward and that is when he found an identity as a TCK. He realized his experience is one that many others go through.

It was difficult at first for Smoler when he first arrived at CMU because of the difference between American universities and Brazilian universities. In his experience, CMU has been a welcoming place for international students, and it helped him integrate into the culture. Michigan is a more traditionally American state compared to other states Smoler has lived in the U.S., and he feels CMU has gone out of its way to make it a safe and welcoming environment.

He explained how many TCKs can feel left out and as if they are not part of the larger culture, so resources like Culturs are a great way to bridge the gap. Culturs is helpful for multicultural people to see stories like theirs and a good way for others to learn about hidden diversity and multicultural experiences.

Smoler explained, “I am at a point where I am comfortable with who I am as a TCK and I accept it and use it to my advantage.”

Joining the Mount Pleasant Community

By: Emily Meyers

Whether you’ve been gone for a while or it’s your first time ever being in Mount Pleasant, I’m sure you’re wondering what there is for you to do. I was in your shoes once, too. 

I grew up in a super small town with 2,000 people, so while I’m sure Mount Pleasant may seem boring, I can assure you I am pretty much a professional at finding unusual things that are fun.

In the realm of things you may not consider doing every day, you could go to Valhalla Axe Throwing to get in some reps throwing axes with your friends. You could go to The Jump Station which is a trampoline park.

You could always try thrifting as we have lots of discount shopping stores such as Burlington, TJ Maxx, the Salvation Army and Goodwill. College kids love finding cute cheap clothes – you can even completely restyle the clothing item! Get creative!

There are lots of great local places to eat. Pixie’s and Jon’s Drive-In are great options for classics that everybody loves. 

Michiganders are super nice, so if you have more questions about the area – ask! People who grew up or live full-time in the area often give great, unknown ideas for places to visit.

Welcome to Mount Pleasant!