By: Grace Berndt
If you have the drive and determination to advance your career in public relations, you can take the first step toward your future by joining Public Relations Student Society of America. This is the perfect place to start if you want to learn public relations trends and skills.
You can build your portfolio and gain hands-on experience by joining a PRSSA committee. At general meetings you gain great insight to the professional PR world, but you can take the next step and join a committee. Committees allow you to fine tune what you are learning and apply it to real experiences.
Professional Development
By joining the Professional Development committee you can show that you are invested in furthering your education, you’re dedicated to your trade and you seek professional development. As a member of this committee you will assist in planning the internship fair, agency tours and the spring conference. You will also have the opportunity to network with peers and professionals.
Interested in joining?
Contact the directors of professional development:
Terzah Dyer at dyer1tb@cmich.edu
Jenna McDonnell at mcdon1jn@cmich.edu
Meetings are Monday at 5 p.m. in Moore 110.
Publications
The Publications committee gives you great opportunity to build your portfolio and expand your writing skills. You will attend bi-weekly meetings, brainstorm topics, focus on AP style and write for the chapter’s blog. This committee also offers the opportunity to have your writing material published by the national publication, Progressions.
Interested in joining?
Contact the director of publications:
Alexis Schuchert at schuc1ar@cmich.edu
Meetings are bi-weekly on Tuesday at 5 p.m. in Moore 110.
Chapter Events and Fundraising
By joining the Chapter Events and Fundraising committee you will have the opportunity to assist in the planning and execution of PRSSA events such as the spring banquet, socials and fundraisers. Learning to be organized and how to work with a team is an investment that will further your future career.
Interested in joining?
Contact the directors of chapter events and fundraising:
Shiyao Liu (Mimi) at liu5s@cmich.edu
Kamryn Lowler at lowle1kh@cmich.edu
Meetings are bi-weekly on Monday at 6:30 p.m. in Moore 110.
Benefits of joining a committee are numerous. Having a four-point in class will only get you so far. Extracurriculars that allow you to gain real-world experiences and portfolio pieces set you apart and give you plenty to offer your future employers.