By: Grace Berndt
Professional conferences can be a game changer for your future career. Often, students are discouraged from attending conferences because of money and time. These barriers often lead students to view conferences as a hassle when really, it’s a worthwhile investment for their future. There are several benefits that come from attending conferences that can kickstart your career in PR and elevate your professionalism when you graduate.
Seeing the Future
Conferences are a place where professionals from different areas within the industry come together to share ideas and set goals. In the midst of the hub, you’ll witness the newest developments and strategies in PR. Knowing what to expect in the industry in the future and how to shape your individualistic skills will help you stand out.
Hello PR Major, Meet Your Future Career
As any PR major knows, public relations is a vast profession that can be used in any industry or organization. Conferences showcase the unique ways PR is being put to use. If you’re unsure of what you want to do in PR conferences can open you to new opportunities you may never have known existed.
Rubbing Elbows
Another benefit of conferences is networking. Conferences bring together speakers, vendors and attendees from all levels of the industry and all over the country. This is an opportunity for you to meet professionals and talk to them about what they do and gain insight on what they look for in new hires and how you can excel.
Carpe Diem
Seize the day. While at the conference, be attentive and be present, both physically and mentally. Take notes, gather information and take professional’s business cards. Take what you learn to your classroom, on campus clubs or internship and begin implementing your newfound PR powers.
Showcase Your Drive for Success
Not only will you obtain insight into the industry, but this is also an experience that shows you are invested in PR. Attending conferences will give you a step up and show your willingness to learn, your commitment to the industry and your drive to succeed. Get started with CMU PRSSA and White Pines PRSA’s spring conference “Realizing Our Impact” on March 22 in the Bovee University Center.