Kerrilyn Collins
September 13, 2018
The walkways are packed, parking is tight, and the Chick-Fil-A line is out-the-door. School is officially back in session! With the beginning of the semester comes new students, new classes, and new opportunities. I love the excitement as people try to find where they belong, what activities and clubs to get involved in.
As a new student, I didn’t understand what it meant to get involved with your major. I didn’t realize not only the importance of it, but also the excitement! No matter your major, it’s important to get involved outside the classroom. So, how do you get involved and what may that look like for students interested in public relations?
Look into involvement opportunities within your major
I’ll be honest, no matter how much you love what you’re studying, you’re always going to have those boring classes and things that you don’t care about learning. The great thing about clubs and activities outside the classroom is that it gives you real world experience and the opportunity to be more hands on.
What does that look like for PR students?
As a PR student, getting involved in PRSSA is crucial to your professional development as a student! Before getting involved, I didn’t realize how much PRSSA matters and all the opportunities that comes along with being a member. As a member of the chapter, you are exposed to PR professionals and opportunities like regional conferences, internships, and scholarships that you would otherwise not have access to!
What if I’m not a Public Relations major?
Many people think that in order to be in PRSSA, you have to be a PR major. That is NOT true! If you’re reading this and you’re not a PR major, I encourage you to join! As a professional development group PRSSA teaches you professional skills that will further you in your career outside of college!
Why did I join PRSSA?
As a high school student I was super involved, so coming to college was a big transition for me. As a freshman, I wasn’t quite sure about my major and definitely did not know how to get involved with it. It wasn’t until the end of freshman year that I signed up to be in PRSSA and actually be a board member. I love PRSSA and the opportunities it’s given me. I’ve traveled, met some very influential people, and been able to put together work that I can show future employers. The professional qualities I’ve developed and the connections I’ve made are going to push me further in my career. I think it’s so important to take advantage of what you’re learning. Going beyond the classroom is what makes college worth while. I definitely encourage you all to do- PR major or not!
How do I get involved?
It’s simple! This next week is our first ever PR Week! During the week there will be many chances to not only learn more about PRSSA but also sign up! On Monday the 17th, there will be an Info booth in Stamps courtyard! Come stop by and say hi, sign up for PRSSA, grab some free swag!
For more information on PRSSA, please visit our Instagram!
#cbuprssa
