When junior member Lauren Vahldick isn’t searching for a new destination to explore, she’s busy tackling two internships, as well as being a full-time honor student at Illinois State University.

Tell us about yourself.

I am a junior public relations major with a creative writing minor from Naperville, Ill. In my free time, I love to read and keep up with my favorite TV shows, particularly “Scandal.” My favorite things in the world are eating, shopping and traveling. I was lucky enough to combine them all when I studied abroad in Florence, Italy last year. I met the greatest people, traveled to the most beautiful places, and ate a ton of pizza. I love new experiences and have a whole list of places I am dying to travel to.

What activities are you involved in outside of PRSSA?

In addition to PRSSA, I am a member of the honors program and participate in the honors book club. I love reading and have always wanted to be in a book club. As lame as that sounds, I absolutely love it! I also have two on-campus internships that take up a lot of my time. One is with Summer Session promoting summer school. The other is with the Office of Admissions helping potential incoming students to learn more about ISU.

Can you tell us about your internships and your role in each position?

I have been the intern for Summer Session since last August, and it has been a fantastic experience. It is my first internship, and I am very lucky to have an amazing supervisor to learn from who has really helped me get a feel for real world public relations. I manage all of the Summer Session social media pages and host information tables to promote the program across campus. Our campaign this year is “Get Your Ducks in a Row,” so I have been passing out rubber ducks and having duck-related contests. We are currently preparing for the Summer Session duck race in April, so that has been a big focus this semester.

At my viral marketing internship through the Office of Admissions, my job is to create content for its social media pages. We have different assignments each week, whether it is composing tweets, taking photos for Instagram, or creating blog posts. In addition, all interns each have their own category to write about, and mine is on the different departments within ISU. It is writing intensive, but it is great practice and I really do enjoy it. 

What are the experiences you have had with your internships, and what will you take away from them?

I have learned so much through my internships. When I look back at where I was a year ago, I have come such a long way. I could not write a press release, I was terrified of cold calling and I generally had no idea what I was doing. Not only have I gained experience from my internships, but also confidence in my abilities in the public relations world. Now that I have seen how rewarding internships can be, I cannot get enough of them!

How has being a public relations major helped you in your internships?

My internships and classes have really complemented each other and have helped me apply what I learn in the classroom to real life. I have had to research, pitch and write press releases in my current internships, all of which I learned through communication courses. Currently, in my crisis communication class, I am working on an honors project that is a vulnerability assessment and crisis plan for Summer Session’s duck race. I think it is so cool that I am able to use what I am learning in class to create something beneficial and useful for an actual event. 


Questions composed by Calysta Will

What is the number one thing people miss when building their personal brand online? This question and more were answered by Jason Mollica, president of JRM Comm Inc., when he visited the Illinois State University campus on March 25 to present “March Brandness.”

The event, co-sponsored by ISU PRSSA and the Student Government Association, taught students of all majors the importance of personal branding for professional success. The title was a spin on the popular NCAA basketball series, March Madness.  

Trust is the one feature professionals neglect when building their personal brand in the digital space. Mollica stressed the importance of authenticity and honesty both online and offline.

Your personal brand is the combination of “who I think I am,” “what I do and say,” and “perception of others.” A successful online personal brand includes the key components of honesty, transparency, responsibility, authenticity and passion.

“To inspire others and establish yourself as a future expert, you have to love what you do,” Mollica said when talking about why passion is so important.

How do you know what improvements can be made when it comes to your personal brand, though? Mollica suggested conducting a personal SWOT analysis and brand audit. A SWOT analysis maps your brand’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats.

The SWOT analysis goes hand in hand with the brand audit. This includes your brand guidelines and voice, engagement score, strategy and purpose, what you are sharing, and your frequency of posts. The brand audit is both a snapshot of your current brand online and a road map of where you’d like it to be in the future.

One mistake many students make is trying to be on every social network. Good personal branding is much more about quality over quantity. For example, many students feel they should have a blog, but Mollica says only do it if you are passionate. If you are only on Twitter, that is okay! Just make it the best Twitter account you can.

Mollica also answered some questions from students about LinkedIn and how it can help in the job search. While it will not replace your resume, it acts as a supplement. Mollica even said LinkedIn should be your number one network for job hunting and professional growth.

Students engaged with the event on Twitter, tracked through the #MarchBrandness hashtag. Check out some of the top tweets below!

By Lily Sherer

Just two hours after departing from Kuala Lampur on March 8, Malaysia Airlines Flight MH-370 mysteriously vanished from radar. 227 passengers and 12 crew members were on board when the plane took off at 12:55 a.m., scheduled to land in Beijing at 6:30 a.m. The flight was off to a normal start, but disappeared off the radar northwest of Kota Bharu, Malaysia in the South China Sea.

On Monday, March 24, Malaysian officials released a statement that due to the satellite data, there is no longer any reasonable doubt that the plane sunk in the Indian Ocean. Even worse, family members of those on board were notified via text message the presumed fate of Flight MH-370. Many are still skeptical of the plane’s fate, with some believing the Malaysian government has been hiding its whereabouts. Regardless, current known information points to its end in the Indian Ocean, and officials are standing by that information. The Malaysian government is also defending its decision to notify members through text message because it claims it wanted the families hear the fate first, not through the news. 

Still, before Monday, the airline had yet to provide any concrete explanations. Search crews from 26 countries were searching for the flight, but more speculation than actual evidence surfaced.

The main source of anger and protest of families has been due to the lack of information provided. Official comments made by China include requests to “step up their efforts and speed up their investigation.” Malaysian officials assure that they are doing everything possible to ensure the search is done properly and the public stays up-to-date.

 "I know this roller-coaster has been incredibly hard for everyone, especially for the families,"
said Malaysian defense minister Hishammuddin Hussein at a March 22 news conference. "We hope and pray this difficult search will be resolved, and bring closure to those whose relatives were on board."


By Becca Williams

On March 5, members of Illinois State University’s PRSSA attended the Central Illinois PRSA Chapter dinner. At the event, keynote speaker Laurel Hart spoke about “Social Media and Crisis Communications: Best Practices and New Strategies.”

 The dinner, held locally at Swingers Grille, began with 45 minutes of networking, followed by an Italian buffet enjoyed by attendees before Hart’s presentation. She gave details about crisis communication and defined a crisis. She defines a crisis as a crucial or decisive turning point. 

Hart discussed a variety of examples where companies have encountered crises and how they were able or not able to handle the problem at hand. One of the examples that Hart briefly talked about was the BP oil spill that happened in 2010. She pointed out that their plan was not updated and even had the name of a deceased colleague. She concluded this example by pointing out that any company should always have an updated crisis plan. 

Hearing from Hart was helpful for members and learning the importance of quickly identifying the problem, and having a crisis plan. Any crisis is immediately on a time limit because of the ambiguity that can build up when a company does not speak out quickly. Hart also spoke about how companies are able to reach out to customers through social media. Social media helps the company reach out to the public in a timely fashion. Social media can also be used to resolve or amplify a crisis, depending on how it is used.  If used properly, social media can clarify a situation and address a current issue.  It is also a great platform to enhance a company’s personal brand.

In all, Hart’s presentation gave great advice on how to deal with a crisis. Whether it is personal or within a company, it is necessary to identify the problem and plan for its recovery. The appropriate tools, such as social media, should be considered in maintaining a reputation.


By Analita Voss

On March 24th, American Eagle announced that it would soon be launching a new line of clothing. This line will consist of clothing for customer’s dogs and is aptly named “American Beagle.” While there is much buzz online from those who believe this may be tied to April Fools day, the attention the campaign is getting is no joke. 

The new line features online ads with popular Viner Brittany Furlan and her dog Meghan and is supposed to be released later this spring. Until then, American Eagle is giving customers the option to sign up for the waitlist, and receive 20% off of a purchase of three items or more. In addition, for every order placed, the company will donate one dollar to the ASPCA, up to $100,000. The campaign is also being translated to Instagram, with users Instagramming photos of their pets in clothes, with the hashtag #AEOstyle. 

American Eagle has already put up photos of some of the looks on their website, modeled by some adorable pups. The photos read “Coming soon” and have a link below that reads “Shop this look for women” (or men). 

The website also includes a video about the creation of the brand, which can be viewed here.

Although many online consumers believe that this is an early April Fools Joke, it’s an interesting public relations strategy. The brand is showing consumers that they’re supporting a great cause, showing corporate social responsibility and a genuine care for animals. In addition, they are driving traffic to their online site, by offering a coupon and by allowing users to see the doggie “looks” in styles for humans.

Although this is gaining lots of coverage for the brand, they could also run into problems if it turns out to be an April Fools day joke. The 20% off discount and the donations to charity are definitely real, however, the actual line of dog clothing may never become tangible. American “Beagle” may leave some users who are hopeful for a real dog clothing line disappointed if it is never released.

American Eagle is definitely bringing attention to both itself and the ASPCA, and even if it is just a joke, at least it supports a great cause. Once April 1st rolls around, we’ll find out for sure one way or another and be able to see if it pans out in a positive way. 


By Hailey Lanier

Illinois State University’s PRSSA geared up and backpacked through Europe on Friday, Feb. 28 for its spring apartment social. Beverages and snacks were available for all to enjoy at the apartments. 

Guests were encouraged to dress up according to one of the countries represented at the social, or try to incorporate all three within one outfit. The first stop was Greece at Ali Seys’ apartment. Guests took pictures and enjoyed their stay until it was time to travel on. Once everyone headed out, guests took a bus and traveled their way to Paris.

Historian Abby Brennan’s apartment was decorated in the spirit of the “City of Light.” Member Cindy Kirchner also baked and decorated Paris-themed cupcakes to serve. The apartment was filled with decorations and food that went along with the theme. To finish the night off, guests visited Ireland at director of development Sarah McSheffrey’s apartment. Guests were greeted with food and beverages while everyone danced the night away.


By Analita Voss

Tell us about yourself. 

I am a junior public relations major with a minor in writing. I am the youngest of five children, the only girl and a twin. I spent half of my childhood in Boston, and when I am not at school I live with my family in Grayslake, Ill.

What are you involved in outside of PRSSA?

For the past two years I have been a peer instructor for the Success 101 program, which is a course that helps first year students transition from high school to college. I also work as an assistant for the Watterson area office and currently hold two internships.

Could you tell us more about those internships?

Sure! I am a marketing and communications intern for Special Olympics Illinois working under Michele Evans, who has been an incredible mentor. On a daily basis, I help create all of the publications, such as writing and editing press releases, biographies, newsletters and feature stories. I have also helped compose press kits and design advertisements for events.

And what about your second internship?

This internship is more project-based. Throughout the semester, I have been working with the Student Government Association through the Dean of Students Office with John Davenport, the faculty advisor. The Student Government Association is in the middle of restructuring and updating their transition materials, and that is where I come in. Thankfully, I took COM 297, research methods, last semester. It has been a great help in the research and survey portion of this project. To put it simply, my job is to design a more clear and concise transition book for incoming members.

What do you enjoy most about your internships?

I really appreciate how much I have been able to get hands-on experience and apply some of the concepts I have learned in my classes to the work I produce. I also could not have better people supervising me. I thoroughly enjoy working with both Michele and John because they have really taken the time to teach me and allow me to build on my skill sets while creating a safe work environment where I am able to learn without fear of making mistakes.

How have your internships helped you as a public relations major?

Like I mentioned before, I have really been given a great opportunity to practice what I have learned in my classes. I think the best way to improve and apply knowledge is to get out there and do it. I suppose overall, I am learning to talk the talk and walk the walk!


Questions composed by Stacy Sullivan

1. You’ll gain experience you wouldn’t be able to learn inside a classroom.
   
2. You will learn leadership skills that you can use for the rest of your life.
   
3. You’ll create connections with professionals that will help you in your future endeavors.
   
4. You’ll make tons of new and amazing friends who have the same interests as you.
   
5. You will be a driving force behind one of the biggest and most highly-regarded Chapters in the nation.
   
6. You’ll learn professionalism on a whole new level, and be better prepared to join the workforce. 
   
7. It will be the time of your life, and you will love it! We promise :)
   

You should apply for President if…

• You like doing a little bit of everything
  
• You plan on devoting your life to PRSSA for a year
  
• You’re good at dealing with conflict and different personalities
  
• You like getting to know new people
  
• You are extremely organized and have great time management skills
  

You should apply for Vice President if…

• You want to create relationships between speakers and the Chapter
  
• You are good at reaching out to people even without past contact
  
• You are good at time management and organization
  
• You love PRSSA and want to help recruit new members
  

You should apply for National Liaison if…

• You like planning events
  
• You manage dealing with many people well
  
• You know how to handle stress and last minute problems
  

You should apply for Digital Media Director if…

• You are interested and immersed in all aspects of social media
  
• You are great at content creation
  
• You are always documenting everything (in your group of friends you are the photo-taker)
  
• You are great at web design
  

You should apply for Progressive Image Director if…

• You know how to manage teams and different personalities
  
• You’ve had previous experience with managing campaigns or clients
  
• You are good at working on multiple projects at once
  
• Any agency experience is a HUGE plus!
  

You should apply for Secretary if…

• You are a great listener and good at taking notes
  
• You are organized and good at drafting emails
  
• You are good at creating surveys and analyzing data
  
• You love organizing volunteer events
  

You should apply for Treasurer if…

• You are good at keeping track of and managing a budget
  
• You are good at dealing with numbers
  
• You are extremely organized and always follow deadlines
  

Interested dues-paying members should send their resume and a cover letter in one .pdf to [email protected] by Friday, March 28. The cover letter should include your top three position choices with a brief explanation of why. Finally, we suggest including one to two letters of recommendation as well. Qualified candidates will be contacted for interviews that will take place the following week. 


By Hailey Lanier, 2013-2014 President

Marvel movies aren’t going anywhere. Need proof? “Iron Man 3” was one of the highest-grossing films of 2013. “The Avengers” was a huge success both critically and commercially. And there are plenty more to come, starting with April's "Captain America: The Winter Soldier."

At this point, it’s safe to say that the characters of Marvel comics have become household names. The Avengers, however, are much more than an entertaining “super secret boy band” (in the ever-sarcastic words of Tony Stark). In fact, they can teach us a lesson or two about good public relations practices.

1. Iron Man – Innovate and stay on top of the latest technology…

For Tony Stark, it’s arc reactors, his robot personal assistant J.A.R.V.I.S. and the latest model of the Iron Man suit. For public relations professionals, it may be a hot new social media platform or app. This doesn’t mean you and your clients need to use every new thing that comes along, and quite frankly you shouldn’t. However, it’s still important to be aware of what’s trending in the market to stay smart and relevant. 


2. Captain America – …but sometimes the best way is the old-fashioned way.

Steve Rogers (better known as Captain America) brings 1940s morals and habits into the 21st century. Though Steve’s old-fashioned values are often played for humor, his leadership is crucial to the success of the Avengers. Often, it is Steve who reminds the team of what is truly important.

Similarly, even with all of our flashy digital toys, we should never forget that audience is the king. Interpersonal communication is the root of all communication, whether that’s actual face-to-face conversation or tweets and blog posts. That’s why it’s important to master basic skills like writing, research and public speaking. These skills are the core of public relations, just like Captain America’s traditional principles and ethics are, in many ways, the core of the Avengers. (Though Tony Stark would never publicly admit it.)

3. The Hulk – Take some time to de-stress.

Jobs in public relations often top “most stressful careers” lists, and that was true once again this year. A stressful job, however, is no excuse to “hulk out” and destroy everything in your path. It’s important for public relations professionals to develop ways to cope with everyday pressures – job related or otherwise. There are many ways to handle stress, including taking a walk or meditation. Sometimes, it’s helpful to just breathe and remind yourself: “It’s PR, not ER!” 

4. Thor – Coffee is great.

Enough said.

5. The Avengers – We are all different, but that’s what makes great teams work.

Public relations is a field driven by teamwork. Agencies and teams work best when everyone fills a niche. For example, you may be great at media relations, while your colleague is a social media pro. Similarly, in the Avengers, Black Widow is a master spy, Hawkeye is skilled with a bow and arrow and the Hulk is excellent when it comes to smashing things. Not everyone can smash, and that’s okay. In fact, it’s probably better that way.


By Abby Brennan

Maggie Ziemann, ISU PRSSA’s director of relations, is responsible for overseeing the Chapter blog PRecisely PR and the PRemier Newsletter. 

As a junior, how have you benefitted from joining ISU PRSSA?
I have been a member of Illinois State University’s PRSSA for two years now, and I have to say that joining PRSSA has been the best choice I’ve made here at ISU.  I have gained so much knowledge and met so many fantastic people. ISU PRSSA also offers awesome opportunities like going on agency tours, sitting in on panel discussions, and going to National Conference, where I made tons of great connections and met other awesome PRSSA members across the country!

What have you learned from your leadership role as the director of relations?
I have learned all the hard work that goes into managing publications. It is definitely a team effort, from the writer to all the people who edit and publish the work.  I have had the opportunity to meet so many members in our Chapter that I may not have met otherwise. As director, I have definitely learned the importance of time management.  It is like in the real world, where you have to stay on a schedule and do your best to produce quality work. It has been a great experience so far helping others produce writing pieces to build their portfolios.

What drew you to the public relations major?
When I was a junior in high school I was an editor for my school’s newspaper. Each year we attended a conference. The conference consisted of several seminars to choose to attend for the day. For one of the time slots none of the seminars really appealed to me so my friend told me to come with her to the public relations seminar and that’s where I first learned about the field. I immediately fell in love. I remember as the speaker was talking I just kept telling myself that one day I was going to work in public relations. I pursued that career path and I’m here today, still pursuing it and loving everything about it!

We love your blog, imPRess PR - what advice do you have for someone who wants to start their own?
Thank you! My advice is to not be afraid and to go for it! I have had so many people tell me that they want to start a blog but don’t know what they would write about. I have revamped my blog several times to fit the perfect niche I want it to have. My advice is to just start writing and see where it takes you. I used to blog about my personal accomplishments and then realized I wanted to go into a different direction. Be persistent and eventually it will come to you. Then, when you feel confident enough, tell others about your blog and you’ll begin to gain readership. Twitter is a great way to promote your posts and the public relations community on Twitter is so encouraging and welcoming. It’s a great support system! 

How do you manage your blog, leadership role, classes and still have personal free time?
I really take advantage of my planner and staying as organized as I can. Every Sunday I sit down and plan out my entire week ahead. To-do lists are my best friend. I make several lists for all the assignments that are due that week, then one for meetings, and then one for all the other things I need to do or go to. It really helps keep me on track. I have also discovered that the Reminders App on my iPhone is a lifesaver and anytime an event comes up or I need to remember to do something on a smaller scale of importance I plug it into my Reminders and set an alarm to remind me.

If you could do public relations for any brand, what company would it be and why?
I am really interested in agency public relations, but if I could work for a specific brand it would be for Starbucks. Not just because I practically live there, but I love the company as a whole; its mission, customer service, and the brand loyalty it has built. I love following all the happenings of the company. They write impressive press releases, have a great social media reputation and I love all their campaigns. And it’s an added bonus that they have great products!

If you were given one ultimate all-expense paid trip to anywhere in the world, where would you go?
Italy. I have always wanted to go there. To me, it’s the full package. You can enjoy beautiful weather with a gorgeous view while exploring iconic tourism spots. I have heard nothing but great things about all the food and drinks! 

We all have role models. Who is yours?
My role model is my mom. She has always been there, encouraging me every step of the way. She has worked so hard to put me through college, and I can just see in her face how proud she is whenever I accomplish something. It is a really rewarding feeling.  She is such a hard worker, and I hope to have her support the rest of my life. 

If you could only chose one for the rest of your life, which would get your pick: Social media or Starbucks?
Oh gosh, this is like my worst nightmare! I have never been asked this question before, and I never thought I would have to choose between the two! I think I would go with social media because I have gained so many great connections and opportunities through social media. I think it is such a powerful tool if you use it correctly. I do love Starbucks, but there are other places for me to grab my coffee fix! (Please forgive me, Starbucks!)

You have a free Saturday to binge watch any TV show of your choice. What would you choose?
“Desperate Housewives.” I watched all 10 seasons last semester and I got so emotionally invested. It is definitely my favorite TV series and I would not mind watching it again!

Questions composed by Melissa Fortes

On March 8, thirteen members of Illinois State University’s PRSSA Chapter attended “The Loop: A 360° Approach to Public Relations,” a 2014 PRSSA Regional Conference hosted by Columbia College Chicago PRSSA Chapter. ISU PRSSA members sure got a taste of Chicago after a full day of keynote speakers, sessions, lunch and of course multiple Starbucks runs! 

The Conference offered a 360° approach to public relations in Chicago by offering tours of several agencies located in the city on Friday, followed by a day of professional public relations speakers on Saturday. All attendees started the morning with hearing from keynote speaker Derek Cuculich, The Onion’s director of public relations and internal communications. In Cuculich’s keynote speech, “Five Essential PR Practices to Get You Noticed and Advance Your Career,” he laid out five tips that can boost your professional career. In order to ensure that you will get noticed and advance in your career, you must be available, network, follow up, form relationships and leave your ego at the door. Hearing from Cuculich was very motivating and set the tone for the rest of the day. Everyone was eager to dive into their day of professional development.

Each breakout session had an option of two sessions students were assigned to attend, with a total of six different breakout sessions. One of the first sessions was with Caleb Gardner, the current director of social media and content for Organizing for Action, who oversees President Barack Obama’s Twitter account. Gardener’s session, “How to Get and Avoid Press through Social Media,” was filled with helpful information, real-life stories and great feedback during his Q-and-A. Gardner left attendees with helpful tips when writing for social media, which included: write early because it takes time to create effective communication, slow down because less is more and that social media is a conversation. Gardner ended his session enforcing the importance of reading because the best writers are the best readers! The other session was with Kevin Saghy, the manager of communication for the Chicago Cubs, who was accompanied by previous intern Ellie Lange.  The two guests hosted an open forum that was moderated by PRSSA National president Brian Price.

After a great lunch with new friends, the Conference resumed right back to business and began with the afternoon sessions. The second breakout sessions were hosted by speakers Rolland Cailles and Ashley Lavore.  Cailles, the social media director at SuperFly, spoke about facing the obstacles as a millennial, and gave everyone an insight on the stereotypes millennials have to face in the workplace and how to overcome those obstacles.  Cailles left us with a few tips: find your niche, discover experiences, get made, master your 30-second elevator speech and earn it.  Cailles believes that it is important to do everything you can to stay creative; it will set you apart and show your individuality. Lavore talked about how to make money in non-profit and how to raise money for your non-profit foundation.

The last breakout session was with Tressa Robbins and John Bistolfo. Robbins is the vice president of implementation at BurrellesLuce. Her session, “Media Relations: Traditional, Digital, Social,” showed the different types of media relations and how to create the most effective communication. Robbins spoke that the most successful way to navigate the changing media landscape is to be where the audiences are, participating and directing the whole organization and that messages should work in tandem. She also spoke about the “K.I.S.S.” model and how keeping it short and simple will always create the most effective communication.  Bistolfo, the founder and design strategist of Bark Design hosted the “Graphic Design 101” session where he spoke about the importance of graphic design and how public relations professionals can communicate through messages and images.

Lastly, the closing keynote speakers were Ryan Beshel and Kate Jacobsen, whose session, “Runway to Reality: A Backstage Look into the World of Fashion PR,” was on how the fashion public relations industry works in Chicago and New York. This session offered information that applies to the dynamic public relations industry. This session was a great way to end the Conference because it was a fun and humorous way to tell the cold, hard truth of what public relations really entails, especially in the fashion PR industry.

The closing address speaker, PRSSA National President Brian Price, wrapped up the Conference speaking about public relations in Chicago with the help of a video created by Edelman Chicago. This type of opportunity that PRSSA offers its Chapters not only are informative and help build professional experience, but also allows time for Chapters to cultivate relationships within, network with other national Chapters and professionals. For ISU PRSSA’s Chapter attendees of “The Loop” PRSSA 2014 Regional Conference, it is safe to say all had a wonderful day in the Loop of the Windy City with the opportunity to experience a day revolved around public relations and its growing field in Chicago. 


By Ali Geary 

Beginning March 17, The Career Center and the School of Communication will kick off their annual Career Triathlon competition. To find out more about this exciting opportunity and how to get involved, we talked to the intern helping to plan it, Chelsea Gallagher.

Hi Chelsea! To start with, can you just explain what the Career Triathlon is and how students can compete?
Sure! The Career Triathlon is an event sponsored by ISU's Career Center and offered to only School of Communication (SOC) students. It's a three week long competition where students compete to see who can submit the best overall job application. Students are asked to submit a particular component each week.

Judges will pick the best applicants evaluating students on three parts including: a job application, an online interview, and a LinkedIn profile. Four finalists will be chosen from each SOC sequence and one grand prize winner will be announced during COM Week.

Great, thanks! So is the Career Triathlon open to any School of Communication student?
Yes! Every School of Communication student is able to participate, and will be competing against students in their sequence (Public relations, journalism, communication studies and mass media) to become a finalist for their declared major.

What are some of the prizes students can win and benefits of competing in the Career Triathlon?
One grand prize winner will be given a tablet, and the four finalists will be invited to attend the COM Week Awards and Scholarship luncheon, where they will have the opportunity to network with industry professionals. 

This is the first time the Career Institute has done an event like this. Why did they decide to partner with the School of Communication?
The School of Communication is filled with passionate students who are eager to gain experience and improve their professionals skills. The Career Center thought this would be a great opportunity to help SOC students improve themselves professionally, as well as educate them on some of the beneficial services they offer in the process.

Can you tell us a little bit about the planning process with the Career Center?
The planning process was a lot of collaboration between the Career Center's COM advisor, Renee Carrigan, and School of Communication advisors and interns. We tried to make the competition as convenient as possible for busy students, while still allowing them to reap the benefits this program has to offer.

Finally, as a fellow student and intern, what do you think is the number one reason students should compete in the Career Triathlon this year?
The Career Triathlon is just a great way to gain valuable experience in applying for jobs. Since a lot of us are nearing graduation, it's a great opportunity for seniors, juniors, and even underclassmen to get some practical experience while they begin their job search. Not to mention, you have the chance to win a tablet in the process.

For more information about the Career Triathlon, click here.


By Abby Brennan

With a new year come new laws, and that is definitely the case for 2014. One of the more notable ones is a ban on talking on the phone while driving. Talking and texting while driving are both dangerous and illegal acts, but reaching for our cell phones has become a natural habit. One father found a way to remind him to put down the phone and curb distracted driving: the “red thumb reminder.”

Steve Babock was inspired by his daughter to paint his thumbnail red. He saw her put a string around her finger as a reminder for something else at school. That is when Red Thumb Reminder was born. Babock calls it “an old-school solution to a new world problem.”

The process is simple: get red nail polish, paint your texting thumbnail red, and be reminded to put down the phone while you are driving.

The viral YouTube videos and #RedThumbReminder Instagram photos prove that this campaign isn’t going anywhere anytime soon and it’s having an impact on others to put the phone down.

Distracted diving has become an increasing issue, and automobile companies have been promoting anti-texting and driving campaigns for the past few years. However, Babock might have found an easy and effective campaign that could prevent distracted driving. I would not be surprised if automobile companies are not already knocking at his door to adopt this idea.

So, before you gas up for your next weekend trip home, try painting your thumbnail red, share a picture on Twitter or Instagram with #RedThumbReminder, and help put an end to distracted driving. 


By Ali Seys 

Spring break is a great way to take time to brush up on your public relations presence in all aspects.  This much needed break can be used for more than catching up on sleep. With no other school work to get in your way, take the time to get a head start on these things:

Start a Blog
Starting a blog is a great way to build your writing skills and create published work.  Blogs are a great conversation piece and can help get your name and your talent out in the public relations world.

Create/Touch Up Your Portfolio
At many of the agencies toured by Illinois State University’s PRSSA, professionals stress how important it is to have an updated and presentable portfolio.  Portfolios can be a hard-copy or an online portfolio.  If you have the time, create both! Your portfolio is a great way to showcase all of your previous work and skills for potential employers to look at.  Bringing your portfolio to an interview is recommended and some have said referring to your portfolio during an interview is encouraged.  Putting together a portfolio can be time consuming so take the long week and put together or touch up yours.

Update Your Resume
Almost all job and internship applications require you to submit a resume.  Many professionals in the public relations industry have said that one’s resume is the first thing they look at and if they are not impressed in a few seconds they will move on to the next resume.  Create a unique and creative resume, no more than a page long.

Read
Over break, take the time to read; whether is it is a good novel or staying up-to-date on a favorite blog.  Being familiar with what is happening in the world and in the news is very important in the public relations industry.  Read the newspaper, stay on top of big news and read blogs. 

Brush Up on Your Social Media Presence
Social media plays an important role in the public relations industry as well.  Although it may seem simple to create a social media account, it takes a lot more to maintain its presence.  Take the time to create a name for yourself on your digital platform.  Follow others in the public relations industry on Twitter (trust me, there are a lot of them) and start a conversation.  This is a great way to create connections and build relationships.


By Maggie Ziemann