Meet the Fall 2014 Relations Committee Manager: Ali Geary

Tell us about yourself.          

I am a second semester junior and hold the position of relations manager for the Illinois State University Chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America. I am pursuing a degree in public relations with a minor in Spanish. When I am not busy working toward my degree or managing various PRSSA duties, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, and taking part in 5k runs for charity, a new hobby of mine.

What are your responsibilities as relations manager?

 As relations manager, I am responsible for delegating responsibilities to the newsletter and blog chairs.  In addition, I am responsible for having a complete understanding of the committee. I edit all Chapter publications, as well as create the committee's editorial calendar. I am also in charge of starting conversations within committee meetings about current events for prospective newsletter articles and blog posts. I also work with the new position of alumni chair on the alumni newsletter. I believe that being involved in this part of the Chapter has improved my writing and editing skills, as well as opened my eyes to current events and public relations crises.

What lead you to choose public relations?

I have been involved in PRSSA for two years now and came to the decision to pursue public relations after taking my general education courses. I excelled in reading and English, which lead to my choice to major in public relations.  It is my passion for writing and love for connecting with people that contribute to my overall interest in public relations. I feel that as long as I enjoy these things, I will never lose passion for this profession.

What internship positions have you held?

Throughout my academic career, I have held multiple internship positions, which have allowed me to practice public relations writing and social media outreach. These internships include working for the Illinois State University Hockey team, ISU Health Promotion and Wellness Center, Chicago Twenty Something marketing team, and Campus Recreation marketing department.

Tell us about your future semester abroad.

My experiences and passions have led me to decide to study abroad in Granada, Spain during the spring 2015 semester. During my time in Spain, I want to increase my fluency in Spanish, as well as embrace the distinct culture that Spain has to offer. I hope this program will open the door to an internship at the University of Granada and help pave the path to a job that incorporates international affairs or involves traveling. 

Questions composed by Emily Raschke

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