Public Relations Student Society of America is Fundamentally for Everyone: Why All Students Can Benefit From PRSSA

Creativity is the core of Public Relations and every career path is in desperate need of creativity thus meaning Public Relations Student Society of America at Illinois State University is the perfect Registered Student Organization for every major. I started my journey with PRSSA in November 2018 as a general member. My first chapter meeting was very impressionable. As I walked through the double doors of Schroeder 138, I was greeted by several members of the executive board. Specifically, Maddie Rose who was the Director of Progressive Image approached me and said “Welcome! I haven’t seen you at other meetings, thanks for coming,” She didn’t ask me why I was there, how I found the organization or even what my major was. There was no agenda behind her welcome, there was only genuine gratitude for my presence. I felt welcomed and at home and since that first meeting,

​I attended chapter every Tuesday. I learned so many professional development skills as I was exposed to LinkedIn workshops, networking seminars and a multitude of guest speakers. After learning more about the organization I decided to become a dues-paying member. I gained access to a career-specific job center and unlimited free agency tours. Sometime later I decided to apply for an executive position and gained not only amazing resume building skills and exposure to character-building opportunities but also an extended family that will serve as a lifelong network.
     According to PRSA.org “at its core, public relations is about influencing, engaging and building a relationship with key stakeholders across numerous platforms to shape and frame the public perception of an organization.” Imagine yourself as an organization or business, PRSSA can assist you on so many levels. Consider branding yourself to the point of your name being so influential that your presence is known and appreciated in every room that you're in. Perfect your elevator pitch and make a positive and lasting impression on every executive you speak with. Dive into the world of stories and discover your autonomy. If you ask me, learning and implementing networking skills are as essential to the college experience as attending classes and bar crawls. I strongly encourage all students from any major to stop by a meeting or two, what you’ll gain will be well worth the hour.

​By: Taneka Newman