Students interested in strengthening their education, expanding their network and taking the right steps to begin their career filled room 352 of the Student Center on Sept. 17 to learn more about EMU's Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA).
PRSSA's mission is to "enhance members' knowledge ... in order to provide the public relations and related fields, local and abroad, with the most qualified, well-informed and honorable professionals."
Once seated, students could find a pumpkin to decorate and forms to fill out regarding their interest in PRSSA.
Brittany Battista, president of PRSSA, suggests that all students get involved in this organization but especially those interested in marketing, journalism, communications or public relations.
"PRSSA is the foremost national organization for students in public relations, communications and other related fields,“ Battista said. "It's important for students interested in these fields to get involved because PRSSA offers opportunity to enhance their education, broaden their network and launch their career.”
Many of the student organizations at EMU offer benefits such as making new friends or learning a new skill. PRSSA, however, offers a wide range of benefits to help one prepare for their future career.
“PRSSA membership offers access to valuable networking forums, conferences, job resources and scholarship opportunities,“ Battista said. "In addition, our chapter is driven to help our members gain the experience and practical knowledge employers are seeking and we do so by offering professional development workshops, networking opportunities and more.”
Owen Tague, vice president of finance, acts as treasurer for PRSSA.
“[PRSSA] is really great for networking and career building,” Tague said. "Especially with the agency tours, leadership opportunities and the Student Development Conference coming at the end of the semester. Also, it is a great way to get to know other students who have the same or similar major as you.”
Tague said he hopes this event allowed students to get familiar with members and potential new members of PRSSA.
“This was more of an introductory event as all we did was decorate pumpkins and enjoy some autumn cuisine, donuts and cider,” he said. "Of course, there were some announcements about what to expect this year for PRSSA, as we have some big things planned.”
PRSSA treated students with free donuts and apple cider.
Tague encourages incoming PRSSA members to attend as many meetings as possible and take advantage of all that their organization has to offer.
“If you can attend the meetings, by all means do,” he said. "It really helps the other members get to know you better, which will also help you if you are interested in becoming a member of the E-board. Also, go to all the agency tours if you can and the SDC later this semester. They are all such great opportunities.”
To learn more about PRSSA and upcoming events, visit their Instagram or Facebook.
