Join: PRSSA
Written by Stevie Loop
PRSSA members at the 2012 national conference.
Are you looking to get an internship this summer but don’t know where to start? How about joining Columbia’s chapter of PRSSA (Public Relations Student Society of America)? President of PRSSA and senior marketing major, Ashley Lavore, credits her involvement with PRSSA for all of her job opportunities and internships. “It’s the only way to get your foot in the door,” she says. “You need to be involved in an organization to get an internship.”
Luke Crawford, Director of Special Events for PRSSA, agrees that the networking opportunities are incredible. “We get to go to the Aon Center for events and meet senior executives from companies like Edelman and Ogilvie. And now I have their business cards and emails. You can actually walk in and give them your resume.”
Crawford says he initially joined just a few weeks ago to get more involved and network in the PR industry. “I just jumped in with both feet and it was a warm, wonderful pool,” he laughs. “I went to a social that was so fun where we made great contacts.”
Freshman and Special Events Coordinator at PRSSA, Evelina Lisauskaite, joined for the opportunity to learn more about public relations. “I’m still not sure what I want to do and this is an opportunity for me to learn from more experienced students and grow into a career.”
Now is a great time to get involved, especially if you’re a marketing student. Columbia is co-hosting the regional PRSSA conference on March 23rd and there are 10-15 free passes open to interested students. This year, the focus is on non-profit organizations’ role in the community. “It’s a big deal for Columbia to get to co-host the event. I think it’s the first time we’ve done it,” Lavore says. “I’m really excited.” If you are interested in attending, just email kollin.lephart@loop.colum.edu to fill out some forms and get more information. It’s a don’t-miss opportunity.
“I know some people are on the fence about getting involved in PRSSA, but it’s just the easiest thing to do,” Lavore promises. “Just show up at a meeting.”
PRSSA meets every Tuesday at 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm in the 8th floor Marketing Conference Room at 624 S. Michigan. Find out more about PRSSA on their facebook page or follow them on twitter @columbiaprssa.
