PRSSA turns students into professionals

schedule 2 min read

Though they have only been established since 2009, UVU’s chapter of the Public Relation Student Society of America has been very successful. They currently have 65 members, have placed in the top 10 in the nation in a competitive competition and have visited Washington D.C. for a national conference. Photo courtesy of UVU PRSSA

The Public Relations Student Society of America works to engage public relation students in many ways, including creating relationships and networks between students and professionals. Many members get expert experience that can lead to great opportunities outside of the club.

Farah Chase-Dunn started this club to encourage students and give them an understanding of current theories, procedures and principles of public relations professions. The club was established in March of 2009 and is currently active with 65 members.

PRSSA has had a successful journey in the past year, placing UVU in the nation’s top 10 for the National Bateman Case Study Competition, an annual competition that gives students the chance to solve problems and think analytically in a public relations situation. UVU has quickly integrated with other achievements and its surrounding communities through service projects and professional development activities.

To join PRSSA, go to Campus Connections and pay the $60 club fee. Of that $60, $50 of it goes to the national fund and the other $10 goes directly to UVU’s club. Bring your receipt to the Communications department for verification.

Members meet on campus in the Communication department to plan and create events. These events are presented by the PRSSA presidency. The current president is Angela Kroneberger.

“Public Relations students have a great opportunity to join a nationally known pre-professional organization. As a member of PRSSA, you will have travel opportunities for national events, networking with PR professionals, obtain access to a variety of internships and enhance your Public Relations skills,” said Kroneberger.

The UVU PRSSA is hosting and planning an etiquette dinner to give the students an opportunity to network with professionals, have a fundraising activity and expand their knowledge of the profession.

The etiquette dinner is on December 1, 2010 from 6:00-8:30 p.m. in the UVU ballroom. The tickets are $15 per person for a five-course meal and a presentation by an etiquette professional who previously worked for Citibank North America in San Francisco and Lands’ End’s corporate headquarters in Wisconsin.

Visit www.PRSSA.org/About for more information about PRSSA.