Opportunities that Inspire, Connect, and Transform
As vice president of my PRSSA Chapter at the Universidad del Sagrado Corazón in San Juan, Puerto Rico, I’m constantly asked: “Why should I join PRSSA?” or “What’s the value of PRSSA?” The answer I usually give touches on three key points, along with other additional topics:
- The value PRSSA membership adds to the college experience
- Networking opportunities with professionals
- Expanding knowledge in public relations
However, I had never found a single word capable of fully describing PRSSA.
PRSSA has offered me countless opportunities throughout my years as a student. This organization has allowed me to grow as a leader, gain experience in strategic decision-making, and learn continuously through the various resources PRSSA provides. One of the most recent opportunities I’ve had, thanks to PRSSA, was attending the 2025 Leadership Assembly in Charlotte, North Carolina.
At this incredible three-day event, I was not only able to represent my local Chapter but also my country, Puerto Rico. I met amazing students from different states and countries, such as Mexico, Peru, Argentina, and Wisconsin, USA. One of the most valuable parts of the assembly was the chance to connect with industry professionals and speakers. These speakers shared insights on topics like community engagement, the student-to-professional transition and diversity and inclusion in leadership. I’m especially grateful to Ken Hagihara, APR, Fellow PRSA, and Garry McCormick, APR, Fellow PRSA, for their mentorship and guidance regarding my career in public relations.
After returning home and reflecting on the experience, I finally found the word I’d been searching for: opportunity. PRSSA is opportunity. The opportunity to collaborate. The opportunity to serve. The opportunity to learn and grow.
PRSSA provides the chance to develop as a future professional and put your skills into action. We can define opportunity as “a favorable or advantageous moment or circumstance for something.”1 Now is the perfect time to be a part of this incredible organization and take full advantage of the opportunities it offers.
Thanks to PRSSA and the chance to attend the Leadership Assembly, I now have more knowledge to give back to my Chapter. I’m excited to share with them all the opportunities PRSSA offers its members — from scholarships and professional development like FINN Partners for Diversity, to job and training opportunities, networking, and beyond… opportunities.
“Success is where preparation and opportunity meet.” — Bobby Unser
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Nayelis Pastrana is from Luquillo, Puerto Rico. She is currently in her fifth year pursuing a Double Bachelor’s Degree in Strategic Communication and Business Management at the Universidad del Sagrado Corazón in San Juan, Puerto Rico. For the past three years, she has worked as a receptionist, gaining experience in the operational, cultural, and financial aspects of the corporate world. She is passionate about designing experiences that position a brand in the consumer’s mind.
