Progressions

Welcoming New Members: A Guide to Building Involvement

I’ll never forget walking into my first PRSSA event as a nervous sophomore. It was a Jeopardy-themed panel where members asked questions to the panelists from both the agency and in-house sectors.

I had recently switched my major to public relations and advertising, and did not know much about the field. My professor offered extra credit for attending a PRSSA event, so there I was, convinced that everyone already knew each other, and afraid of feeling left out.

My fears faded away as soon as I walked in. I was welcomed with huge smiles and some snacks. Although feeling slightly better, I still sat quietly at first; I only came for extra credit.

By the end of the event, I was inspired. I spent much of my life not knowing what I wanted to do with my career. Then, I had the opportunity to hear straight from professionals about where my degree could lead me. I left the event feeling electrified. I was finally on the right track. I felt hopeful that this organization could help me find my place and figure out my future in public relations.

As Chapter leaders, it’s easy to forget that feeling, the nervousness of walking into a room full of strangers, not knowing what to expect, but hoping to find connection and community. That first experience is exactly what shapes how new members see PRSSA. The way we design our events, interact with members, and build community can be exactly what makes someone want to stick around for the next event. So what does that actually look like in practice?

Strategic Planning

When planning Chapter events, consistency is key. You should have events constantly scheduled throughout the year and be strategic about when you plan them. Students have lives outside PRSSA, so skip Fridays and weekends if you can help it.

A sure-fire way to keep members engaged throughout the year is to give them something to work on. If your Chapter doesn’t already have initiatives like an agency or a district conference to plan, consider finding a client partnership. Reach out to your professional adviser to help connect you with a client that’s a good fit for your Chapter. Doing tangible work helps members feel fulfilled and keeps them invested. Once you get started, these are budget-friendly, consistent dates on the calendar for purposeful meetings that students will be eager to attend.

Create Space for Real Connections

The best events aren’t just about the content; they’re about the conversations that happen before, during, and after. That’s why it’s helpful to incorporate networking time. This can be as easy as a Q&A with guest speakers or as chilling as the dreaded icebreaker. Hyperboles aside, icebreakers can be rather effective if done correctly. Making them interactive and fun gives people a reason to move around the room and talk to each other, not just sit and listen. A quality ice breaker can recharge the energy of the room and help newcomers make new connections.

Be a Familiar Face

One of the most effective strategies my Chapter has used to engage new students and boost membership is classroom visits to introductory and required major courses, where we share a short 10-15 minute presentation about the benefits of getting involved. See the DePaul PRSSA presentation here.

These classroom visits aren’t just great for recruitment; they help build recognition and familiarity. When students see a friendly, approachable face from PRSSA, they’re more likely to reach out or attend an event. That encouragement to get involved can guide curious students into becoming committed members.

Listen to Your Members

It can be discouraging to put a lot of effort into planning an event only to have a couple of

people attend. The best way to boost attendance is to ask members what they want to see. Host open e-board sessions, send out polls, or simply talk to students and ask! When members feel heard, they become invested.

Also, committed members usually want to stay involved, which helps with executive board recruitment!

Build Community AND Your Resume

PRSSA is so much more than a resume builder. Yes, professional development matters, but so does having fun. Mix in social events alongside the panels and workshops. When your Chapter feels like a genuine community, members don’t just show up out of obligation, they show up because they want to be there. Before you know it, you have trained leaders, welcoming in the next round of nervous members walking into their first event.

Through PRSSA, I found both a community and confidence in my career path. I am passionate about helping others feel that same sense of belonging. When Chapter leaders create spaces that are welcoming, we help inspire future professionals and create a community that lasts beyond our college years. Members might be lured in to join by the professional skill-building, but it’s the community building that keeps them coming back.