Four Reasons to Attend This Year’s National Assembly
If you ask any young professional what they remember most from their time in PRSSA, the national events are sure to top the list. Local Chapter events, socials, fundraisers and community service efforts are enjoyable, but national events bond together all types of members in a way that local events can’t.
The next national event is the National Assembly. This year’s Assembly will be held in Austin, Texas, from March 3–6. If you’re still on the fence about attending, here’s why you won’t want to miss out:
1. Your voice is going to be heard.
If you attend National Assembly as a delegate, your role is very important and focuses on the future. By listening to speeches from National Committee candidates and reviewing potential national Bylaw changes, delegates directly help shape the Society’s future. Make your voice count by attending as a delegate. Remember, if your Chapter is already sending a delegate you can always attend as a non-delegate. — or, even better yet, run for National Committee yourself.
2. There are attendee benefits.
Not only will your voice be heard, but your resume can gain an extra boost as well. Showing a potential employer your willingness to represent your Chapter is a great way to highlight your go-getter attitude. You’ll also get to hear from some amazing professionals, such as Sunday’s keynote speaker, David Grossman, ABC, APR, Fellow PRSA. Additionally, attendees will have the opportunity to put their skills to the test by competing for cash prizes at the Day-of Competition.
Plus, there are major financial perks of being your Chapter’s delegate — PRSSA National covers the cost of your hotel and registration.
3. New connections await.
My first event with PRSSA was the 2014 Assembly. Before attending, I only knew people in my Chapter. After leaving, I knew public relations students from across the nation. Assembly is the perfect chance to get to know members from other schools, since there are a lot of lone wolves — or, members who are the only one from their Chapter — in attendance.
4. Austin is a dynamic city.
You can make the most of your National Assembly trip by exploring the city in your free time. Austin is #1 on Forbes’ list of America’s Fastest-Growing Cities and listed among the top 15 cities for young adults, making it a great place for college students to get to know. There are impressive professional opportunities in the areas of business and technology, as well as some top-notch music and food events. Ever heard of South by Southwest (SXSW) or Austin Food + Wine Festival? Both of those major events are hosted in Austin. For more about the public relations industry in Austin, check out our City Series article.
If you need any more reasons to attend or have any questions, please send me an email at ldaronatsy@gmail.com. Remember, it is best to register early and the deadline is Feb. 5. I can’t wait to see you in Austin!
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Laura Daronatsy is serving as the PRSSA 2015–2016 National President, and is an alumnae of Biola University in La Mirada, California.
