The Benefits of Joining PRSA

Photo courtesy of creativecommons.org.
Photo courtesy of creativecommons.org.

The transition from college to the real world can be really scary You now have to worry about paying bills,  finding a full-time job in your desired career field — the list goes on and on. One of the most valuable resources for young public relations professionals during this time is PRSA — PRSSA’s parent organization.

PRSA was chartered in 1947 and is now the world’s largest group of public relations professionals. The Society’s mission includes advocating for greater understanding of public relations, providing professional development opportunities and promoting ethics within the industry through the PRSA Code of Ethics.

Dr. Kevin Trowbridge, a professor at Belmont University and co-chair of PRSA Nashville’s Accreditation Committee, believes it is important for recent grads to look into joining PRSA.

PRSSA and PRSA are among the best entry points into the profession,” he said. “Getting involved with PRSSA early in one’s college career demonstrates a commitment to professional development that is impressive to many prospective employers.”

PRSSA, and PRSA allows young professionals to connect with colleagues who share the same passion in communications.

“There are countless benefits of PRSA membership for the young, aspiring professional, including mentoring, networking, access to internship and job opportunities and, of course, on-going professional development,” said Trowbridge.

Students are also able to get a jump-start on joining PRSA as students in PRSSA.

“PRSSA members don’t have to wait until they graduate to get involved with PRSA,” Trowbridge said. “I encourage students to attend local Chapter meetings, volunteer to serve at local Chapter events and begin making connections with local professionals.”

PRSSA National Immediate Past President Laura Daronatsy has gotten a head start on becoming an active PRSA member by volunteering with her local Chapter, PRSA Colorado, and joining PRSA New Pros Section.

“Go into every position or opportunity with a team player attitude,” said Daronatsy in an email. “Be thoughtful, kind and have a positive attitude — it’ll go farther than you think.”

Although the future may seem daunting, PRSA is there to help new young professionals prepare for the future.

Cayli Allen is a public relations major at Belmont University in Nashville, TN, where she serves as the Chapter secretary of PRSSA and is a member of PRSSA National’s Industry News Committee. She also works in the marketing department of RFD-TV and plans to go into the entertainment field. You can chat with her on Twitter: @Cayli_Allen.

 

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