Progressions

My PRSSA Journey: From Aspiring Student to Chapter Leader

As I look back on my academic and professional journey, I feel compelled to share the profound impact that the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) has had on my development. My name is Korpo Parks, and my involvement with PRSSA at the University of South Florida (USF) has been a pivotal aspect of my growth as both a student and a leader.

My PRSSA journey began during my sophomore year when I took on the role of Director of Marketing at my Chapter for the 2022-2023 academic year. This position allowed me to refine my skills in strategic communication, social media, and campaign management. However, it was my election as president of the USF PRSSA Chapter during my junior year that truly marked a significant turning point in my leadership development. Faced with the challenge of revitalizing a Chapter that had struggled in recent years, I set out to rebrand and rejuvenate our organization.

Upon assuming the role of president, my primary goal was to rebuild a vibrant community of students eager for professional development and networking opportunities. I focused on creating a close-knit executive team dedicated to the Chapter’s success. Our efforts were directed toward increasing engagement and membership, leading to several key initiatives and achievements.

One of our most significant accomplishments was the launch of the USF PRSSA Mentorship Program in the spring semester of 2024. For the first time, 21 enthusiastic students participated in a structured mentoring experience, connecting with upperclassmen and gaining invaluable insights into the field of public relations. This program became a cornerstone of our efforts to provide practical, hands-on learning opportunities and foster new connections and friendships within our Chapter.

Under my leadership, we saw substantial growth in our membership base. We increased our dues-paying members from zero to 21 and expanded our email list to over 140 interested students. Our social media presence also experienced a notable boost, with our Instagram following rising from 600 to 800 followers. These milestones reflect our ability to engage and connect with our audience, transforming USF PRSSA into a thriving organization for students interested in public relations. Additionally, we took proactive steps to ensure the Chapter’s financial sustainability by establishing a bank account with the USF Federal Credit Union, highlighting our commitment to ethical financial management and the long-term stability of the organization.

Our efforts extended beyond internal growth to fostering meaningful external collaborations. We partnered with professional organizations such as Tampa Bay PRSA, hosting a resume review session and integrating our student members into their professional mentorship program. These collaborations offered our members valuable opportunities for professional growth, leading several to secure internships and jobs in PR. We also built strong relationships with other campus clubs and organizations, such as AMA and AAF, and collaborated with the University of Tampa PRSSA Chapter to host a networking night featuring guest panelists who provided invaluable advice to our members.

Serving as President of USF PRSSA has been a transformative experience, shaping my understanding of leadership, collaboration, and professional ethics. This role has deepened my commitment to the principles upheld by PRSSA and PRSA, including integrity, continuous learning, and community building. Leading this organization has not only enhanced my public relations skills but also reinforced my dedication to creating a supportive environment for aspiring PR professionals.

As my journey with PRSSA continues, I encourage all PR students to join this dynamic organization. Whether you are a student seeking to develop your professional skills, a future leader eager to make an impact, or someone passionate about public relations, PRSSA offers unparalleled opportunities for growth and networking. By becoming a member, you will gain access to a wealth of resources, mentorship, and a supportive community dedicated to your success. Thanks to USF PRSSA, I have received several scholarships, a registration and travel grant to attend ICON 2024 in California, and the invaluable opportunity to be mentored by two exceptional female leaders from PRSA Tampa Bay. Their guidance was instrumental in refining my resume and LinkedIn profile, ultimately helping me secure amazing internships with leading agencies.

My experience with PRSSA has been instrumental in my personal and professional development. The opportunities for leadership, collaboration, and growth have been irreplaceable, and I encourage all aspiring PR professionals to join PRSSA and embark on a journey that promises to be as rewarding and transformative as mine has been.