Posted by Joslyn McArdle
PRSSA Chapter Liaison, Capital Region Chapter
Years ago, when I was in college, I was introduced to a “club” called PRSSA (Public Relations Student Society of America) through my public relations writing class. I just wanted to get my education and get out of the Buffalo area, so I thought “I’m not joining any club.” But I decided to attend a meeting and discovered students from all different backgrounds of study looking to be part of PRSSA. I volunteered for a vacant spot on the board (secretary, ’cause I figured I can take notes, how bad can that be!) It turned out to be a great place to make new friends, especially since I was a transfer student. We held events, went to regional conferences and provided both an academic and professional support system. I quickly learned how great this organization was. That spring I was elected to be a delegate to PRSSA’s National Assembly, and by the end of that semester I was elected president for the following year. How fast things tend to move.
Now fast-forward a bit. It’s spring of 2012. Our Capital Region PRSA Chapter has had some great things happening, but I think our most exciting news is that we are now the official sponsor of our first PRSSA chapter, at SUNY Plattsburgh.
It’s an amazing opportunity for all involved. We can provide guidance to these up and coming PR professionals of the future, while the students can utilize our PRSA network and scout out internships. (all the opportunities I had, when I was that student, many years ago!)
We are very impressed with the students from Plattsburgh. They’re students, and yet in many senses, they’re real professionals. Last year, the school’s student-run PR Firm was even a finalist for one of our Empire Awards. As this year moves forward, please welcome these newcomers into the world of PRSA and the Capital Region Chapter.