Within the Department of Communication, there are many ways students can get involved within their major. One of those clubs is PRSSA, a Public Relations firm that is helping local businesses strategize their public outreach. With students running the club, they can gain real life public relations experience and build their resume.
“PRSSA is a student-run, nationally affiliated PR firm at Monmouth University that works with local clients to fulfill their PR needs,” senior communication student and PRSSA co-president, Ashley Schumacher, said.
PRSSA helps students in the Public Relations (PR)/Journalism cluster of the communications major gain real-world experience. By building skills, students may stand out to employers.
Schumacher continued, “Students benefit by applying their classroom knowledge to real projects and gaining hands-on experience in managing and creating materials from start to finish. This not only helps them build their skills but also strengthens their portfolios. Companies gain fresh perspectives and tailored solutions that meet their specific needs!”
According to forbes.com, good PR can help make brands more credible, strengthen their image, establishes brand and customer relationships, and creates an identity for your business. By joining PRSSA, PR students can develop the skills and expertise to help these businesses. This is a rewarding experience helps students graduate confidently and ready for their career.
Bailey Fredericks, senior communication student, Lifestyle/Managing Editor for “The Outlook,” and co-president of PRSSA, said, “I first joined PRSSA in the fall of sophomore year. When the Digital Content Creator e-board position opened up in the spring of that year, I knew I had to apply. Luckily, I got the position and was able to build my portfolio by expressing my creativity through social media outlets for a nationally affiliated firm. I stayed as the Content Creator up until this fall, when I assumed the role as Co-president. It has definitely been a lot of work, but it’s a great experience that helps develop my professional PR skills.”
Building professional portfolios is crucial for students resumes, “PRSSA is a great resume-builder for students who want to improve their resumes and gain more experience in the field. Involvement also offers students the opportunity to build their portfolios with work samples. It is also a great way to meet other students on campus,” said Professor Mary Harris, APR, Specialist Professor of Public Relations in the Department of Communication, and Advisor of PRSSA.
The Executive Board of PRSSA has found their experience to be rewarding. Anya Stuckert, a senior communications student, is the Firm Director. Her role is to “oversee communication between Shadow PR and our clients, ensuring smooth collaboration and quality public relations services.”
She emphasized, “Through my involvement, I have not only gained skills but also secured an internship. I highly encourage anyone seeking real-world experience and opportunity in PR to join!”
“It has also been a great opportunity to be more involved on campus and meet other students who share similar career interests,” said Sofia Vitagliano, a senior communications student and Director of Events for PRSSA.
Schumacher continued, “Companies gain fresh perspectives and tailored solutions that meet their specific needs.”
PRSSA meets every Wednesday at 3:00 p.m. in Plangere Room 234. Students can also follow PRSSA on Instagram @monmouthshadowpr!
