Monday, December 6, 2010

Sophomore takes experiences to professional setting

After only one semester of working for Waynesburg University’s Office of University Relations, I have gained valuable experience from the writing opportunities and atmosphere alike.

I doubt that I would have been eligible for the position at University Relations if not for my involvement with the PRSSA. As a freshman, I occupied myself with the workings of the chapter and committed myself to positions that would enable future leadership. 

I’m sure that the University Relations position wouldn’t have come as naturally to me if not for the communication courses I took as a freshman. Print Journalism honed and shaped my writing abilities to the extent that I now write press releases for the university on a weekly basis. Public relations courses educated me on the professional etiquette that would prove useful in the Office of University Relations. 

The opportunity to work with such an experienced crew of writers and public relations professionals could not have been possible without the classroom instruction and practical application I have acquired through professional development conferences made available by the PRSSA. 

I didn’t realize how much of an asset a functioning public relations chapter is until I started to work in an environment that required public relations knowledge, skills, and professionalism. All of the speakers and conferences that I have attended through the PRSSA have greatly augmented my understanding of the field.
I will feel much more confident when it comes to applying for internships and jobs because Waynesburg University provides its students such great opportunities to explore their majors in a hands-on way. 

Sam Scribner (@SamScribner)
Waynesburg University PRSSA Vice President, former Treasurer
Sophomore Public Relations Major