I’ve been there too.
I became an active member the Robert E. Rayfield Chapter of PRSSA just last semester and I had no idea where to begin. After attending multiple PRSSA events like the National Conference in Boston, Global Results Communications Bootcamp and every industry panel hosted at CSUF I was eager to gain some experience in the field.
So… I joined a committee.
I first joined the University Relations Committee in October. In my time there I was able to learn more about CICC, and I quickly realized the importance of facilitating relationships with other organizations on campus. While serving on the committee, we communicated with the other clubs on campus and prepared for our Conference, Next Generation PR.
There are many skills that I’ve learned as a committee member. To put it nicely, my email skills were lacking before I joined the University Relations Committee. I checked my emails maybe three times a week, and I had no clue how to use Google Drive to its full potential.
Once I joined a committee, Google Drive immediately became my best friend. My email competency and response time improved dramatically within the first few weeks alone.
After some time with the University Relations Committee, I decided to expand my skill set through new tasks by joining the Outreach Committee.
Though it is challenging at times, the experience of being part of the Outreach team is equally as exciting. I’ve had opportunities to network and connect with my fellow PRSSA members in new ways. From tabling at Homecoming and DiscoverFest, pitching our Chapter to communications classes around campus and preparing for Regional Conference, it’s been a wonderful learning opportunity (not to mention a great resume booster).
If you want to get the most out of your PRSSA experience, get involved. Join a committee. Who knows? Maybe we’ll see you running for the executive board in April.
