Q: What is PRSSA?
PRSSA is a pre-professional, not-for-profit organization designed to prepare students for a career in public relations. The Robert E. Rayfield chapter of PRSSA was founded in 1960. Today, our chapter is one of the largest PRSSA chapters in the state as well as the largest student organization within the College of Communications.
Q: What does PRSSA do?
Most of our member events consist of 1-3 speakers ranging from topics from Fashion PR to Crisis Communications. We also work closely with our parent chapter OC/PRSA. In spring 2011, we plan to grow our student-run firm, attend networking and professional events, attend agency tours and attend the PRSSA National Conference.
Q: What are the benefits of PRSSA?
- Networking with students and professionals in the field
- Access to PR agency tours
- Access to PRSA Job Center
- Access to PRSSA Bi-weekly update
- Reduced cost to PRSSA 2011 National Conference, PRSSA Regional Activities, OC/PRSA events, and PRSA membership (following graduation)
- Internship and scholarship opportunities
- FUN!!
- Read more about PRSSA benefits here: http://prssa.org/about/benefits.aspx
Q: How can I stay connected to PRSSA?
- Get to know the board members
- Attend fundraisers such as Cantina Lounge events
- Attend OC/PRSA monthly luncheons (visit http://www.ocprsa.org for more details)
- Attend all meetings.
- NETWORK! Make friends and meet new people.
- Follow us on Twitter (@CSUFPRSSA)
- Join our Facebook group (Cal State Fullerton PRSSA)
Q: I’m not a public relations major, why should I join?
In any field, the ability to effectively communicate is a skill that all employers look for. PRSSA teaches students how to network and develop their written and verbal communication skills. Resume and cover letter, dining etiquette, and social media etiquette are some examples of career development workshops offered by PRSSA. You may also want to consider a minor in public relations! For more information, visit CP-400 or http://communications.fullerton.edu/undergraduate/minors.html.
Q: I am a freshman. Is it too early to join PRSSA?
It is never too early to join PRSSA! You will truly have a leg up if you participate in PRSSA early. Because the Principles of PR course isn’t offered to freshmen or sophomores, PRSSA is a great way to learn about public relations outside of the classroom. Also, it is never too early to start networking!!
Q: How can I contribute to PRSSA?
Join a committee! We are looking for committee members to support outreach, special events, special projects, fundraising, and publicity.
Q: Are there board positions available?
Board elections will be held in March 2012. If you are interested in running for a position in the spring, we highly encourage you to let a board member know so that we can mentor you for the position. We are more than happy to give you the opportunity to shadow a board member. You can also sit on one of our committees! Becoming a board member builds leadership skills and stands out on a resume.
Q: What is PRSSA National Conference?
From http://www.prssa.org/conference:
The PRSSA National Conference is a five day professional development and networking event where students and practitioners from across the country meet to discuss the field of public relations, new trends in the industry and skill building tactics. 1000 students from over 300 PRSSA chapters are expected to attend.
Conference highlights include: Professional Development Sessions, Resume Critique session, Career Development Exhibition, PRSA General Sessions, interactive panels, evening socials, Chapter Development Sessions, Officer Roundtables, networking opportunities and much more! The Conference is held in conjunction with the 2010 PRSA International Conference. Visit http://www.prssa.org/conference for more information.
Q: When is the PRSSA 2011 National Conference?
The event is October 14-18, 2011 in Orlando, Fla. Registration is open until September 12, 2011 at http://www.prssa.org/conference.
Q: What is the PRSSA National Committee?
From http://www.prssa.org/about:
The PRSSA National Committee is comprised of 14 members: the National President, the Immediate Past President, seven Vice Presidents, the FORUM Editor-in-Chief, the PRSA Board Liaison, the PRSSA Director, the National Faculty Advisor and the National Professional Advisor. The student members are elected (National President and Vice Presidents) or appointed May 31 of the following year. As a member of the Society, you have the opportunity to run for an office on the National Committee; not only is this a phenomenal leadership development opportunity, but you will also be contributing to the continual success of PRSSA.
The National Committee is elected each year at the PRSSA National Assembly. Fill out this form before Feb. 21, 2011 to run for a position.
Q: How much does CSUF PRSSA membership cost?
This fabulous investment in your future costs only $80 for one year of membership!
Q: How do I join?
Fill out a membership form here and turn in a $80 check made out to “CSUF PRSSA” before the deadline. Payments can be made at PRSSA meetings. Questions? Contact president@csufprssa.org.