What is public relations?
Public relations helps our complex, pluralistic society to reach decisions and function more effectively by contributing to mutual understanding among groups and institutions. It serves to bring private and public policies into harmony.
Public relations serves a wide variety of institutions in society such as businesses, trade unions, government agencies, voluntary associations, foundations, hospitals, schools, colleges and religious institutions. To achieve their goals, these institutions must develop effective relationships with many different audiences or publics such as employees, members, customers, local communities, shareholders, and other institutions, and with society at large.
The managements of institutions need to understand the attitudes and values of their publics in order to achieve institutional goals. The goals themselves are shaped by the external environment. The public relations practitioner acts as a counselor to management and as a mediator, helping to translate private aims into reasonable, publicly acceptable policy and action.
(Formally adopted by PRSA Assembly, November 6, 1982, www.prsa.org)
What is PRSSA?
PRSSA is an acronym for Public Relations Student Society of America. It is a society established by PRSA, the Public Relations Society of America, with the purpose of establishing relationships between students and PR practitioners.
How does someone become a member?
If you want to become a certified member there will be an annual due/fee of $50 for national dues plus $10 for chapter dues. Dues must be turned in before November 1st or March 1st. The treasurer collects dues and sends them to national PRSA headquarters. You will receive a certificate and membership card that verifies your membership.
Can I attend meetings without being a paid member?
Yes, you can. Everyone is welcome.
How often does the membership need to be renewed?
Each student must renew their membership once a year.
What is the benefit of being a paid member?
It is easier to become a member of PRSA if you are a paid PRSSA member. Many resources are available through PRSSA, such as access to job postings across the nation, national conferences to meet other PRSSA members and PRSA professionals, as well as the Bateman competition, which allows students to hone their PR skills and gain experience by conducting research, planning and implementing a campaign, and preparing a final report for a real client.
When and where are the meetings held on campus?
Meetings are every other Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. in CADD-21 and last 30-60 minutes.
Who is the advisor for WSU’s chapter?
Clinical Assistant Professor, Rebecca Cooney
Is there a website for PRSSA?
Yes. The national website is http://www.prssa.org/. The WSU chapter website is here.
Does PRSSA hold fundraisers?
It depends on the officers running the club for the year. However, if the need arises, WSU PRSSA will put on fundraisers to raise money for job shadows or the national conference.
Where does WSU PRSSA go for job shadows?
The most frequently attended job shadow is in Spokane, Wash. However, there are opportunities for members to travel to Seattle as well.
Do I really need an internship? Why?
YES! Most entry level public relations jobs require experience. The best way to gain valuable experience is through an internship.
Will PRSSA help students find internships?
Yes, internship opportunities are announced during meetings. You can also visit Jay Rockey PRSSA Internship for many internship and job postings. The national PRSSA JobCenter also provides many opportunities for internships.
Is PRSSA involved in The Edward R. Murrow Symposium?
Yes. A group of volunteers helps set up, clean up, manage workshops, and assist speakers during the event.
