Beyond the Skyline: Exploring Connections and Career Growth with PRSSA’s Conference
As a Public Relations student, my coursework is often hands-on; we work on real-life client campaigns, examine crisis case studies, and build our own portfolio of writing and design samples. The major- and the College of Communications at DePaul- are oriented to build success for students and kickstart our careers. Our programs are exemplary and stand out against other universities, which is one of the reasons I landed at DePaul University in the first place!
However, out of all of the opportunities offered for PRAD students, my favorite is the PRSSA Midwest Conference. PRSSA is a club for Public Relations and Advertising students, and we have hosted the conference for several years now. I attended last year, but this year I was on the planning side as part of the Hospitality Committee. I also was able to receive credit hours for my involvement, which was another win. It was so interesting to see the insider perspective on the event, and it brought pride for our results and confidence in my professional skills. I highly recommend that any PRAD or Communications student attend the conference- especially if you still have not found your niche for post-grad. It opened my eyes last year to what PR can be and truly inspired me!
Site Visits!
Chicago is a hotspot for Public Relations, with hundreds of agencies and corporate positions in a small radius. This makes it an ideal location for securing a job with some of the biggest names in the industry. With that, we also have the unique opportunity to tour local agencies during the conference. I toured Walker Sands and MSL for my two site visits. We learned about the work that each company does, participated in a Q&A, and explored their internship opportunities. Last year, I toured Zeno Group and Molson-Coors, but we have visited anywhere from the Shedd Aquarium to McDonald’s and the Chicago White Sox. They are some of the best moments of the conference!
Another stand-out component of the PRSSA Midwest Conference this year (Beyond the Skyline), was the incredible panels. I attended a panel exploring DEIB which is a hot-button topic right now. The panelists explored what DEIB means beyond buzz-words, and how to navigate inclusivity beyond policy in the workplace. It was inspiring to hear these testimonials and have productive conversations about how we can build an equitable society through PR.
I also loved the Unconventional PR Careers Panel, which talked about roles outside of agency that are not the traditional route for a PRAD major, but just as exciting and rewarding. One panelist discussed her journey to non-profit private foundation work, where she is tasked with connecting with grantees and the public in a genuine and non-performative way. They showed me how broad PR can span across industries!
Overall, this conference is one of the biggest highlights of my college experience. This was my second year being involved, and each time has broadened my perspective. You can be in this environment where you are a professional, which prepares you for post-grad in a hands-on way. I highly recommend exploring the opportunity and the PRAD program at DePaul in general- maybe you can find your spark there too!
~Breanne