October 2015
ENHANCE Broaden Your Horizons
Events Internships Tips From A PR Pro Alumni Spotlight
UVU PRS SA
UTAH VALLEY UNIVERSITY PRSSA - VOLUME 1 - ISSUE 1
EVENTS
Bryce Lancaster, Editor A record-breaking amount of students participated in the annual PRSSA Opening Networking Social. Over 100 students enjoyed free sandwiches and fun networking activities. The annual professional headshot fundraiser was held on October 6, 7, and 8 in the Hall of Flags. Students were offered headshots for $10, and many took advantage of the opportunity to get professional photo's taken for an incredible price. The Career Launch Development night was co-hosted with BYU's PRSSA Executive Board, and took place on October 21 in SC 206 A, B, & C. Business Casual dress was worn, and students were able to network and get advice on building their resumes.
INTERNSHIPS Tasia Briggs, VP of Internships City of Orem: Human Resources Internship (PAID) Mia Love: Campaign Internship (PAID) Pilmer PR: Digital Marketing & PR Internship (PAID) UNIC: United Nations Internship (PAID ISIher - SA: Marketing Internship (PAID) All internships listed above plus many more are available at our website at www.uvuprssa.org/internships
Photo Credit: Dallan Barnhurst
SNAPSHOTS
Photo Credit: Dallan Barnhurt, Aaron Hall
Tips From A PR Pro Written By: Bryce Lancaster
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his month’s professional interview is with the Director of Corporate Communications at Needle, Jenna Cason. In addition to working for Needle, Cason has also served as the public relations manager of Vivint and has done PR work for the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Her secret to success, Cason explained, was by getting as much experience as early as possible. She graduated from BYU with seven internships under her belt. “My most valuable learning was done outside of the classroom,” Cason said. When asked how she has moved up the rungs of corporations so quickly, she says she always hits the ground running – even before she lands the job.
“It really all starts in the interview. My number one goal isn’t to impress the interviewer. I want to know what problems exist, and then I come in with a plan to fix them, ” she explained. You shouldn’t only answer questions in interviews; you should ask them, too. When asked about resume advice, Cason said that one of the biggest mistakes people make is listing job descriptions rather than accomplishments. “Most employers know the typical job description of your last job,” Cason said. Instead, list measurable results and accomplishments under your past job titles. When asked for closing remarks, she emphasized the importance of frequent self assessments. Check on yourself monthly to make sure you’re always growing, always learning, and always engaged.
Alumni Spotlight Written By: Bryce Lancaster Networking is the largest asset when it comes to getting hired, according to Conran. Which means that it’s always important to carry and present yourself professionally.
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his month’s alumni interview is with Chris Conran. Graduated in the spring of 2015, Conran works as the Event Director for Slide The City. As part of his job duties, he assists with the logistics of setting up huge, citywide slip ‘n slides. Slide The City won the Guinness World Record for largest slip ‘n slide in June of 2015. Working for such a successful company has taught Conran a lot, especially that public relations is essential at every level of business. “Everything you do has to be strategic,” Conran explained. “Remember who you are and who you represent, because you have no idea who’s watching.”
“Keep your mind open to every possibility,” Conran said. “You never know what you’re going to end up doing, and public relations is a very versatile field. Be as open as possible with your degree.” Openness, networking, versatility, and professionalism are all key pillars when working in the field of Public Relations. As Conran plans events for a world-record-winning organization, he emulates every one of those pillars.