PRemier
Page 10
Letter from Executive Board By Kaitie Ries, president
In every issue of PRemier, this column features a short article by one of the Chapter’s executive board
members. The purposes of this column are to introduce you to the person holding a particular e-board position and summarize the work that person does through the role he or she fills. Conference that make little to no sense to others.
• Touring public relations organizations.
When applying for jobs, I relied heavily on what I’d learned from tours. I knew what certain offices looked like, the experience I had while there and behind the scenes information that can’t be found on the company’s website. I also got a feel for the office culture, which is really important.
• Hearing about member’s receiving There has been one question I’ve been asked a
lot lately, and that is: “Are you ready to be done with PRSSA?” After two years on the executive board (2011-12 as vice president, and 2012-13 as president), and one year as a very involved member, I’m never surprised people ask me that. I’ll be honest when I say that yes, I am ready to hand over the reins to the incoming executive board, but that is not to say I won’t miss being part of such a wonderful registered student organization. I mean, what in the world am I going to do on Tuesday nights at 8 p.m. now?! This list serves as SOME of the things I will miss from being involved in PRSSA since 2010:
• Attending National Conference. I attended in Orlando, Fla. and San Francisco, Calif. Though it is a pricey event, I strongly encourage everyone to attend. Not only do you get to learn from interesting panels and sessions and meet well-known professionals, it is a great way to get to know people from our Chapter, especially when everyone is sleep deprived from attending sessions, and trying to see as much of the city as possible. Typically, really strange jokes come out of
internship opportunities, scholarships, awards and leadership positions. You make us feel like proud mama and papa bears!
• Being able to work with two incredible
executive boards. I have learned so much about teamwork and interpersonal communication during my time on executive board. I’ve also gained some pretty amazing friends out of the deal. Who knew?
• Watching members ask questions and
speak to professionals after Chapter meetings. Our Chapter is fortunate enough to have so many professionals that are willing to speak during our meetings. Taking advantage of that and speaking with them afterwards and keeping in contact with them is invaluable. I know this may surprise you, but when they say, “Keep in touch,” they mean it!
• Giving advice to members whether
he/she signs up for the mentor/mentee program, sends in a cover letter or resume to be proofread or asks for advice about