The Benefits of Joining Your Student-Run Public Relations Firm
Many universities offer the opportunity to get involved with various clubs and organizations. At Grand Valley State University, I have had the opportunity to be involved in our nationally acclaimed student-run public relations firm, GrandPR. Being a part of a student-run public relations firm has enhanced my college experience and given me the necessary tools to feel confident, walking into my first job post-graduation. Here are a few benefits of applying for your student-run public relations firm at your university:
Hands-on client experience
Not like your average classroom group work, our clients are real and paying for our services. You have the opportunity to apply the skills you learn in the classroom or from internships to real clients. Working with your team of other young professionals to provide strategic public relations counsel, innovative communication campaigns, and fresh perspectives to reach the client's objectives. You get to grow in your client relation skills and have real experience working with a team in a firm setting to accomplish the client goals. Think of it as putting into action all of the lessons your professors have taught you, but you are now the professional.
Gain leadership experience
When sitting in a college classroom or participating in an internship, you spend most of your time learning from someone else. In a student-run public relations firm, you get the opportunity to improve upon your problem-solving skills, team leadership skills, and accountability in the workplace with hands-on experience. You have the opportunity to practice in a firm setting and the ability to grow in various client teams and firm member positions.
Strengthen your resume and portfolio
When putting your resume or portfolio together, whether, for an internship or post-graduation position, you want the ability to show valuable experience. Some skills your student-run public relations firm can give you to add to your next portfolio or resume:
Creating and executing full-service public relations packages
Media package curation
Brand development research
Event execution
As you work with your team, you will make and execute professional content and public relations work that can easily be uploaded and attached to your digital portfolio and is a great conversation starter in any interview.
Build your network
In public relations, building your network inside and outside the classroom is extremely valuable. In a student-run public relations firm, you have the ability to connect with other highly motivated students outside the classroom. With high amounts of client interaction, you can foster and practice building professional relationships networking with real clients that could help you land your next internship or post-graduation job. Not only will you become a part of a community, but you can create mutually beneficial relationships with other professionals.
Joining GVSU student-run public relations firm; GrandPR allows me to grow both personally and professionally in the workplace. Gaining hands-on client experience, expanding your networking, and building your resume with an array of public relations skills. If you are a highly motivated communication student, consider taking this next step; apply for your student-run public relations firm.
About Caitlyn:
Caitlyn is a senior studying Advertising and Public Relations, with a minor in Digital Studies. She currently serves as the Media Director for GrandPR. Caitlyn is also an active member in the GVSU PRSSA chapter. Caitlyn plans one day to combine her passion for PR, event planning, and digital marketing to work on an integrated communication team within the sporting industry. In her free time, she likes to watch YouTube, create videos, and explore West Michigan.
Twitter: @CaitlynWolter