Exposed and Blessed

By: Delaney Brickley

In the process of attaining my Public Relations degree, I’ve been exposed. Not in the way you’re thinking though. 

The Public Relations program at Central Michigan University requires a diverse course load. My classes range from graphic design, journalism, broadcasting and even business.   

It’s because of my school’s requirements, I’ve learned how to work and be comfortable in Adobe Creative Cloud applications. 

I learned how to calculate my break-even point, costs of goods sold formula and your simple accounting equation. 

I learned how to properly give an interview, what questions to ask and how to ask them. 

I learned how to be in front of the camera, as talent and behind it, capturing the talent. 

I’ve taken my future into my OWN hands through gaining experience. Working as a Digital/Creative Content Specialist for CMU Athletics, being a Digital Media Producer for 

CM Life and being a Dialogue Facilitator for CMU has allowed me to practice my passions. 

With two semesters left in my pursuit of a bachelor’s degree, I know what my future looks like. Well, I have a better idea then I did two years ago. 

I am an entrepreneur. I don’t want to work for a large PR firm. I want to use the skills my PR degree gave me and mix them with my creative abilities and my passion to help. 

My future looks like this:

-Working for myself

-Working with different businesses to create and maintain a social media presence, successfully

-Introducing Dialogue Facilitation into three (that’s the goal I’ve set) middle/high schools near my hometown of Lansing, MI

-Working with businesses and companies to bring their marketing visions alive through photos and videos 

-Working all around the world as an ally for social justice

-Traveling and use my Public Relation skills in whatever form fits best for the opportunity I have in front of me

I’ve been blessed to be exposed and now I’ve found my passion. Have you been exposed? 

It's more than a certificate

By: Kasia Naessens

Earning the Star Chapter Award is an accomplishment for PRSSA chapters throughout the world. Every year, Central Michigan University’s chapter of PRSSA works hard to fulfill the requirements and has received the award every year since 2017.

The Star Chapter Award is one of the most prestigious a PRSSA chapter can receive. The purpose of this award is to motivate chapters to build relationships and provide hands-on learning opportunities for their members.  

For CMU, Star Chapter is a goal we set for ourselves each year. We know we are doing something meaningful as we work hard to acquire the award. This is especially positive for our seniors, as they strive to make the chapter as successful as it can be and leave behind a positive legacy. The bar is set high, which means every year our  members continue raising it.  

The members of CMU’s chapter want to make this as reputable as we can. Our chapter is motivated to reach our maximum potential and has already begun working on several of the qualifying elements for the Star Chapter Award for the 2019-2020 year. Chapters must meet at least eight requirements, some of which include conducting a high school outreach session, performing a community service project and confirming a PRSSA student-run firm. These requirements help guide our chapter as we plan programs for the year and seek to create beneficial experiences for our members.

At CMU, earning this award shows how dedicated our members and executive board are to making our chapter successful. We use this as motivation to engage with other students on our campus and the national organization. The stronger our relationship is with our community, the more opportunities and benefits our members are provided. It is an honor to gain recognition we work hard to achieve. 

Being a Star Chapter is more than just a certificate documenting hard work. It proves we can attain the goals we set and build on them, especially when we work together.

Five ways to continue professional development from home

By: Anna Kendall

As Central Michigan University’s in-person classes and activities come to a halt for the remainder of the school year, it can feel like other parts of life come to a halt as well. Don’t let your professional development be one of them! Consider these five ways to stay up to date on everything PR and continue career development while staying safe from COVID-19. 

1. Apply for scholarships. There are many scholarships available to PR students through PRSSA national and PRSA Detroit. These scholarships are designed for aspiring PR professionals to help make next semester the best one yet. PRSSA national has more than ten scholarships available with amounts ranging from $1,000 to $5,000. The deadline to apply is May 31, 2020. Many of the scholarships require letters of recommendation, so it's best to start as soon as possible. On a more local level, the Detroit PRSA Chapter has two scholarships worth $2,000 available for PRSSA members. The deadline to apply is March 31, 2020. 

2. Become certified in a new PR skill. Consider taking time to obtain a certification that will help you learn a new skill and make you more attractive to a potential employer, such as social media analytics or digital advertising. Google offers its certifications for free, and these programs are highly desired by professionals in the communication field. LinkedIn Learning also has a 30-day free trial and a variety of classes you can complete to further develop a PR specific skill or a general career skill. 

3. Examine the response of corporations to COVID-19. Within the last week, you’ve probably received a few dozen emails from various companies telling you what they’re doing to help limit the spread of the coronavirus. Though the first impulse is to send these messages to the trash, consider reading a few of them and examining the content from a PR perspective. What does their response say about the company and its values? How are they addressing various audiences in the message, including employees, customers and investors? Consider what you might have done differently as a PR pro, or what you admired about their response. Share your thoughts and start a conversation with others by writing a LinkedIn post or a blog!

4. Check out new webinars and podcasts. As a paid PRSSA member, you have access to a variety of webinars on the PRSSA website, covering everything from crisis communications during the coronavirus to communicating with the next generation (hi there, Generation Alpha!). Other professional organizations such as Hootsuite also offer free webinars on a variety of subjects related to digital communication. If webinars aren’t your style, consider adding a new podcast to your morning routine. Some shows such as Pitching PR and Young PR Pros can be especially valuable for students interested in the professional communications industry.

5. Update your resume, portfolio and LinkedIn. Although the COVID-19 situation may leave you with a lot of time on your hands, consider using it to update your professional documents. Add your most recent jobs and RSO positions to your resume and LinkedIn profile, and add some class or internship pieces you're proud of to your portfolio. Looking for a bigger project? Consider creating an online portfolio. Having your portfolio on a personal website can be especially useful when applying for internships or jobs. Employers may not have time to look at your materials during the interview, but might be interested in reviewing them later. Sites like Wix and WordPress will even allow you to create these websites for free. 

Though it may feel as if everything is coming to a stop, you can continue moving forward in your career by completing some of these activities. 

How ‘introverts’ can network without feeling awkward

By: Lauren Hendrick

Networking can be challenging for anyone. Approaching strangers feels intimidating and uncomfortable, but in the business world networking is crucial. 

Introverted people enjoy time alone and can be shy. Most introverts feel at ease when they are alone with their thoughts. Approaching strangers can be challenging for someone who is reserved. 

Although it is important to be yourself, focusing on the weakness of being an introvert will put you in a negative mindset. If a negative mindset is already set in place, it could trigger a snowball effect and ruin your networking experience. 

It is never a bad idea to begin with baby steps. When you start networking, invite a colleague along so you feel more comfortable. When you get nervous, allow your colleague to jump in as your conversation fizzles out. It is 100% okay to be introverted! Own it. 

Make sure you give yourself a pep talk before approaching someone. Tell yourself that you are excited to meet someone new and that your delivery will go fine. Obtaining confidence is a large part of networking, even if you have to fake it until you make it. 

Find a common interest between yourself and the person you are networking with. It is easy to keep a solid conversation going when you find common ground.

Being an introvert does not have to stop anyone from networking. Be yourself, be confident and have fun. Conversations can lead to new friendships and can open doors you never knew were there. 

Benefits of CMU PRSSA's Mentorship Program

By: Rachel Bednarz

This year our chapter implemented a mentorship program for executive board members to connect with new and returning members. The program has a lot to offer members, so here are a few things you can expect to take away from it.

1. A new friend

Having a mentor is a great way to gain a new PR BFF! Mentors are eager to share their knowledge and friendship with members who are getting a feel for PRSSA and the IPR program. Our mentorship program allows you to meet with possible mentors and find someone whose personality matches your own. 

2. Access to special events

This semester PRSSA will be hosting an Alumni Night for mentors and mentees to network with CMU alumni. You can only attend this event if you are or have a mentor. 

3. Inside scoop on upcoming events and opportunities

Everyone is alerted of upcoming events and meetings via email and social media, but your mentor will reach out to you about every event PRSSA hosts. This means you’ll never miss details about a fundraiser or social event, and you’ll always have someone to join you.

4. Networking connections

Along with the Alumni Night social, having a mentor can be beneficial in your networking opportunities. Executive board members often have prior connections with professionals in our field or know someone who does. Reaching out to your mentor opens the door for an unlimited amount of future PR connections.

5. So much more!

These are just a few things you can gain from a PRSSA mentorship. The relationship you have with your mentor is all up to you. Your mentor will be there to guide you through class selection, resume building and life in general. 

Don’t have a mentor? Contact Director of Member Services Rachel Bednarz at bedna1rm@cmich.edu to get connected with one soon!

What PR Students Should be Reading and Listening to

By: Bailey Talaska

If you are seeking more information on the PR profession and want to stay updated on what's going on in the industry, there are many options you could listen to or read to learn more. Here are some of my favorites:

Books: Books are a great source for information and advice as there are many that discuss the PR field and the workplace in general. 

“Writing Tools: 55 Essentials for Every Writer” By Roy Peter Clark- This text is helpful if you are looking to improve your AP writing skills or is beneficial have as a reference. The book discusses the 50 biggest rules and tools every writer should know. It is informative and helpful for writing while being easy to read and understand.

“They Don’t Teach Corporate in College” by Alexandra Levitt- This book gives advice on how to conduct yourself in a business professional setting and gives tips for dealing with corporate America. It is not just for PR people either. Anyone going into the professional world can benefit from reading this book. 

Podcasts: For people who enjoy listening to podcasts, here are a couple that are great to listen to while in the car or while walking around campus. 

Inside PR- This podcast is hosted by people who have worked in the industry and have experience in PR. In this podcast they talk about issues going on in the PR world such as online privacy and Facebook abusing their power with user information. 

Young PR Pros- This podcast is targeted toward PR students and young professionals. It describes how to make a good impression in the first month of your new job and what career tips you should follow. It is an informative and entertaining podcast for people who want to learn more about PR. 

Blogs: Blogs are great writing pieces for students to read. They are a more casual form of writing and provide advice and opinions about the industry. 

PRSSA Progressions- PRSSA Progressions is the national PRSSA newsletter with content written by members of the organization. Students have the opportunity to write for Progressions and get nationally published. The newsletter includes blogs pertaining to interview tips, social media predictions, PR case studies and more.

Ragan’s PR Daily- This website offers blogs with a wide range of topics from marketing, social media and crisis. The wide range allows readers to learn about different topics that are all a part of PR. 

I hope that with these suggestions you are able to have some new reads or podcasts to listen to that you not only enjoy, but learn from. It is a great way to learn more about what is going on in the PR industry and gives you advice on starting your career. 

Three reasons to attend spring conference

By: Natalie Batten

Spring Conference is just around the corner. As a CMU student and young professional, here are three reasons you should attend: 

1. Networking opportunities

Spring conference brings together current students, alumni and other PR professionals making it a great place to create connections. Professionals attend the conference because they are passionate about learning and helping others to learn. As students, people with this mindset are great resources. Attending the conference will give you the opportunity to network with these professionals, and listening to their presentations will also be helpful later on if you apply for a position at their company. 

2. Learn things that aren’t covered in classes

Although we learn a lot of amazing things in our classes, there are always areas of public relations we don’t get to learn about. Attending spring conference is a great way to fill that gap as it provides a unique opportunity to learn about specialized areas of PR. This year’s speakers will be discussing community events, non-profit grant writing & communication, storytelling, social media analytics and media relations in crisis. These topics are relevant to our future as PR professionals, so it will be helpful to get more in-depth knowledge about them. 

3. Learn more about the role PR plays in the “real-world” 

As students, most of our work is to prepare us for the professional world. As important as our classes and the skills they teach us are, sometimes it still feels like there is a big gap between sitting in class and being out in the ‘real’ world. Spring conference gives students a glimpse into the world of working professionals. It allows us to see how we can apply the skills we spend so long learning. It’s motivating to see how the work we do in classes can pay off in the real world. 

CMU PRSSA’s spring conference, “The Anatomy of PR”, is on Friday, March 20 from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. in Powers Hall. Register here. 

Breaking PR Stereotypes

By: Bailey Talaska 

There are many myths people outside the public relations world believe about PR professionals, I am here to debunk a few of these stereotypes.

1: Liar, Liar.

The number one stereotype of PR professionals is they spin the truth and display dishonesty. This could not be further from the truth. PR people are all about accuracy and honesty, and a career can be ruined if wrong information is put out.

2: What is PR again?

Another misconception is what PR professionals do in their day to day jobs. Many people think PR is the same as advertising and marketing. Public relations certainly has some aspects of those things, but there is so much more to the industry. The beauty of PR is its diversity and wide range of positions within the field. You can write press releases, manage social media platforms, graphic design, plan events and the list goes on. You name it and a PR professional (probably) does it. 

3: PR is a new profession.

Public relations has been around longer than social media and even the internet itself. PR has been used since the age of ancient Olympics to promote the games as well as events like the Boston Tea Party when public relations was used to motivate people to protest. While the profession has certainly evolved over the years, it serves the same purpose as it did back then. 

4: PR is only needed by big companies.

Every business, company and organization needs and uses PR. Public relations is essentially relations with publics whether it be writing content for a website, developing a crisis communication plan, building a brand’s image through social media or executing media relations events. PR is used to build effective and beneficial relationships with target audiences while promoting positive brand image. Whether it’s a company, organization or even an individual, public relations is needed and used all over the spectrum. 

5: All PR professionals are extroverts.

The industry needs all types of people as there are many different organizations and forms of PR. It doesn’t matter if you are shy, quiet and reserved or outgoing and overly expressive. The beauty of PR is that it is so diverse and has such a wide range of jobs that there is something for everyone. 

Those are just some of the stereotypes that come with the profession of public relations. While the industry does have somewhat of a darker past, it has evolved over the years to be a very diverse and respected profession. 

Physical vs Online Portfolios

By: Natalie Batten

Professionals know that having a professional portfolio, or a collection of your work to show potential employers, is essential. There is a debate about whether or not physical or online portfolios are a better choice. Spoiler alert: It comes down to personal preference. Here are some things to consider while making your decision.

Online Portfolio

Pros:

• Less wear and tear

One of the perks of an online portfolio is you don’t have to worry about it getting smashed, spilled on or ripped as time goes on. Not having to deal with fixing these things can save you a lot of time and stress. 

• Easy to access & share

Online portfolios make it easy to share your work with someone because all you have to do is provide them with a link. This is helpful when you are applying for jobs that are far away. It can also be helpful if a potential employer wants to look at your work without you physically present or share it with others in the company. 

• Easy to update

Online portfolios are easy to keep updated. Working on the computer means less physical arts and crafts, and it is easy to make small changes to your portfolio without having to redo it all. 

Cons:

• Can be awkward to access in a job interview

One problem with online portfolios is that it can be tough to access in a situation where you don’t have easy access to a computer. Some people dislike reading on a computer screen and may be turned off by the concept of an online portfolio. 

• Potential for technology problems

There is always the potential for technology problems. You have very little control over this, if it happens right before a job interview there may not be much you can do. These can also be very frustrating to fix.

• Can limit size/quality

Websites may have constraints for the amount of information you can include or the way it is formatted. You also generally have very little control over what ads may show up alongside your content. 

Physical Portfolio

Pros:

• Shows effort

Many employers, especially those who have been in the industry for awhile, will appreciate the effort that goes into a physical portfolio. They come across as more professional and show that you are willing to take time to do a good job. 

• You know exactly what the viewer will see

With a physical portfolio you have full control over how it looks and what the viewer will see. You don’t have to worry about advertisements popping up or formatting getting changed. 

• Often easier to show in person

A physical portfolio is often easier to show someone because it is tangible and they can flip through it. You also know exactly what they’re seeing and when, this gives you the opportunity to explain your work or make conversation while they view it.

Cons:

• You have to carry it around 

Portfolios can often be large and bulky which can make it inconvenient to carry around, especially at long events such as a career fair. You also have to make sure you remember it when you need it.

• Will get worn down over time

You will likely have to spend time and money updating your portfolio to make sure that it looks new and professional. There is also the chance that a tear or spill could happen before an important interview. 

• Must be in person to share 

One of the most difficult aspects of a physical portfolio is that you must be physically with the person who is looking at it. This can be difficult if you are interested in applying to jobs further away. It can also be hard for an interviewer to share your work with others in the company without removing it from your portfolio. 

As long as you have a strong portfolio that you put time and effort into, you can’t go wrong with either option. Maybe consider making a portfolio of each type and using one or the other depending on the situation. 

Common AP style misconceptions

By: Kasia Naessens

AP style is difficult to master. It takes a lot of practice and patience to learn the basics. Here are some common errors made and advice on how to avoid them. 

1. Time

This can be tricky at first, but the format is the same for everything. Common mistakes of writing time include “100 pm, 1:00 pm, 1:00 PM.” The correct way to write time is “1 p.m.”  

2. Serial comma

Also known as the Oxford comma, this catches writers often. AP style does not like this bugger. When writing out a series, never include a comma before the conjunction unless it is needed for clarity or if the concluding item of the series includes a conjunction. Here are two correct examples:

• I need potatoes, green peppers, tomatoes and eggs. 

• I had orange juice, toast, and ham and eggs for breakfast.

3. Months

AP style has rules about when you can and cannot abbreviate months. If there is no specific date with the month, write it out. Months are also written out when followed by a year. If months are followed by a date, abbreviation is necessary. For example, 

• I was born in February 2007. 

• I was born Feb. 12.

• My birthday is in August.

August through February can be abbreviated with a date. March through July are never abbreviated even if there is a date after it. See month abbreviations below:

• Jan.

• Feb.

• Aug.

• Sept.

• Oct.

• Nov.

• Dec.

4. Address abbreviations 

The only time you can abbreviate the words “street,” “avenue” and “boulevard” are when there are full addresses with them. For example, “2112 Rockland St.” is permissible. If you are just referring to the street “Rockland Street” then ”street” needs to be written out. 

The only exception to this rule is the word “road.” AP style does not allow “road” to be abbreviated. 

There are many more misconceptions I could discuss, but these are some basics that will help you become a better writer. Always have your AP stylebook handy. You never know when you will need it! 

Benefits of joining a student-run PR firm

By: Natalie Batten 

Here at Central Michigan University we are very lucky to have a variety of opportunities to help us grow in our careers as future PR professionals. One opportunity I’ve taken this year is joining our student-run PR firm, PR Central. Over my few months in the club, I’ve already received many benefits. Here are the top three benefits I’ve gotten out of the experience.

1. Real work experience

One of the biggest benefits to joining a student-run PR firm is gaining real world experience. As a younger student, it can feel intimidating trying to get your first internship when most jobs prefer you to have prior experience. By joining a firm like PR Central, you can create this opportunity for yourself and have work to show for it. The work you produce is a great resume builder and interview talking point. Potential employers like to hear that you took initiative and took advantage of these opportunities. 

It also is a beneficial experience to work with real-world clients because you get a better idea of what it is like to work in the PR field. The more you develop the skills you need for successfully working with clients at a young age, the better off you will be in the future. 

2. Learning to work in a group/agency setting

Another important benefit of a student-run PR firm is that it is set up similar to a real-world agency. This means we work in client groups, with different levels of leadership. It is a great way to develop the skills for working in groups that the majority of PR professionals will use on a daily basis. It has given me a better understanding of how an agency works and how to navigate that successfully. It also provides leadership opportunities which are a great addition to your resume. 

3. Develop new skills

Working for a student-run PR firm is not only a great way to practice what you’re learning in classes, but it also provides a great opportunity to explore new areas of PR and develop your skills. Sometimes people come into PR Central without much social media experience, but it’s an area of public relations that they’re interested in. Or they may want to enhance their writing or practice pitching stories. PR Central gives us a supportive place to branch out and practice our skills.

I highly recommend that everyone looks into joining a student-run PR firm if you have the opportunity. It is a great way to gain real-world experience, learn to work in an agency setting and practice new skills. I am enjoying my experience and I think you will too. 

Latest social media trends and predictions for what’s coming

By: Lauren Hendrick

In today’s society, social media is a part of most people’s routines whether it’s for work, fun or inspiration. Social media trends are important to be aware of as a professional to stay relevant in the digital world. 

A few of the latest social media trends 

Brand Humanization

Some brands make it an obvious goal to portray their establishment as a human with feelings, emotions and humor instead of keeping it strictly professional. Many brands use Twitter to jump in on a viral thread or have “friendly” banter with competitors for comedic purposes. When brands use this tactic on their social media platforms, the posts are likely to go viral, which results in good coverage. This strategy has been around for a few years, but is now becoming popular. Wendy’s twitter page is a good example of a brand who has utilized this approach. 

Live Video

Many social media influencers are also starting to make use of live video. This allows the audience to feel personable with you, which can help with followers and sales. Live video also encourages interactions between the audience and company. 

Using Social Media as Customer Service 

If you scroll on social media and come across a post from a brand, or click on a brand website, you will find customer reviews and opinions. Brands can resolve problems for customers by reaching out and offering a refund or giving a sincere apology. While most of a company’s customer service used to occur face to face or over the phone, many customer service interactions now take place online. Brands are also able to calculate what consumers like or don’t like based on their social media activity, which can give establishments suggestions and ideas to improve. 

A few social media predictions  

More Use of Augmented Reality

Augmented reality warps the way we see our surroundings through a phone camera lens and allows us to see a life-like environment. Instagram and Snapchat are examples of social media apps that use AR. When you use a Snapchat filter it can make you look like you have a spider crawling across your face, fill the room with sparkles or give you ears and a snout to resemble a dog. The New York Times also started using AR with articles to make readers feel like they are a part of the story. Augmented reality catches readers attention and brings the story to life.  

Social Media Communities 

Social media gives users a sense of belonging and community. “Facebook Groups” are an example where users can join pages that focus on their passion or interests. The page is used for ideas, inspirations and to meet people with similar interests. This will continue to become more common in the social media world because it is an easy way to engage in human interaction. Users can make friends, receive ideas and share content. 

Niche Social Platforms

Brands used to only focus on Facebook and Twitter. Now, more social media applications are becoming popular such as Tik Tok and LinkedIn. Niche social platforms open up more opportunities for brands to make a name for themselves. It also means brands have to stay up to date with multiple social media platforms, instead of just Facebook and Twitter. 

Some social media trends stick around and make an everlasting impact on brands and consumers, while others fade away. In the midst of these trends, we can always expect something new as social media isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. 

Influencer culture and the average student

By: Rachel Bednarz

Influencer, it’s a word that gets thrown around a lot in the media. What does it actually mean?

Merriam-Webster defines the term as: a person who is able to generate interest in something (such as a consumer product) by posting about it on social media.  The New Yorker stated that an influencer is “a celebrity spokesperson for the social-media age.” Yet, the construct has proven itself to be far more complicated than these simple definitions. 

Hiring influencers has become a trend across brands large and small. Paid promotions and advertisements clutter timelines and students often find themselves either trying to escape or joining the flock.

Millennials and Generation Z have grown up surrounded by subliminal advertisements across all media platforms. The idea of influencer culture has never been new to them, what’s new is the idea that they can join it. 

Students join ambassador or influencer programs for many different reasons. Some do it for a little bit of extra money, others for the media fame and some people truly enjoy the products they are representing. 

In efforts to become media influencers, young adults are apt to fall for multi-level marketing (or pyramid schemes) that promise social media recognition and extra cash. In return for a few posts on Instagram, brands often include perks such as access to exclusive products, social media marketing tips and access to private groups. These perks typically aren’t worth the excitement though.

Teenagers and college students can find themselves in debt to these companies after purchasing products to show off to their friends and getting little in return. Some brands offer discount codes, which allow “influencers” to earn money from their sales, but the amount actually earned is often little to none. 

In a media age where anyone can gain fame for any reason - or no reason at all - college students are simply trying to blend in with the popular creators on their Instagram feeds. The truth is, becoming a popular influencer is not as simple as it seems, and working for a multi-level marketing company may cost you in the long run.

Let your company culture grow

By: Kasia Naessens

Our world is dominated by competition and who can be the best. But sometimes working to achieve it can be more demeaning, especially to the employees doing all the work. So how can we make company culture wonderful regardless of the position we hold? 

1. Friendly, open-minded atmosphere

It doesn’t matter who you are or what your job is, always be friendly to clients and your co-workers. Greet them with a smile, hold the door for them and offer to be a resource. Working in an environment where co-workers are friendly and open-minded makes it feel comfortable and safe. 

2. Inclusivity 

Everyone has different appearances, styles, personalities and interests. Welcome those who are different than you. Be diverse. Get different opinions, beliefs and morals to see all sides of things. It makes a difference when everyone feels accepted.

3. Respect

There is a saying that goes, “respect is earned, not given.” I disagree with this. Respect everyone. In a world where hatred is so strong, be the bigger person and give others the time of day. We are all human, so respect those below you, above you and at your level. Respect those of all ages, ethnicities and sexual orientations. 

4. Honesty

Never get in the habit of lying. Always be honest with yourself and your fellow colleagues. Say things kindly and be respectful when giving your input. Remember, honesty is the best policy and lying will only make a situation worse.

5. Creative

Give a workspace the ability to be innovative. Let the creative juices flow to see the best results in yourself and others. The best ideas tend to come from the most abstract ones. The creativity goes hand-in-hand with the open-minded atmosphere. 

It doesn’t stop here. There are plenty of other ways your workspace can be a more inviting place for you and your colleagues. Let it grow and create a culture everyone wants to be a part of.

How to get involved with CMU’s PRSSA chapter

By: Bailey Talaska

The Integrative Public Relations program at Central Michigan University has so much to offer to students in and outside of the classroom. Students can join different RSO’s like the Public Relations Student Society of America and PR Central, which allows them to meet other students within their major, gain hands-on experience, build a portfolio and expand their professional network.

What is PRSSA?

PRSSA is a professional organization for students in media and communication related fields such as public relations, journalism and advertising. PRSSA provides students with resources needed to succeed and lead in the PR industry. 

Committees

Members of PRSSA have the opportunity to join committees to further their skills and build their resume. 

The chapter events committee allows students to be integral in planning chapter socials, fundraisers and the spring banquet. 

The publications committee are the writers of CMU PRSSA’s brand. Members of this committee are able to write for the chapter blog and have the opportunity to be nationally published. 

The professional development committee is in charge of the chapter’s largest events. With planning the annual internship fair and the spring conference, members can enhance their event planning skills and grow their professional network.

What is PR Central?

PRC is the chapter’s student-run firm. Members of the firm work with clients in the community and help them thrive. Some clients this academic year are Ignite Donuts, Big Brothers Big Sisters and the IPR council. Students have the opportunity to work with one client which allows them to build a relationship with the people in their client group as well as the client itself. 

Can I be on the executive board?

Yes, you can apply to be an executive board member for PRSSA and PRC. Both offer great opportunities to gain leadership experience as well as help you get more involved. Both groups offer different positions which means there is more than likely a position that will interest you. Joining the executive board is something that makes your resume stand out. It shows you have the ability to be a leader and take on extra responsibilities.

Joining groups like PR Central and PRSSA allows students to network with not only other students, but faculty members and PR professionals. These groups also allow you to build your portfolio and resume, and are great experiences to discuss in an interview. There is no doubt that a membership and involvement with the PRSSA chapter will professionally and successfully prepare you for your future career.

End of semester advice

By: Lauren Hendrick 

 As the end of the semester approaches, it can be a stressful and overwhelming time for college students. It’s important to take care of yourself during this time. 

 As your classes come to a close, it’s easy to feel burnt out. Feeling burnt out can make it difficult to find motivation to study or complete assignments. End of the semester projects are due, final exams are right around the corner and final grades are heavy on the mind.

 ·     Make a list 

 Take time to make a to-do list so your obligations are on paper or a screen in front of you. A list can make you feel organized and prepared to get things done. As you check off your list, the feeling of accomplishment can push you to finish everything that needs to be done. 

 ·     Give yourself breaks 

 Try to take breaks even if you feel like you are on a time crunch. Take a 10-minute break to walk around, get a snack or talk to a friend. Taking a few minutes to give your mind a break can help you get more quality work done.

 ·     Find a study partner 

 A good way to make studying and  homework a little better is to partner up with a friend. Working on school work with another person can make it feel a little less stressful and overwhelming. Good companies can ensure a better mood and a good accountability partner. 

 ·     Take care of yourself 

 It’s important to dedicate time for relaxation and your mental health. Grades are important, but they are not as important as YOU. Make the best of your last few weeks at CMU with friends and roommates. Remember to stay focused, stay motivated and be healthy. Holiday break is in reach!

Recharge your battery

By: Kasia Naessens

It is getting to the point in the semester where everything hits students all at once. As big projects, final papers and exams are approaching, it’s easy to forget to take care of yourself. Here are a few suggestions to help you destress and relax: 

1. Take a bath

A great way to relax after a long, stressful day is by fixing yourself a warm bath. Sprinkle bath salts or essential oils in, light some candles  and play calm music. This should help clear your mind. 

2. Watch an episode or two of your favorite television show

Lay down in your bed, grab some popcorn, cuddle up in some warm blankets and take your mind off of your life for a little bit. 

3. Put on a facemask 

Your skin is another important part of your body and you need to treat it right. Let your skin relax while you do.

4. Practice yoga 

Whether yoga is for you or not, try it. Light some candles, shut off the lights, listen to calming music and turn on a YouTube yoga video. This allows yourself to focus on you. 

5. Exercise

If you enjoy physical activity, do it. Let your body do something other than sit and walk. Getting a good workout in helps many people get their minds off other burdens. 

6. Spend time with friends and family

Don’t forget about the people who care about you. Spend time with them, whether you go out or stay in. Take a mental break from your workload and hang out with others. 

Make sure you take breaks between school and work to recharge your battery. Your emotional, mental and physical health are equally important. Always listen to your body, get the rest you need and take time to focus on you.  

How to live your best life during exam season

By: Julia Amting

The cold weather is upon us and the end of the semester is near. CMU students are shuffling around campus in winter gear with full backpacks and busy schedules. Mid-November is confronting us with all that still needs to be done, all the projects to finish and all the information we have to remember. 

Exam season tends to be a source of anxiety, but fear not. Here are some tips to prepare you to ace your exams and thrive while doing it.

Start early 

Most stress about exams comes when you’re in a time crunch. Being aware of deadlines and how much preparation you need for each class will limit surprises later on. I know it might feel unnecessary when it seems like there’s a significant amount of time left - trust me, I understand. However, this time of year commitments tend to pile up. Getting ahead of the game instead of running to keep up helps with mental health, your confidence and your grades.

Organize your space

Everyone studies differently, so pick a space that works well for you Some people like the silence of the library and others enjoy the white noise of coffee shops. Sometimes a space at home or in your dorm is best as well. Keep that space organized by throwing away old papers and having a place for everything. 

Wherever you choose to work, it’s important to understand how your space affects you. Cluttered spaces are proven to cause stress and negatively affect mental health. When your space feels out of control, it is more difficult to stay focused on a task. Open and organized spaces radiate peace and safety in an environment where you are required to problem solve and think creatively - a practice worth carrying into a home and office of a busy professional. 

Make manageable goals

The mountain of tasks leading up to exam week can seem insurmountable. Facing the music is the best way to handle it. Take time to look at the tasks you need to complete and create doable daily goals. If it’s a big project, take a step each day. Write these goals down and cross them off when they’re done. This way you have a daily sense of achievement instead of feeling discouraged at what’s yet to be done. 

Find support

If there is a subject you are struggling with, studying with others can help. It can give you a group of peers to commiserate with and provide a resource for information you might not understand. Additionally, collaboration is a huge part of any PR career. Learning with others and observing how they work can help you with your professional development. 

Teach your material

Teaching a concept or a process to your roommate or a friend can help you remember it better yourself.  Speaking ideas aloud repeatedly helps them cement in your mind in your own words. This method brings to light the aspects that might be challenging to understand and shows you where to focus your studying. 

Take care of yourself

Take breaks, even if it feels unproductive. It can be easy to put your health on the backburner when there seems to be more pressing work to be done. However, recharging will help with your mood as well as your memory. Drink plenty of water, and practice positivity.  When you’re overwhelmed it’s easy to focus on everything that still needs to be done instead of what you’ve already accomplished. It’s important to use self-care as a choice and not a method of procrastination.

These tips will set you up for success as you approach exam week, and help you to thrive and not simply survive. 

Apple’s response, or lack thereof, to discrimination allegations

By: Rachel Bednarz

Earlier this year Apple launched its credit card, Apple Card, in partnership with Goldman Sachs and Mastercard. The card application was made available to all United States residents on Aug. 6, 2019, and just three months later is being investigated for discrimination. 

The case started after a tweet from software engineer David Hansson went viral. Thursday, Nov. 7 Hansson tweeted that both he and his wife completed the credit application with the same tax and bank account information, but he was offered 20 times more credit than his wife.

Hansson’s thread went on to explain he reached out to Apple support and was told the algorithm could not be biased, however; Hansson’s wife was granted more credit opportunity after the situation was brought to Apple’s attention.

Immediately after Hansson’s tweet, other users commented saying they had the same experience. Apple’s twitter accounts did not have any public interaction with users who responded to Hansson’s tweet.

On Saturday, Nov. 9 the New York Department of Financial Services reported they would be launching an investigation against the card and released a statement stating, “any algorithm that intentionally or not results in discriminatory treatment of women or any other protected class violates New York law.”

On Monday, Nov. 11, four days after Hasson’s popular tweet was posted, Goldman Sachs released a statement on Twitter stating, “We have not and never will make decisions based on factors like gender.” The post continued, “We do not know your gender or marital status during the Apple Card application process.”

Also on Nov. 11, Hansson’s wife Jamie Hansson took to the internet with a blog post explaining her stance on the situation. Jamie Hansson explains she values privacy and transparency above all else, which is why she chose the Apple Card to begin with. She acknowledges Apple’s efforts to increase her credit limit, but states that she feels privileged in this fight because she is a “rich white woman.”

On Tuesday, Nov. 12 The Verge published the article “Apple owns every mistake Goldman Sachs makes with this card.” The article points out that on the Apple Card website the top of the page reads, “Created by Apple, not a bank” yet the Apple support page regarding card policies behind approvals puts all the weight on Goldman Sachs’ shoulders. 

Amid these allegations, Apple has remained silent. All reporters have been redirected to Goldman Sachs representatives in the heat of controversy. Neither Apple or Goldman Sachs have overtly stated that any discrimination has occurred.

Apple’s response to this crisis has been clear, deny deny deny. Is this the right tactic for the situation? Users signed up for a credit card supposedly  “created by Apple” and now they’re being told that it’s actually created by a bank. Apple’s commitment to convenience, being transparent, and protecting privacy are all at risk, and the public is losing its faith in the brand. 

Reverse marketing: An unexpected (but very effective) PR strategy

By: Natalie Batten

In today’s world full of advertisements and PR techniques, how do you stand out when it seems like every company is doing the same thing? Black Friday is coming up, and many businesses and organizations will be trying to sell as many products as possible. It can seem almost impossible to stand out or to make a lasting impression on an audience.

In 2017, Patagonia stood out by doing something very unusual. They ran an advertisement in the New York Times informing people NOT to buy their jackets. Understandably, people were very confused because it seems like the exact opposite of what should be done. Most people didn’t realize that Patagonia was using a strategy called reverse marketing. 

According to Hitesh Bhasin of Marketing91, reverse marketing is defined as “a concept of marketing in which the customer seeks the firm rather than marketers seeking the customer. In fact, this method is similar to reverse psychology wherein we make another person do or say something by telling them the contrary of what is preferred.” 

Typical marketing methods include the service provider working hard to interest clients and sell to them. However, the main goal of reverse marketing is to inspire the client to seek out the service provider. 

Patagonia used this effectively by then capitalizing on the publicity received and publishing a blog on their website. It explains the ad and calls attention to its Common Threads Initiative and overall values, proving Patagonia walks its talk. This helps build trust with customers and aligns with the target market of people who are looking for companies who share common values. 

A small disclaimer: Although this technique has marketing in the title, it actually aligns with a lot of PR principles as it focuses on building relationships and trust with the public. 

Why reverse marketing is effective from a company standpoint:

1. It makes you memorable. This takes customers by surprise because it’s the opposite of what they expect companies to do. This makes you stand out and they essentially will flag you in their mind as something unique. 

2. It builds a long term relationship. Many companies are rather short-sighted, especially on big consumer holidays like Black Friday. They just want to make a sale. However, organizations using reverse positioning are able to build relationships and establish trust. This makes it more likely to gain repeat customers. 

Other Success Stories:

Patagonia is not the only company in recent years to use this strategy. Both Dove and Gillette have also used it successfully with their campaigns Real Beauty and The Best Men Can Be. 

Do you think any company could effectively use reverse marketing or does it take a very specific brand and situation to pay off?