How I Prepared for a New Semester

By: Sofia Randazzo

Preparing for a new semester of college is scary. It’s like the first day of school all over again; new classes, new people, getting lost on campus and even having to start a new routine. I know after a month-long holiday break it is very hard to get back into the swing of things – it was even hard for me. But the way I prepared made things go much smoother than moving back to college and starting new classes feeling unready.

1. Look over your upcoming classes

I know looking at your next semester’s classes during break is not what we want to do, but it is necessary. The week before school started back up, I had to force myself to look at my classes and write down where they are, what time they are at and build a tentative schedule around them. If you look at your classes the night before school starts, it may leave you unprepared, and even more anxious. 

1. Make a schedule

Making a schedule is what keeps me intact. On the notes app on my phone, I wrote down the exact times of every single one of my classes (and clubs!) and worked my free time and homework around it. If I had one hour gaps between classes, I would know that is a good time to go home and have a quick meal. After my afternoon class, I would know it is time to go to the gym. If I had a three hour gap between my class and my club, that would be the time made for homework. Sticking to a strict schedule day-by-day and week-by-week will keep you organized and all around less stressed. 

1. Mentally prepare

This seems pretty obvious, but it may not be for some people. I know it is hard to think about going back to school while being on break, but not mentally preparing for what is coming ahead is what causes more anxiety down the line. During break, I had many sleepless nights worrying about moving back to school and basically starting over. The anxiety and stress is almost inevitable; but there are ways to lessen it.

Meditating is a great form of relaxation that can calm the body and release your stress hormones. Once a day for 30 minutes I would meditate and listen to zen music to take my mind off school. If you worry about the future just like me, this is a great skill to have when wanting to focus on the present. 

Surviving Finals Week

By: Katie Haley

Turns out there is a solution to surviving finals week that doesn’t involve an IV-drip of coffee and an all-nighter. In my three years of college I have found neither of those are likely to help you in the end. Finals week is overwhelming whether a freshman or a fifth year. The amount of information you need to cram in a week can be daunting. Here are a few ideas to study more efficiently. 

1. Make a study schedule

Check your exam times. From there create a schedule of when you need to be prepared for each exam. This will help you prioritize what you should study first. With that being said, create a schedule of smaller study sessions. Don’t cram one class’s material into one day. 

1. Study smarter, not harder

You might think the best way to study is rereading the textbook or rewatching a lecture. However, it usually doesn’t work. Try creating a Quizlet or flashcards with the material so you can test your knowledge. Also, studying many days in advance is more effective than one cram session before the exam. 

1. Study Buddies

Getting a study group together is a great way to study efficiently — if you have the willpower to avoid distractions. You can quiz each other or divide and conquer on helping each other learn certain sections of material. If you often fall to distraction, find a friend to go to the library with that is going to hold you accountable and keep you focused. 

1. Choose the right location 

The environment that surrounds you while studying is important for the success of learning. Find a space where you feel motivated and focused. If you need silence, head to the library. If you need some background noise, try a local coffee shop. 

1. Take a break

While it may seem like you need to study at every waking moment to learn all the material, it is only going to negatively impact you. Go for a walk, take a nap and do something for yourself. 

Hopefully these tips can make your finals week a little less daunting. Take time for yourself to survive the marathon of finals week! Good luck, you got this!

The Meghan Trainor Renaissance

By: Kyra Macomber

According to a TikTok posted on Chris Olsen’s page on Nov. 18, we are currently in a “Meghan Trainor Renaissance,” which he claims to have had a hand in ushering in. Although this may be ambitious for just any influencer, Chris Olsen has truly impacted the current trajectory of Meghan Trainor’s career in the music industry. Through a slew of brilliant social media and PR moves, Olsen, Trainor and their teams have changed the general public’s opinion on the pop star.

Meghan Trainor’s musical career took off with her 2014 pop hit, “All About That Bass.” Trainor had cemented herself as an artist to watch as her career began taking off. However, at 21-years-old she had a main demographic of 30 to 40-year-old-women. Because of her slightly older listeners, her numbers were lower on popular streaming services of the time, such as Spotify and Pandora, so Trainor seemed to mostly fizzle out of the main public eye after about two years, despite her Grammy Award.

However, this status began to change when the star created a TikTok account and began posting semi-regularly on the app. Trainor was a pioneer on this app, being one of the first celebrities to embrace it before TikTok hit its mainstream popularity. Although her TikTok’s were garnering attention, with most of her older work on the app getting one to three million views, this would only be the beginning.

Enter Chris Olsen, 24, who began posting to TikTok regularly in early 2020. Basing his early videos on his then-relationship with fellow TikToker Ian Paeget, the two gained immense following and success, with a combined nine million followers at the end of their relationship. Following their breakup, Olsen was able to successfully pivot his content to focus on himself and his interests. He now has nine million followers on his own.

In April of 2022, Olsen appeared on the podcast “Workin’ on It,'' hosted by Trainor and her brother. Here it was revealed that Olsen and Trainor were childhood best friends and regaled listeners with stories of their early friendship. From this point on, followers of each were treated to many TikTok’s of the two together, posted on both of their pages. From here, they both gained massive attention, with Trainor garnering 15 million views in her first TikTok featuring Olsen.

Around June of 2022, Olsen took charge of Trainor’s media presence. He’s responsible for curating her content, suggesting TikTok ideas and appearing frequently in her videos posted to the app. Although from the outside this may appear as a random matching, looking at the details reveals a brilliant PR strategy from Olsen, Trainor and both their teams. Olsen naturally connects with younger viewers on his own TikTok page, and the videos featuring him on Trainor’s page garnered massive attention compared to her other content. Younger people were once again aware of Meghan Trainor as an entity and were beginning to follow her account. Trainor was also preparing for the release of her new album, “Takin’ It Back,” so having an influx of new listeners and fans now was imperative to her success. So, Chris Olsen was put on Meghan Trainor’s payroll, launching her TikTok following to 15.4 million, with all her TikTok’s reaching anywhere from two to 20 million views.

This impressive maneuver by Olsen and Trainor may have saved her career, as well as given Olsen a steady paycheck in the face of an unstable influencer environment. In the future, do not be surprised to see more mainstream celebrities team up with influencers following Trainor and Olsen’s success. We are living in the Meghan Trainor renaissance.

An ICONic Experience

By: Leona Falconer

I truly got to see the power of influence and communication at ICON 2022. I had the incredible opportunity to connect with fellow Public Relations Student Society of America peers and leading industry professionals in Dallas, Texas.

Myself and seven other members traveled to the Gaylord Texan Resort for international conference Nov. 11-15. As the first in-person conference since the COVID-19 pandemic began, it was an exciting opportunity to network and invest in professional development.

This experience taught me valuable lessons in branding, social media marketing, reputation management and accessible communications. We had the chance to hear from major companies like Taco Bell, Frito-Lay, Delta Air Lines and Hilton. There were also countless firms and agencies in attendance, such as Edelman, BCW and Lambert and Co.

I especially appreciated the opportunity to learn more about furthering diversity, equity and inclusion in the PR industry for all communities. We heard a moving speech from Shanita Baraka Akintonde, a Chicago native that has smashed setbacks and blazed a path for black women in the PR industry.

I was particularly touched by a keynote address from Marlee Matlin. Matlin is an actress, author and activist. She was the first deaf performer to win an Academy Award. As she signed her speech, Matlin’s translator helped to orate her life story. She shared her struggles against adversity, and how she broke down barriers and made a name for herself as both an actress and an activist.

I left this conference feeling more assured than ever in my future profession. As a student that entered college in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, this was one of the first in-person conferences I’ve had the opportunity to attend. I truly got to see and experience the wonderful PR community surrounding and supporting all of us.

This experience was impactful for both my personal and professional goals. I encourage all PRSSA members to consider attending ICON next year in Nashville – it’s an experience you won’t regret!

Public Relations Within the Fashion Industry

By: Sofia Randazzo

Public relations is integrated in everything around us – food, automotive, theater, music and fashion. Public relations professionals have the important but under-publicized responsibility of maintaining the relationship between businesses and customers.

When it comes to the fashion industry, public relations is crucial for advertising, customer service, promotional events, fashion shows and more. Without fashion public relations, neither the fashion nor public relations industry would be the same.

Numerous people contribute to the development of the trends that define us and make up the fashion business as we know it today. It's essential that businesses in this sector do everything possible to get customers to come back to a business when the fresh, popular trends quickly become outdated. 

A fashion brand becomes extremely popular if they have a differential advantage from their competitors. When creating that differential advantage, that job falls on the public relations professional. Here, they brainstorm campaigns, events and new experiences that customers would remember forever. 

A public relations professional has to wear a lot of hats in the fashion industry. The general roles they play are collaborating with designers to test new fabrics, boosting brands and fashion houses, helping with runway shows and product debuts, capturing and editing content for social media and media marketing. 

The continual evolution of fashion is caused by the nexus between public relations and the fashion industry. These organizations can prosper and expand thanks to their convergence. 

My Experience in Nonprofit PR

By: Christian Talley

This past summer, I was presented with the opportunity to work an internship at The Children’s Center, a nonprofit in downtown Detroit that works with underprivileged children and families in the Wayne County area. 

Throughout the internship, I learned new things that I didn’t have the chance to learn in class at Central Michigan University. My supervisor was extremely helpful as well, as he understood how necessary it was for me to see what the public relations industry is really like. 

I experienced every aspect of PR, from creating newsletters, curating social media posts, using graphic design and learning how to request a proposal to PR firms. 

I was also able to connect with other firms and professionals in the public relations industry. My supervisor allowed me to listen in on important meetings, talk to the heads of PR firms and even give my input on a few ideas that they had.

However, I didn’t just interact with public relations professionals. I was also able to talk to and learn a new skill from a graphic designer, who showed me how to use Adobe Illustrator. Additionally, she helped me understand the correct programs to use depending on what I’m trying to create. 

Although I didn’t have much interest in working in the nonprofit side of PR before my internship, I can now say I have lots of interest in it now after my stint with The Children’s Center. Hopefully, after I graduate, I can work there full time and learn even more from my supervisor and fellow PR professionals. 

Becoming a Better PR Professional: Minoring in Broadcast and Cinematic Arts

By: Cora Fassett

Broadcast and cinematic arts. Those words are a bit daunting, aren’t they? Don’t let them be. The BCA program at Central Michigan University surrounds media, whether television, radio, film or social media. 

I first became familiar with the program because of my mom. She is an alumna who got her master’s degree in BCA. I always thought it was fascinating to hear what she had to do in her classes. She would write news stories, produce live television and critique movies and TV shows in her classes. 

My dad also influenced my decision to study this field. He took some BCA classes and was a radio DJ for CMU’s student-run radio station, WMHW 91.5 FM. Hearing this information made me realize that having a BCA minor can give me unique opportunities to make me a better job candidate.

As a BCA minor, I have learned how to edit audio and video, critique media, write news stories, make video storyboards and so much more. Through these classes, I have met and become close with many aspiring journalists. Integrative public relations students have been told countless times that having relationships with journalists while in the field is crucial to being a great PR professional. 

Furthermore, thanks to an audio production class required for the minor, I had an experience that helped me host my own radio segment. Every Thursday, like my dad, I would go on air for an hour and talk about music and entertainment news on WMHW 91.5 FM. Through my time at the station, I learned how radio works through hands-on training. I can apply this experience to my PR career because I have a first-hand understanding of the local radio power, which is often overlooked. Not only that, but I know how to write messages that translate well to audiences over the air.

If you are an IPR student looking to add on a minor, consider BCA. You’ll gain experience and an understanding of the media that you can’t have without this minor.

Public Relations: Why Is It Important?

By: Kyra Macomber

Public relations is one of the fastest-growing professions in the modern world. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth was at 8% in 2021 – much faster than average. How is this possible when so many people and businesses don’t know what public relations practitioners do in the first place? So, why is public relations important?

Public relations, although difficult to pinpoint exactly because of the many distinct aspects, was finally given a proper definition in 1982 by the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA). Public relations is described as a strategic communication process that builds mutually beneficial relationships between an organization and the public.

Public relations exists in any moderately sized company today. Sometimes these jobs are labeled as communications or marketing jobs, but employees perform the duties of a public relations practitioner. These practitioners help create credibility for a brand and connect with their audience or consumers through their values.

This can happen by increasing a brand’s online presence through press releases and events that are open to the public. Through these means, a public relations practitioner can help build long-term brand loyalty, which drives sales. Therefore, a company wants and needs to utilize the power of public relations.

Public relations practitioners are also trained in crisis communication, which can help companies and brands during times of turmoil. Whether it was a defective product or an ad campaign taken the wrong way, public relations professionals know how to regain their audience’s trust.

By learning how important public relations is and how it is utilized, you can begin seeing how these tactics used by public relations practitioners play out in the real world.

Discovering My Passion For PR

By: Jolie Chene

When I first came to Central Michigan University, I didn't know what I wanted to major in. I tried out CMU's integrative public relations program starting with IPR 101. In this class, we had to do a project on our dream job.

When I got the assignment, I didn't have a dream job, so I researched different types of jobs within the PR field. I came across a LinkedIn ad for a social media manager for NASCAR.

I chose this as my dream job project because it had so many different attributes that interested me. I would be able to attend the races, travel with the team, take pictures and videos and promote the team on social media.

Before studying PR, I never thought running social media for a NASCAR team was possible. One of my favorite things about PR – as a major and a job – is the many different avenues you can explore within it.

I wanted to continue with PR after trying the class because I was very interested in everything about it. I felt like it was finally something that I enjoyed learning about and wanted to stick with.

The integrative public relations program at CMU teaches you many different subjects: journalism, broadcasting, multimedia, communications, advertising and business management. There’s a wide variety of classes to take and skills to learn within the major.

I fell in love with PR after I took the IPR 101 class and saw all the different skills I will come to learn. I want to go into PR because any job within the field would be a dream job.

Exploring PR Paths: The Music Industry

By: Kendall Weishaupt

The field of public relations is needed in almost every industry.

I want to explore the industry of music public relations.

What if I worked as a public relations professional for Universal Music Group? This is a global organization that deals with every genre of music. Working in public relations for this group would mean balancing many clients and projects at the same time.

The idea of working for multiple clients or music artists is exciting. A large part of the job would be public relations campaigns for upcoming albums. It would have to start with researching the audience and the listeners. When do they listen? How do they listen? What time of year will a new album be most significant?

Once the research is done, it’s time to communicate with the artist about their vision for the overall mood of the album. What will it sound like? What will the artwork and promotional material look like? After that, a brand kit and media kit would need to be made. Then, as the public relations professional, it would be my job to start getting interviews with talk shows, magazines and news outlets.

After a campaign is rolled out, it’s time to watch it unfold and measure the public’s perception. I would analyze the feedback and be ready to handle any type of crisis.

Music is an event-driven industry, so I hope as a public relations professional in that field I would also be able to utilize event planning skills. Events such as album listening parties and show opportunities would be promotions I would plan. In addition, I could help organize what a tour would look like.

Planning a tour and booking venues is not something I, as a public relations professional, would be doing. However, there is much more that goes into planning a tour. I would help plan the promotional and creative side, which would entail another campaign of how to announce and promote the tour.

There may not always be an album, show or tour to constantly promote, so the basics of the job would come down to image management and crisis communication. What are the public and the media saying about my client? Is the brand or image of my client where they want it to be? Do I have to step in?

Working in any public relations field will always be exciting, stressful and busy. Working in the music industry would be a dream. I hope for my busy days to consist of music related tasks.

Grasping the Rules of Associated Press Style

By: Elizabeth Hamilton

As a practicing public relations professional at Central Michigan University, understanding the Associated Press style may seem like an arduous task.

Associated Press style is the go-to English style and usage guide for journalism and news writing.

I am the Director of Publications for the Public Relations Student Society of America at CMU. Before leaving this position on May 7, it is essential to help fellow public relations professionals grasp the rules of understanding the AP style.

The first thing any journalist or public relations professional should do is purchase the latest edition of the Associated Press Stylebook or subscribe online.

The AP Stylebook is considered the industry “bible.” For more than 50 years, journalists have turned to the AP stylebook for everything from style rules to trusted best practices. The style guide dictates rules for grammar and punctuation, styles for numbers, capitalization, acronyms, abbreviations and more.

Second, writing consistently in AP style is not possible to achieve overnight. Even some of the greatest AP style gurus look up the rules now and then.

Understanding AP style takes constant practice and then some. Will Anderson, who has a doctorate in Instructional Technology, and is a Broadcasting and Cinematic Arts professor at CMU, said, “During the summer, I try to dedicate an hour or so every day to writing. I encourage each student to write at least 750 words a day. Becoming a good writer and finding what formulas work takes time and persistence.”

Next, pretend you are writing for print in the 1950s.

Although it may seem bizarre, it is critical to remember a time when writing space was limited, and it was costly for news outlets to correct errors. Keep in mind you are not writing a ten-page paper for an English class. Avoid using unnecessary filler words like “this” or “that” to make every imaginary penny count.

Finally, test your knowledge.

Continuing to challenge yourself will be a tremendous help. There are thousands of free online quizzes available. Taking AP style quizzes online allows you to practice specific categories such as capitalization, numbers, punctuations, titles and more. Now, you can target any unfamiliar areas needing extra attention.

If you are struggling with AP style, do not get discouraged. Becoming a good writer takes time, practice and effort. Utilize every chance to write, and you will see improvements in your writing.

Analysis: PR Scandals Striking Michigan Universities

By: Stacy White

College is a thrilling time in any young adult’s life. Many students spend hours researching their prospective school, while others have known their dream school for years.

The state of Michigan boasts many prominent universities such as the University of Michigan, Michigan State University, Wayne State University, Oakland University, Central Michigan University and many more notable colleges. Students across the nation eagerly compete for an admission spot into one of Michigan’s esteemed universities. Despite their respected reputations, these institutions have not evaded damaging press. Recently, a series of scandals have swept across Michigan universities. Each school has a public relations team to help maintain its reputation. Each group helps their universities make informed decisions to help with any crises or conflicts.

Within the last year, controversies have arisen amongst several Michigan universities. As the institutions dealt with their crises, each public relations team devised a unique strategy to mitigate and solve their scandals.

Oakland University – Rochester, Mich.

Tuesday, Jan. 4, 2022, Oakland University accidentally awarded 5,500 students full-ride scholarships via email.

The public relations team sent an apology email within two hours after the incident. The university claimed a human error. Additionally, OU mentioned that the students did not meet the eligibility requirements for the scholarship. In the end, the university encouraged students to submit any new test scores to qualify for additional scholarships.

The University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, Mich.

Saturday, Jan. 15, 2022, former university President Mark Schlissel was fired as a result of an inappropriate relationship between him and a subordinate.

The university was quick with its response. Emails were immediately released that indicted Dr. Schlissel. Within several hours an interim president was appointed. By remaining transparent with faculty and students, Michigan’s public relations team remained in control of the narrative the entire time – releasing all information to the media themselves.

Central Michigan University – Mount Pleasant, Mich.

Friday, Jan. 21, 2022, 58 Central Michigan University applicants were mistakenly notified that they had received a full-ride (tuition plus room and board) scholarship.

Instead of the public relations team reaching out, the director of admissions personally called each student two days later to inform them of the unfortunate situation. When the media first became aware of the mishap, CMU was vague about how many students were affected. The university would also not say how it would prevent such a situation in the future.

Eventually, CMU decided to award all 58 students a full-tuition scholarship. However, the award no longer covers room and board expenses. Many still wonder how this will be paid for, but the university wishes to honor its word. Skepticism continues to surround this scandal following the highly criticized PR response to the mistake.

CMU PRSSA is Firing Up Red

By: Natalie Batten

As a public relations student, I am always looking for opportunities to enhance my resume and practice the skills I am learning in the classroom. One unique way to get involved is to participate in the PRSSA Bateman Case Study Competition. 

The Bateman Competition is a national event that began in 1973. Every year, more than 75 collegiate teams compete to address the case study by creating a campaign and implementing the tactics over the one month implementation period. 

Each team that enters the competition can have up to six students and works with a faculty advisor as well as a professional advisor. This provides a great opportunity to learn from a professional in the field as well as work closely with faculty members and other students in the major in an environment outside of class. 

This year, the client is the Lymphoma Research Foundation, the nation’s largest non-profit that exclusively focuses on serving those suffering from lymphoma through funding innovative research, education programs, outreach and patient services. 

CMU PRSSA’s Bateman Team has been hard at work generating ideas over the last few months and we are currently in our implementation period. Our goal is to increase awareness of the Lymphoma Research Foundation on CMU’s campus by engaging with our campus community.

The CMU Bateman Team is hosting a podcast called Lymphoma Talks, where once a week we feature a discussion with someone who has been impacted by lymphoma. We are also hosting two tabling events with information about the Lymphoma Research Foundation, and making cards for lymphoma patients. We are also hosting a Blaze Pizza fundraiser to raise money for the Lymphoma Research Foundation. A full list of our activities can be found below. 

For more information on the work we are doing, visit: www.cmuprssa.com/fireupred

If you are a college student with a PRSSA chapter at your school, look into joining the Bateman Competition next year! Information usually comes out in the fall. It is a great learning experience and opportunity to practice the skills you are learning in your classes by creating a public relations campaign to address a real issue in the world. 

The Lymphoma Research Foundation

By: Madison Lillie

Founded in 1995, the Lymphoma Research Foundation (LRF) is determined to eliminate lymphoma by funding innovative research and serving those touched by lymphoma. The LRF is dedicated to helping patients, survivors, caregivers and families understand their diagnosis and make sure they have access to the support and resources they need. As the nation’s largest non-profit organization devoted exclusively to funding lymphoma research, the LRF is committed to supporting the lymphoma community through evidence-based education, support services and resources. 

Today, more than one million people are currently living with lymphoma. Nearly 90,000 adolescents and young adults (AYAs) ages 15 to 39 years are diagnosed with cancer each year. Lymphoma, the most common type of blood cancer, accounts for nearly 1-in-5 cancer diagnoses among young people. It’s incredibly important to know the most common lymphoma symptoms you should watch out for. 

It’s important to seek medical help if you are experiencing persistent fever, unexplained weight loss over months, drenching night sweats or persistently swollen lymph nodes that don’t improve or are getting larger, in the neck, underarm or groin. If you are experiencing these symptoms, consider reaching out to your primary care physician or university health center.

Through lymphoma-specific research grants and consortia, the LRF seeks to better understand more than 100 subtypes of lymphoma and support the development of new treatments. By going to the LRF website you can find an endless amount of resources on lymphoma. 

Lymphoma is more common than people may think but there’s no need to panic. By educating ourselves and others about this disease we can assist in catching cases early on and prevent lymphoma from taking any more lives. Thanks to the amazing work done by the LRF, those fighting this disease have the resources and support they need to continue fighting. 

Spring 2022: The Semester We Get Organized

By: Rachel Bednarz

When I first started college I severely struggled with staying organized and remembering all the tasks I had. I was frequently writing myself notes in my phone, on my planner and in random notebooks that would get lost and forgotten.

As a junior in college, I entered my second year as a resident assistant, accepted an internship and stepped into a leadership role in my organization. I knew I had to do more to stay organized and better serve the people who looked up to me.

Beginning a journey for better organization habits can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some tips I have found for starting the new semester in a calm, cool and organized manner.

Maintain a Study Schedule

First, my secret to homework success. I’ve learned to start a new homework routine by scheduling one hour a day Monday through Thursday to work on homework. Take Friday and Saturday to rest and recharge before evaluating the system on Sunday.

Use Sunday to pick up all the pieces and finish things you didn't have time to do during the week. Then evaluate whether one hour a day works for you or if you need to increase it. I also use Sunday to organize my planner and write a to-do list for the week ahead.

This system has helped me start many semesters off on the right foot and remain organized throughout the year.

Use your planner

Whether it’s physical or virtual, a planner is an amazing tool for scheduling out your time and ensuring you aren’t overbooked. If you’re someone who has never used a planner before starting can seem impossible, but remember this is a tool for you and you can use it however you want. 

An easy way to start is by putting your class and meeting schedules into an online calendar like Outlook or Google. These planners allow you to add notes and even share your meetings with other people who are invited. 

If you’re wanting to go the physical route, January is the perfect time to go planner shopping. With a physical planner you can write out deadlines, meeting times and make notes for yourself along the way.

Organize your deadlines

Keeping a running list of your deadlines throughout the semester can help you stay on top of what is due next and keep an eye out for projects that could creep up on you. 

One way to do this is to organize your deadlines into an Excel or Google spreadsheet. If your instructor has provided a course schedule in the syllabus, work through each week and log the most important due dates. Once you have worked through each course, you can sort the entire sheet by date.

Using this method, you can print out the sheet and carry it with you or keep a copy on your computer and continue to update it as the semester carries on. 

Use a reminder app

There are countless apps dedicated to keeping your school life organized. Apps like My Study Life or Notion will send you a reminder notification before your class starts or when you have an assignment due. 

These apps can be helpful if you’re not sure where to start when setting up your planner and have a simple interface that allows you to design the layout and reminders that work best for you. 

The takeaways

Staying organized can seem stressful and overwhelming, but with the help of some online or physical tools you can stay on top of everything you need to accomplish this semester.

CMU PRSSA Joins Forces with Ball State’s Chapter of PRSSA

By: Kasia Naessens

Looking for a good networking opportunity to practice your public relations skills? Join us for our last meeting of the school year on Thursday, April 29 at 7 p.m. We will join Ball State’s Chapter of PRSSA for a night of networking and pitching. 

Here is what you can expect:

• Get to know more about Ball State and its chapter.

• Test your AP Style with a Kahoot quiz. 

• Meet and connect with some new faces. 

• Exercise your pitching and PR skills. 

If you are a current CMU PRSSA member, check your email for the Zoom link and additional information. You can also check our social media pages for updates.  

This meeting is a great opportunity to expand your network and enhance your PR skills. We understand this year was difficult, but this gathering will be a great way to wrap it up. On behalf of CMU PRSSA, thank you to our members for your continued involvement and support of our chapter. We appreciate you all and hope to see you at our final meeting! 

Sell yourself

By: Kasia Naessens

COVID-19 created many challenges for everyone, especially college students. We are expected to prepare for our future through classes, extracurriculars and securing internships. Now the pandemic halted everything as we know, sending us on a different trajectory.

With the virtual world evolving and companies cutting employees and internship opportunities, how do we make ourselves stand out and secure employment? 

Get Involved 

One of the best things you can do for yourself is gain experience. Participate in organizations that strike your interests and passions. Try to be part of executive boards and committees by landing leadership roles within them. Future employers find it intriguing when your resume shows you value experience outside the classroom. Most organizations are meeting via Zoom or Webex so jump on calls and see what CMU has to offer! 

Network

The saying, “It’s not about what you know, it’s all about who you know,” has a lot of truth to it. Building relationships with people is how I landed two internships while at CMU, and I am hoping it will help me secure a final internship.

My advice is to utilize the network you have now and grow it, especially if you want to end up in a specific location. One of the perks of COVID-19 is the ability to grow your relationships through technology platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams. Meet with people across the country and ask them questions, learn more about their journey, their company and their lives. I guarantee you professionals  are more than willing to talk with you and help you in any way possible. You just have to take the first step to do it. 

Use LinkedIn

LinkedIn coincides with networking, but I still want to touch on it. Take the time to thoroughly add documents and write about what you have to offer. Upload your resume, link any articles you may have written and published, link your online portfolio, list the skills you have.

Do not be afraid to reach out to people from the companies you want to work for. Send them a message when you request a connection and let them know your goals. If it feels uncomfortable, that is good because it means you are growing personally and professionally.

Resume

Be sure to tweak your resume for every position you apply for. If the listing has skills or duties within the job description, slide those keywords in your resume so it has a better chance of being matched in the system recruiters use.

Make sure your resume has correct spelling and grammar. It shows you diligently looked through it and are detail-oriented. Lastly, let your resume express your personality. We are in the PR field and creative juices flow through us naturally. Show it off! 

Online Portfolios

I am a Leader Advancement Scholar (LAS) so part of our protocol requires us to showcase an online portfolio. Your online portfolio is a great way to brand yourself and market your abilities as a student and a professional. Upload the assignments and projects you completed and show them off. Consider investing in a domain name. I bought mine and it feels satisfying knowing I have my name on my website that showcases everything I am capable of.

Cover Letters

To write a cover letter, or to not? Cover letters seem to be controversial. Some professionals tell me to write them, others tell me to not bother. Personally, I write cover letters, but I am very intentional about what I put in it. I take the job description and put it right next to my cover letter draft. Much like the resume, I highlight key skills I know I have experience with, list those and discuss how I applied them to situations.

I also like to take a moment to explain why I am interested in the company through a personal story so the hiring committee gets a sense of who I am. It is usually no more than two or three sentences, but they realize I have a personality; I am not just another face in the crowd. Whether you choose to write a cover letter or not, that is up to you. Make sure you are intentional through every sentence if you create one. 

Be Persistent and Don’t Give Up 

Going back to the LinkedIn section, it can be uncomfortable emailing the department or individual accepting the applications. You may not want to bother these people or cross the line, but do it anyway. Send them messages or emails asking the status of your application or what they look for in hiring employees. The worst thing that can happen is they ghost you or your application is denied. Guess what? There are plenty of other career opportunities out there. If they do not reply, clearly, that is not a company you want to be part of.  

Job hunting can be stressful and discouraging. Every professional I connected with told me they received hundreds of rejection letters before they landed their current roles. The best advice they provided me with is to continue working hard because that dream internship or job is out there. You just have to stay determined and persistent no matter the circumstances. 

Sell Yourself

All of this is easier said than done, I understand that. But put the effort in now because this is the foundation for your future. My dad was a pharmaceutical sales representative for 30 years, so he always preaches about making sure I sell myself because I am a product. Take these steps (and many more) to do just that: sell yourself.

Should you continue to research during a global pandemic?

By: Molly Anderson

The answer is YES! Research is an essential part of public relations. It is used as a tool to prevent crises, develop strategies, reach target audiences, generate publicity, monitor competition, test messages and sustain credibility. 

Currently, we all are experiencing a global pandemic. With this pandemic, there are safety guidelines that must be followed: social distancing, working from home and wearing appropriate face coverings. These restrictions can make it harder to collect and analyze data; however, safety is a top priority, and as PR professionals, we should take this time as an opportunity to learn and adapt. 

Primary research

The method of gathering original information directly from subjects or real-world observations, such as surveys, interviews, focus groups, observations and experiments. This form of research usually involves more face to face interactions; however, these tactics need to be altered for a more socially distanced approach. 

-       Surveys are still an effective option for collecting data; for example, social media apps like Instagram and Snapchat allow users to create and publish their own surveys, which their followers can answer and send feedback. Other forms of surveys like mail and email can still be organized and distributed while following the current safety guidelines. 

-       Interviews can still be managed virtually through WebEx and Zoom calls; this allows the interviewer and the interviewee to talk face-to-face while remaining socially distant. 

-       Focus groups can also be carried out virtually through WebEx and Zoom calls. The focus group’s moderator and participants can still communicate efficiently, and data can be collected safely from home. 

-       Observations can still be recorded by staying 6 feet away from people, wearing a mask and taking proper safety precautions. 

Preliminary research

Preliminary research, also known as secondary, is the process of gathering existing information. Sources include published studies, reports, library databases, social media or search engines. It costs less and requires less time than primary research. With the technological advances, we have today, we should continue to take advantage of the internet; however, if you visit libraries or other public places, continue to wear a mask and sanitize your workspace. 

Though this is an unprecedented time, we can continue to conduct research, safely, by using these new modifications. 

Five ways to avoid burnout with a college schedule

By Rachel Bednarz

To be completely honest, I’m a perfectionist. I want to get everything done and I want to do it all myself. This lifestyle can be exhausting and impractical for many college students, and oftentimes end with burnout.  

Lately I have been working on finding ways to relax my mind without feeling lazy or unproductive. Here are a few ideas to avoid burnout and give your brain a break in the middle of a bust semester. 

1.     Go for a walk.

      Getting outside is a great way to begin clearing your head. Many research studies 

      have found being around greenery is enough to relieve everyday stress. Combine that 

      with getting a little exercise and you’ll have a calm mind in no time.  

2.     Grab coffee with a friend.

      Times are tough, everyone knows that. Take some time out of your day to connect 

      with an old friend. They’ll be happy to see you and they can probably relate to the 

      stresses you carry. 

3.     Start a sketchbook or journal. 

     Writing or sketching is good for your mind. Put your thoughts down on a piece of 

     paper, they don’t have to be organized and they don’t have to make sense to anyone 

     but you! 

4.     Take care of some plants.  

      Taking care of another being, whether it be a plant or a pet, can help you feel 

      productive throughout your day. Watering my plants and feeding my cat always 

      reminds me to drink some water and eat lunch myself. 

5.     Call your family. 

      As college students, we’re away from our families for long periods of time. Take 

      some time to remember your parents were in their twenty-somethings once too, they 

      might have some advice for you. If they don’t have advice to offer, they can at least 

      lend a listening ear. 

Hopefully these five ideas are enough to get us all started on a journey to better self-care. Intentionally practicing just one of these each day is a good way to get yourself into a new self-loving routine.  

A. Victoria MAE, marketing company, pivots and grows through COVID-19 pandemic

By: Alexis Schuchert

A. Victoria MAE, a marketing company based in Royal Oak, Mich., is one of many businesses affected by COVID-19. Ashleigh Laabs, Founder & Chief Growth Officer, and her team were well prepared to work from home; however, the company still had to pivot and stay on their toes. Despite the economic hardships this virus caused, AVM became a strong support outlet for clients while staying true to its core values. 

In the interview below, Ashleigh shares:

• How AVM was affected

• Insights on work-from-home environments

• How this pandemic may affect these industries long term

• Advice for new and soon-to-be college graduates

Q: How was A. Victoria MAE’s transition from non-COVID to COVID? How did this transition impact the company (from in-person to virtual)?

A: “Pivot is the buzzword currently used in the entrepreneurial space. A pivot typically has to happen on the drop of a dime, which is the case for a business during COVID. A. Victoria MAE was already operating as a team on a virtual-basis and platform. Therefore, our team dynamic did not change. What did change was the way our clients were comfortable interacting. However, COVID basically forced them to have to operate this way with us, and we already had the platforms to do so.”

Q: Did you have to make any major changes to your company and what you offer to clients because of the pandemic? Did you notice major changes other PR companies had to make?

A: “[We] became a stronger support outlet for our clients related to communication. Other PR companies were really flipping to crisis response mode and one marketing company I know even started a food company out of their pivot!”

Q: As some companies are ‘for’ working remotely and some companies are ‘against’ it, what’s your take on it? Do you think it negatively impacts the workday or do you think you can be just as successful whether you’re in the office or at home?

A: “I have always been FOR a work from home office environment since starting A. Victoria MAE, and we have operated that way as a team from day one. It is a core of the environment of AVM from the beginning. It does take discipline and for some people that is challenging. However, I look for those for the AVM team who are a fit with this characteristic to be able to be successful in the environment that we have.”

Q: As COVID isn’t going away anytime soon, how do you think this is going to impact your company long-term? 

A: “Cash flow and net profit are the biggest impact to the company currently. We have seen decreased sales and increased sales all over the place. Planning is really challenging right now. Predictability is gone, but we have no intention of going away.”

Q: How do you think it’s going to impact the PR/communications/marketing industries overall? 

A: I think much of the industry will be impacted due to the event and entertainment industries being so hard hit and much of the PR/communications/marketing industries are related to this. The strong will stand and those that can’t evolve, pivot and be flexible won’t.”

Q: Is there anything us graduates or soon-to-be graduates should prepare for?

A: “Prepare to know how to show your worth and value. I graduated in December of 2007 and moved to metro Detroit in February of 2008, and the recession hit, well while I was moving.  However, I still found a job (prepare for starting salaries to not be where they were six months ago) and stick to your core values. Don’t settle!”

Q: Any advice for newly graduated individuals or soon-to-be graduates about to enter this ‘new normal’ of a workforce?  

A: “Don’t get stuck on the buzz words. Don’t call it a ‘new normal’. We aren’t allowed to use that phrase at A. Victoria MAE. I heard someone say at the beginning of this pandemic that a great business leader said about a previous recession – we just didn’t participate or aren’t going to participate – something of that like. I thought that was a really optimistic view of what is happening and why I outlawed ‘new normal’ because what is normal anyway? We just want to keep growing. That is really our directive. Growing might not mean financially, but many other things. 

Ashleigh and her team turned a nerve-wracking, scary environment into a situation full of learning and growth - now that’s what kick a** professionals do. I leave with you with a few final thoughts from Ashleigh:

 “Think like an entrepreneur, even if you aren’t one or don’t want to be one – how are you going to help a company? How are you going to take that dollar and make it $500? Be flexible and learn to go with the flow. Sometimes as communicators, marketers and PR pros, we are planners, but [we] don’t get that luxury right now. Be strategic! Just because we don’t have a lot of time lately to plan, doesn’t mean [we] forego strategy. The process might just have to be expedited.”