Mount Union’s Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) chapter invited a student guest speaker from Kent State University to speak on campus Wednesday night.
Ryan Collins is senior public relations major at Kent State University. Collins came to Mount Union’s campus to share personal advice and tips on how to be a successful student. Collins has had several internships and studied abroad in Italy. He is currently Kent State’s PRSSA online media manager; in which he is responsible for their website, Twitter account and photography.
Collins first tip for success was to “take every advantage to study abroad.” A study abroad experience can add a lot to a resume. “Employers will love it,” said Collins. Studying abroad shows independence and initiative to potential employers. It is important to be able to understand another culture that is different than your own, according to Collins. “You can go out and learn something new every single day,” he added.
Collins second tip was to become a “rock star student” by finding a niche within the organizations students are involved with. He explained that it was important for students to find something they are good at and enjoy doing. Being passionate about PR will help students land spots in internships. Collins advised students to have at least two internships before graduating and to network with professionals whenever possible.
The third tip for success that Collins gave was extending online media and making a “personal brand.” Creating a blog and expanding writing skills will provide students with work to show potential employers. Collins advised students to “write when you feel passionate.” Blogs are a great way to reach out to potential employers and show them what you’re made of.
Mount Union’s PRSSA chapter had Collins visit as a kick-off event for the year. This organization holds bi-weekly meetings and is planning some larger events within the upcoming month. PRSSA is an active organization on campus that is always welcoming new members. For more information on how to join PRSSA, e-mail President Hannah Shaffer or Vice President Sarah Kelly.
