#1: What is public relations?

Public relations helps our complex, pluralistic society to reach decisions and function more effectively by contributing to mutual understanding among groups and institutions. It serves to bring private and public policies into harmony.

Public relations serves a wide variety of institutions in society such as businesses, trade unions, government agencies, voluntary associations, foundations, hospitals, schools, colleges and religious institutions. To achieve their goals, these institutions must develop effective relationships with many different audiences or publics such as employees, members, customers, local communities, shareholders, and other institutions, and with society at large.

The managements of institutions need to understand the attitudes and values of their publics in order to achieve institutional goals. The goals themselves are shaped by the external environment. The public relations practitioner acts as a counselor to management and as a mediator, helping to translate private aims into reasonable, publicly acceptable policy and action.

(Formally adopted by PRSA Assembly, November 6, 1982, www.prsa.org)

#2: What is PRSSA?

PRSSA is an acronym for Public Relations Student Society of America. It is a society established by PRSA, the Public Relations Society of America, with the purpose of establishing relationships between students and PR practitioners.

#3: How does someone become a member?

If you want to become a certified member there will be an annual dues/fee of $55 for national dues plus $20 for WSU chapter dues ($75 total). Dues must be turned in before November 1st or March 1st. You can pay the dues though PRSSA national portal. For instructions, click here.

#4: Can I attend meetings without being a paid member?

Yes, you can. Everyone is welcome.

#5: How often does the membership need to be renewed?

Students who are existing members must renew annually – paying both national and chapter dues. Students renew on the anniversary of their original membership in November or March.

#6: What is the benefit of being a paid member?

It is easier to become a member of PRSA if you are a paid PRSSA member. Many resources are available through PRSSA, such as access to job postings across the nation, national conferences to meet other PRSSA members and PRSA professionals, as well as the Bateman competition, which allows students to hone their PR skills and gain experience by conducting research, planning and implementing a campaign, and preparing a final report for a real client. Paid PRSSA members also have exclusive access to scholarship opportunities available through the organization.

#7: When and where are the meetings held on campus?

Usually, PRSSA members meet the third Tuesday of the month from 4 – 5 pm for networking, workshops, webinars and panel discussions. Go to meetings and meetups to find our schedule.

#8: Who are the advisors for WSU’s chapter?

Cara Hawkins-Jedlicka (Pullman)
Liz Candello (Vancouver)
Brett Atwood (Everett)

#9: Do I really need an internship? Why?

YES! Most entry level public relations jobs require experience. The best way to gain valuable experience is through an internship.

#10: Will PRSSA help students find internships?

Yes! Internship and job information is updated regularly at Murrow Jobs. The national PRSSA JobCenter also provides many opportunities for internships.

If you have more questions, contact prssa@wsu.edu