PRSSA 2024: Inspiring Growth, Networking and Future Opportunities

by Grace Fee 

This year, members of the Drewry Chapter of PRSSA at UGA have found value in the life-shaping opportunities, mentorship and community this organization provides. From impactful guest speakers to collaborative committees, students across all levels shared their gratitude for the personal growth they’ve experienced.

For sophomore Riley Martin, a new Grady admit, PRSSA has provided invaluable guidance in navigating the advertising and public relations field. “Learning about the field from guest speakers and hearing about Grady from peers has been so rewarding,” Martin said. Her favorite speaker, Scott Cuppari, led a resume-building workshop that she found particularly helpful. “I’m enrolled to take his class next semester, and I’m really excited to learn more from him,” she added.

Riley Martin, 2nd Year Public Relations Student

Junior public relations major Price Andersen highlighted the community aspect of PRSSA, noting how events like the recent winter party gave her a wonderful opportunity to connect with her peers. “It was fun to dress up, enjoy hot cocoa and caramel popcorn, and talk about career goals with fellow members,” Andersen said. Looking ahead, she’s eager to participate in coffee chats organized by the Member Relations Committee, which aim to foster deeper relationships among members.

Sophomore Charlotte Madden shared how PRSSA helped her expand her professional network through experiences like a tour of Weber Shandwick, a top PR agency in Atlanta. “I connected with a Grady alum during the tour, and we still talk to this day,” Madden said. She also praised Scott Cuppari’s resume tips, which helped her refresh her resume using the S.T.A.R. method.

Brooke Wagner, a junior majoring in advertising, emphasized the value of meeting like-minded peers in PRSSA. “I’ve enjoyed getting to know everyone and discussing our shared interests in PR, advertising and marketing,” Wagner said. She was particularly inspired by guest speaker Dina Zolan during the Ad Club and PRSSA collaboration week. “Her presentation on a creative brand campaign was fascinating and resonated with my interest in living and working in New York,” Wagner shared.

Many members also credit PRSSA for equipping them with skills that have directly influenced their futures. Martin recently earned a spot in the Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity Study Abroad program, a success she attributes to the experiences and confidence gained through PRSSA. “I confidently believe that all the skills I brought to the interview were given to me by PRSSA this semester,” she said.

With Spring semester looming around the corner, members are excited to see what’s next. Martin teased a new initiative by the Member Relations Committee aimed at increasing connectivity within the organization. “Keep your eyes peeled for more information!” she said.

As the holiday break approaches, members will continue to eagerly anticipate the new opportunities and experiences the spring 2025 semester will bring.