About USC PRSSA

Members of PRSSA expand their knowledge of – and foothold in – the industry beyond the classroom and into the professional world...all before they graduate!

PRSSA is a national organization with over 7,000 members. PRSSA is affiliated with PRSA (Public Relations Society of America), a distinguished society of over 20,000 public relations professionals nationwide. After graduation, students with PRSSA involvement on their resumes are one step ahead of the game.

The USC chapter of PRSSA was founded in April of 1968, one of the nine original chapters to be formed. Since then, USC PRSSA has continued setting the standard for excellence. In 2001, the chapter was awarded the national Teahan Award for the best PRSSA regional activity after hosting Tinseltown PR, a one day event focused on entertainment public relations with a featured appearance by celebrity Tom Arnold.

USC PRSSA also recently distinguished itself by having two past presidents named “PR Student of the Year,” a national award sponsored by PRWeek Magazine.

Professional Panels
Throughout the semester, USC PRSSA hosts panels with public relations professionals from a variety of industries, including entertainment, corporate, non-profit, and sports. The panels are geared towards helping our members understand different aspects of PR and introducing them to people who can help them succeed in jobs and internships by providing guidance and useful networks.

Workshops
USC PRSSA hosts workshops to help students develop professional skills that will allow them to succeed in the public relations industry. In the past, USC PRSSA workshops have focused on interviewing, developing a portfolio, choosing an internship, and media pitching, among others.

Internships
Internships are a key to getting your foot in the door and learning about PR firsthand. USC PRSSA provides its members with information on available internships, and helps them network with companies in search of interns. Members are also exposed to a variety of potential internships and future employers through its panel events.

Social Mixers/Field Trips
Come have some fun with PRSSA! USC PRSSA hosts mixers for students, and mixers with local public relations professionals. Students have the opportunity to travel to the annual PRSSA National Conference (held this year in Miami!) to meet professionals and PR students from across the nation. PRSSA also organizes field trips to local PR conferences, PR agency tours, and local arts & entertainment events.

Copyright © 2005 PRSSA Chapter at USC