PRSSA Club Helps Members Practice Communication Skills

Liberty University currently offers more than 150 student-led clubs. One student club, the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA), has created a laid-back environment that also fosters career growth.

PRSSA is a national association that aims to bridge the gap between the college experience and the workplace. The organization was established in 1967, and Liberty students began their own chapter in 2003 to provide students with skills and networking opportunities. Every other Thursday, students meet on the ninth floor of the Freedom Tower in a relaxed, friendly setting.

This club offers communication workshops and covers various topics in its meetings to help members prepare for their future. Designed for any major or course of study, PRSSA is perfect for students who want to practice their communication skills but might not be as comfortable in large gatherings. 

Mia Brownell, PRSSA president, emphasized how ministry and communication are great tools for evangelism and spreading the gospel.

“We’re all ambassadors for Christ. … We’re reflecting Jesus Christ,” Brownell said. “Knowing how to present yourself and maintain that reputation for the sake of the Kingdom is huge.”

PRSSA has hosted guest speakers, résumé workshops and conferences that have helped students learn how to represent themselves when working for organizations. These included a fundraising event in the Freedom Tower Oct. 3. The club hosted Kristin Boyce, assistant professor and director for the Center of Entrepreneurship at Liberty, to talk about leadership, fundraising and public relations. 

The club welcomes students of all majors and class levels, which helps younger students learn from peers and gain knowledge from upperclassmen. Many of the club’s past projects focused on storytelling, marketing through nonprofits or using skills such as photography or writing for CSER credit to boost résumés and portfolios. 

Brownell talked about how joining this club has helped her become more confident when connecting with other students and talking to people older than she is. She also emphasized the wide variety of needs for public relations in entertainment, fundraising and sports. 

Precision and articulation are very important according to Brownell, as she said official statements are carefully worded, especially when dealing with a crisis. 

“You want to make sure that you are really using the correct words and editing that thoroughly so that you’re connecting to the audience,” Brownell said.

Brownell encouraged students to take advantage of the PRSSA club to meet other students, connect on LinkedIn and learn the skills taught by the club.

Club member Morgan Sowell said that every company needs people who possess strong communication skills. 

“Do whatever you can to be around things that relate to communication. … Anything can lead to anything,” Sowell said.   

PRSSA student graduate assistant Abigail Schroeder pointed out how the club helps members learn how to better market themselves in a professional environment. 

“Know who you are and your own story because through that, you will be able to tell other people’s stories, and by learning to market yourself, you’ll learn how to market other people. … Come out and give it a try,” Schroeder said.

Loranger is a lifestyle reporter for the Liberty Champion.