The Public Relations Society of America (PRSSA) chapter at Ohio State joined chapters from other universities for the PRSSA National Conference in the city known as the “Crossroads of America,” Indianapolis.

Seven students and two faculty advisers attended the conference from Oct. 21 to Oct. 25. The conference was a great opportunity for members to network and learn more about the field of public relations.

With events such as career tours, resume critiques, a career development exhibition and a wide variety of speakers from different public relations sectors, attendees had plenty of opportunities to learn about the field and develop professional skills.

Among a number of speakers at the conference was Andrea Farmer, APR, the associate director of strategic initiatives for NCAA. Farmer spoke about working in collegiate sports public relations. Strategic communication student, Kelsey Pohlman had the opportunity to speak with Farmer and ask her questions about their campaigns and her career.

"I really enjoyed hearing Andrea talk about her successful public relations career,” Pohlman said. “As someone who is currently job hunting, her words on being open and humble during the job search really struck a chord with me."

While students enjoyed attending the organized events at the conference, many said that the best element of the conference was the opportunity to network with other students and professionals.

"The connections I made at the conference were 120 percent worth the trip,” Pohlman recounted. “Networking with people from Indiana, Illinois and even California really helped me gain perspective and broaden my perspectives when it comes to what PR is."

Article written by student Erin Burnett