Going to such a big school like James Madison University there are an infinite amount of ways to get involved both academically and socially. Especially as a Communications major with a concentration in Public Relations there is so much JMU has to offer. As a senior, I have been fully engulfed in the JMU culture for almost 4 years now so I have learned and seen how impactful JMU’s PR resources can be. Keep reading to hear about the amazing organizations that are perfect for getting involved as a PR major.
1. PRSSA
The first great organization to join is the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA). PRSSA members are able to be fully submerged in the public relations world while still being undergraduate students. They give their members opportunities to network, visit agencies, engage in leadership positions, receive scholarships/awards, and get to hear from fun guest speakers. But most importantly, this organization is important for any PR student to be involved in for future opportunities. Once a PRSSA member graduates they are now a Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) member which is super important for future employers to see!
2. Lambda Pi Eta
Another great way for a PR major to get involved while at JMU is to join Lambda Pi Eta. LPH is the official communication studies honor society which is 1 of 300 chapters worldwide. Although this organization is open to all Communications majors, it is still a great way to meet like-minded people who are interested in the same future career path as you. LPH also hosts lots of guest speakers so their members can get an inside look at the lives of those who work in the communication field.
3. Bluestone Communications
How could I not include Bluestone Communications? Without any bias, of course, this is my favorite PR-related organization at JMU. Bluestone Communications is a student-run PR firm that has the opportunity to work with real clients in the Harrisonburg/Rockingham County area. Bluestone consists of an executive team, account teams, and a creative team to ensure that all of our clients’ needs are met. This organization gives its members real-life, hands-on experience that future PR professionals will experience later on in life.
PRSSA, Lambda Pi Eta, and Bluestone Communications are three great organizations that as a PR major would be super beneficial for you to join while at JMU. These organizations will not only help you while still in school but especially once you graduate.