PRSSA students tour six of Atlanta public relations agencies
On January 29 and 30, 2015, 16 PRSSA students were given the opportunity to tour six Atlanta public relations agencies, gaining insight into the agency life at all levels. MSLGroup, William Mills Agency, Ignition, Nebo, Porter Novelli and Ogilvy were the hosting agencies for this two-day event.
Students were able to receive career advice from a variety of PR professionals, interacting with CEOs, senior vice presidents, account executives and graduates of Grady College who were students themselves only a short time ago.
At each agency, students were given an inside look at the company’s culture and advice for how to stand out when applying for internships and entry-level positions. Students were encouraged to become better storytellers, to be flexible, to keep in touch with contacts and to recognize the importance of networking.
“It was a great experience that offered a glimpse into the life of various, very different agencies.” senior public relations major Alex Carruth noted. “I’ve heard it many times, but it really is true that PR is a culture-based communications field with phenomenal outcomes.”
Nebo and Porter Novelli encouraged students to show off their skills acquired at Grady College. Students broke out into teams at Nebo and pitched Super Bowl campaign ideas for one of the agency’s clients, Immortalia. Current Nebo employees, including CEO and Co-Founder Brian Easter, judged student’s presentations and offered constructive feedback.
At Porter Novelli, teams of students pitched campaign ideas for two fictional clients, a healthy drink alternative and a new 3D gaming console. This allowed the students to gain a deep understanding of the daily duties faced by current practitioners today.
Each agency stressed the value they place on its interns. Their internship programs are immersive, hands-on experiences that will genuinely enhance careers.
UGA’s PRSSA thanks MSLGroup, William Mills Agency, Ignition, Nebo, Porter Novelli and Ogilvy for opening their doors to its students and giving them the chance to learn from such esteemed professionals.
Date: February 3, 2015Author: Beatriz Lima-Silva
Contact: Michael Bragg, mbragg@uga.edu