Last year as a sophomore, I had the privilege of attending the 2008 Central Michigan Public Relations Society of America Pace Awards. I was sponsored by my chapter to attend and showed up early to help with set up. I did not receive any awards, or make any outstanding impressions, but I did quietly sit back and enjoy the atmosphere. As a sophomore, it was very overwhelming and I was not yet comfortable with approaching PR professionals.
This year, my junior year and also my last year being able to attend the Pace Awards as a student, my story is quite different. I am going to be graduating early in December of 2009 rather than expected May 2010. I didn’t try to graduate early, but credit wise it worked out that way and I don’t mind not paying another semester of tuition.
This year, I had the opportunity to meet some of the planning committee such as James Roney, Boys Scouts of America; Josh Hovey, Rossman Public Relations; Christina Jackson, Pace & Partners; and Melody Kindraka, Michigan State Police among others whom I have met in passing before. This time, I know names, faces, places of business and what they do. I also sat by Denise Donohue with the Michigan Apple Committee and realized what a small world it is and that I know some of her family members.
I didn’t receive an award, a fancy plaque, or any big recognition to make me stand out of the crowd but what I did receive is much more valuable. I began to build relationships, or better known in the PR field, I networked. I’ve been to CMPRSA breakfasts, awards ceremonies, and many meetings where I sat in the back and watched. Today I successfully made impressions.
I think that students hear a lot of talk about the need to network but very few actually have the initial courage to do so. It took me awhile to come around to networking and I wish I hadn’t waited so long. Students: put yourself in situations where you can network, and DO IT! I had a great time at the 2009 Pace Awards, met quite a few wonderful people and hope to attend next year as a graduated PR Professional!
Congratulations to all award winners this year and special congrats to PRSSA’s Professional Advisor, Kelly Rossman for Rossman Public Relations winning Best of Show!
Out of Curiosity 
I can’t stress enough how important networking is. I am graduating in just a few weeks and am seeing the importance of having built my network before I needed it. It is a never-ending process, and gets easier with time.
Good job for taking great steps toward building your network!
Way to go Angela, I’m glad you had a good experience. Now channel some of that courage me- networking with people I don’t know is one thing I am really awkward about. I’m still in your “sit back and let things happen” position.
Great post, and so true. That’s exactly how I felt last year, too. And again, thanks for helping out you did a wonderful job. You are an inspiring leader!