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Public Relations Program

The Big Idea Group

The Big Idea Group is a student-run Public Relations agency here at URI. Students involved in the Big Idea Group are focused, energetic, professional, creative and motivated. The purpose of the agency is to create a learning opportunity for students to gain practical experience in strategic planning, event management and other facets of Public Relations.

What's going on with The Big Idea Group?

Participants in the Big Idea Group have an opportunity to practical, hands-on experience within the PR industry. In the Fall of 2011, students will have an opportunity to be part of the planning process for the Bill Chill Weekend to be held in February, 2012.  Students will earn 3 credits by registering for COM491.  In addition to earning 3 credits, students will gain an invaluable experience by planning a major scholarship event attended by community and business leaders.

Past Events:  "Get Career Connected

The symposium focused on career awareness for students. "Get Career Connected" proved to be a successful experience for students and the guest speakers.

 

A special thanks to our guest speakers:

Gary Serby

Gary Serby, Vice President of Corporate Communications at Hasbro, Inc., shared his expertise with students

Kathy O'Donnell, the Senior Vice President and Director of Public Affairs for the Citizens Financial Group, Inc., who shared her journey in public affairs, while also giving her advice on how students in entry level positions can work their way to the top.

Ashley Gingerella, Officer and Public Affairs Specialist at the Citizens Financial Group, Inc., spoke about the power of the informational interview.

Students are always asking, "What is the typical day for a professional in my field?" Gary Serby, Vice President of Corporate Communications at Hasbro, Inc., shared his experiences in the corporate arena and provided examples of a typical day in the life of a Public Relations Leader. Gary gave students a new perspective on what each day can bring as a professional in this field.

Mary Sadler

Sarah McMullen reviewed her resume with Mary Sadler, Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer of (add)ventures

Mary Sadler, Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer of (add)ventures, spoke about the importance of creative strategy given the social media revolution.

 

news & announcements

PR Students Explore Social Media in Higher Ed

Students enrolled in Strategic Media Communication (PRS442) analyzed the influence of social media among college students, and looked at how URI uses social media to attract and retain students. See their findings here


There are over

25 courses

to choose from in the
Public Relations Program!

Check out the full list


make connections!

The PR Summit Series

provides a unique opportunity for students to network and interact with leaders in the industry, as well as learn about internship opportunities. More

The Big Idea Group

offers professional development opportunities to help you prepare for a career in public relations. More

Connect Four

is a unique mentoring opportunity that connects prospective PR students with students already in the program. More

The PR Society at URI

is a student group that meets Wednesdays at 5pm in Memorial Union Room 318. Check out the PRS blog site.