Testimonials
Rock PRSSA laid a solid foundation for my professional career. The real-world experience I gained from working with clients through the organization was imperative for my journey in the comms field. One valuable skill I was able to refine through Rock PRSSA was project management. Through leading teams as an Account Executive, I learned how to manage a team and capitalize on each team members’ skills. Additionally, I learned to manage client expectations and adhere to a timeline. My favorite memory during my time in Rock PRSSA was the SRU Dress for Success Fashion Show. This was the first client that I ever had, and it seeing the event play out was extremely rewarding.
Jensen Troy, Account Coordinator for Mindful Creative
- Rock PRSSA was an integral part of my development as a marketing and communication professional. Through this organization, I was able to travel, work with outstanding clients, and improve my leadership skills. In my current role, I do all of these things on a frequent basis, so it was incredibly helpful to have these experiences in Rock PRSSA. One of the most important things I learned in Rock PRSSA was how to properly communicate with clients in both a professional and more lighthearted manner. I also got a better grasp of multitasking projects with multiple clients and learned how to hit all of their expectations in a timely manner. My favorite memory as a member of Rock PRSSA was traveling to Austin, Texas, as a representative of the organization at the PRSSA National Conference. I was able to meet young professionals across the country and grow my network within the industry.
- Ben Renaudin, Senior Account Manager at TrueSense Marketing
My time in the communication department at Slippery Rock University set me up on a path that helped jumpstart my career. I learned everything from strategic writing to communication law – to design and how to effectively plan and execute a PR campaign. Being a part of PRSSA and the department newsletter team, I connected with so many classmates, professors, and professionals in the PR field, and I eventually went on to become a member of the PRSA Pittsburgh board for many years. When I was in school, there was no Canva or social media! But the skills I put into place then set me up to succeed throughout my career. Whether that was landing media placements for clients (I’ve gotten to work with news outlets like NBC News), launching on a new social media platform (TikTok wasn’t even a thought when I started!), or executing an influencer campaign (including impactful public health initiatives), I have Slippery Rock University to thank for equipping me with the tools I needed to get started. The things I learned were truly invaluable, and I am so glad to still be connected with the department today through its advisory board.
Deanna Tomaselli, Vice President of Client Services at The Motherhood
Through innovative, real-world coursework that challenged me to broaden my perspective, SRU was a key contributor to my career and continued passion for communications. The opportunity to travel to Scandinavia to learn about progressive communication methods, working with actual clients through courses like Campaigns, Persuasion and Social Media, and developing an understanding of research and data analysis have greatly impacted my expertise in my current role. I feel extremely fortunate to have learned from professors who were in the field and could speak to real life scenarios. During my time at SRU, I learned the value of growing my skills outside of a traditional classroom setting and had the opportunity to travel to New York and Texas for communication conferences. Two of my fondest memories will always be 1.) Meeting my now husband in a Mass Media and Society class and 2.) My involvement as president of Lambda Pi Eta which taught me that being a leader isn't about your ability to be followed or remembered but your willingness and desire to serve, guide and improve your community to ensure a better tomorrow for those who come after you.
Deana Callipare, Director of Communications at the Environmental Charter School
