Meet this week’s campus celebrity, Alyssa Stafford!
Originally hailing from Naugatuck, Connecticut, she came to UGA after completing her undergrad at Agnes Scott College in Decatur, Georgia.
In addition to being a 2nd year grad student, hoping to receive a Master’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication with a concentration in Health Media and Communication, Alyssa is currently president of UGA’s very own chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA).
“As a grad student, this is my second shot at college, and probably my last. I wanted to make the most of it and get involved on campus as much as possible,” she says. “I came in as a PR concentration, so PRSSA was the obvious place for me to start.”
Alyssa’s involvement with PRSSA has definitely had a positive impact on her experience as a young professional, as it has put her directly in touch with professionals in Atlanta and beyond.
“Last year, I attended PR Real World, a one day conference in Atlanta. I met a woman who hired me for the best freelance PR contract I’ve ever had,” she explained. “I help Piedmont Healthcare with writing, media reporting and social media. I never would have met her if I didn’t attend the conference.”
As PRSSA president, Alyssa says that her goal for the organization in the year ahead revolves mostly around chapter development.
“We have the largest chapter in the world with over 250 members. It’s a challenge to get to know everyone, but it is so important,” she says. “We are each other’s most important network.”
She also encourages any students who are curious about the PR industry to join to PRSSA.
“I tell students that if they aren’t sure about PR, they will find out when they get involved with PRSSA. If you already know you want to be in PR (or communications, marketing, advertising, etc.), PRSSA can help you find a niche.”
After graduating in Spring 2015, Alyssa hopes to work with healthcare industry clients such as hospitals, health tech companies and public health initiatives.
“I’d like to make our world a healthier, happier place through effective communication.”