Going Abroad…
Posted by: Lauren Patterson on: December 8, 2008
Second semester has ended…exam week is quickly passing by, and soon, I will be going abroad. I have been looking forward to starting a new adventure and experiencing new things. However, since the time has finally come, I feel that I am not exactly ready to leave! I still have to say bye to a lot of people and prepare for certain things, such as getting a Web cam for my computer. Although, I am very excited, I know that time will not stop when I leave.
I am curious about what the culture will be like there. I’ve been warned of pickpocketing and that the style of clothes is different…but will I feel completely out of place?
Don’t get me wrong, I’m very excited. The transition is just bittersweet! So, I guess I will have to be prepared, whether I’m ready or not! Barcelona…here I come!
ps- I can still twitter 
PRSSA meeting with Brett Turner
Posted by: Lauren Patterson on: November 20, 2008
Brett Turner, PR Director for Jackson-Dawson Marketing Solutions, was the guest speaker for the Clemson PRSSA meeting on PR Portfolios. Brett discussed how to prepare a resume and portfolio for internship and job interviews. He discussed that writing is of #1 importance in public relations. Yes, being a “people person” is equally important, but what job doesn’t need people with good communication skills?
Most important things to note when putting together your resume/portfolio: have a cover letter, write well (no misspellings), understand the audience you’re talking to, do your research, be assertive, have references readily available, don’t fluff up your resume!)
When going for an interview, it is important to dress appropriately and understand what the company stand for. Doing research beforehand and appearing very interested is key! And, don’t forget to write a handwritten thank-you note following up the interview, and of course, call back! Be assertive, but not annoying!
PR Example #4
Posted by: Lauren Patterson on: November 20, 2008
This week on campus, November 17-21, Alpha Phi Omega, the National Service Fraternity, is hosting the 24th annual Clemson vs. USC Blood Drive. USC and Clemson have a yearly competition before the Thanksgiving football game to save lives by donating blood. There are multiple places around campus where you can give blood, and they offer numerous expenses, such as competing against USC, getting a free t-shirt, snacks, and door prizes.
I think this is an example of good PR for the service fraternity and Clemson University. They are raising awareness on campus to donate blood through fliers, the Internet, etc.
PR Example #3
Posted by: Lauren Patterson on: November 18, 2008
In my public relations class, I gave a public relations example promoting both the motion picture and the saga, “Twilight.” The first book of the saga, “Twilight,” was published in 2005. Since the beginning of “Twilight,” Stephenie Meyer has had so much popularity from her fans. Also, the motion picture comes out Friday, November 21 at midnight, which has also promoted a lot of publicity.
Besides fans who promote the saga, the media are also playing an active role. Entertainment Weekly featuerd Robert Pattinson, who plays Edward Cullen, as a top breakout star in 2008. This article is good PR for “Twilight” because it features a main character in a positive light.
PR Example #2
Posted by: Lauren Patterson on: November 6, 2008
Clemson University’s Panhellenic has created an extension program to bring a new sorority to campus. The extension program is composed of the Panhellenic advisers, Panhellenic executive board, and a member from each current sorority. Throughout this process, three sororities will be considered. In order to decide which one will begin a new chapter at Clemson, each sorority will put on a presentation open to the public for all to view. Last night, November 5th, Sigma Kappa gave their presentation. Sigma Kappa brought Sigma Kappa nationals staff, alumnae, and current chapter members from the University of Georgia. They gave a presentation discussing Sigma Kappa’s goals and values. It was good PR because it showed Sigma Kappa in a positive light, despite if they are picked for Clemson’s campus or not. Also, Sigma Kappa did their research, because they showed why they would benefit not only their sorority, in a national aspect, but also, they discussed why they would benefit Clemson’s campus. They did their research!
How to get an A+ in blogging…
Posted by: Lauren Patterson on: October 27, 2008
After looking at numerous blogs and exploring the world of blogging, I learned some tips…
-Comment on others’ blogs and get a feel for the blogging world before starting your own blog
-Personalize your page: make the graphics stand out, leave your contact information, take time to make your about me page interesting
-Be unique…add humor, stand out!
-Be insightful, have good, authentic posts and responses
-Respect others who are blogging
-When leaving posts, be to the point, but also, be eye-catching
-Know your target audience
-Try to keep your blog updated and respond frequently
-Engage your community
-Promote your blog professionally and efficiently
PR Example #1
Posted by: Lauren Patterson on: October 19, 2008
ProActive commercial with Jessica Simpson–good PR or bad PR?
Jessica Simpson is a great choice for a company to use as an endorser. She is beautiful, girls aspire to be like her, and she is well known. However, on the other hand, ProActive did not do enough research and did not apply the RPIE method when they chose her as a spokesperson for their company. Jessica Simpson has previously admitted to using a different acne treatment other than ProActive. Therefore, this is bad PR, because Jessica Simpson clearly admits to using a different acne treatment than the one she was supposed to be endorsing.
