What is the CPRS and Why Public Relations Students Should Join

source: www.cprs-hamilton.ca

The Canadian Public Relations Society of Hamilton is a professional organization dedicated to professional development, promotion and recognition of public relations professions in Hamilton, Halton and surrounding areas. 

Ok, I admit that sounds a little on the dull side, but I am still making the argument that even the most financially challenged PR college student should consider joining.  

Why? 

One word:  networking.   

Don’t get me wrong, there are a long list of benefits to joining the CPRS, some of which I will detail in a few moments, however at the bottom line of all of it, we come right back to networking.  Why is networking so important?  Consider this:  LinkedIn found that 70% of people who were hired in 2016 were hired at an organization where they had a connection in their 2017survey.  Attending the variety of events hosted by the CPRS will give students the chance to meet and network with industry professionals who could, in a few short months, prove to be the connection that lands them their first industry job.

Digging a little deeper, building strong relationships is such an important part of public relations and learning how to build good relationships is a skill we can develop.  Networking, through attending meetings, conferences and training sessions gives a student or new graduate an opportunity to practice their relationship building skills, which can only help them in their future endeavors.

Beyond the networking opportunities, the CPRS also offers students the opportunity to apply to a competitive mentorship program, educational and technical seminars, case study sessions, career guidance materials, and access to writing the Public Relations Knowledge Exam upon graduation.

Student membership in the Hamilton chapter of CPRS is only $40 for a year, or students can enroll in both the Hamilton chapter and the national organization for $79 a year.  You can check out the Hamilton chapter at https://cprs-hamilton.ca/ and the national chapter at https://www.cprs.ca/.