Ferris State PRSSA

Ferris State PRSSA, based in Big Rapids, Michigan, United States, is the student-led chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America at Ferris State University. Operating out of the College of Business, the organization focuses on providing practical public relations and communications experience for its members. With a strong emphasis on collaboration, networking, and professional development, Ferris State PRSSA serves as a training ground for aspiring PR professionals while also offering real-world services through its student-run firm, Rapid PR.

Specialist Expertise in Public Relations and Communications Education

Ferris State PRSSA is uniquely positioned as one of only two PR programs in the country housed within a College of Business. This business-oriented foundation gives its members a distinct advantage, blending communications strategy with an understanding of corporate operations, marketing, and organizational goals. The chapter is also one of two certified public relations programs in Michigan, reflecting a commitment to academic rigor and industry standards. In Big Rapids, the organization serves as a hub for students and local professionals to connect, offering a space where theoretical knowledge meets hands-on application. The chapter's Thursday meetings in IRC 107 welcome all majors, fostering a diverse environment where future communicators can develop skills that are directly applicable to the public relations and communications services industry.

How Ferris State PRSSA Applies Its Expertise

The organization applies its expertise through a combination of structured learning and real-world projects. Members participate in professional development sessions led by alumni and industry professionals, who volunteer their time to mentor students. Additionally, Ferris State PRSSA operates Rapid PR, a student-run firm that provides communications services to clients. This firm allows members to handle tasks such as social media management, event planning, and networking initiatives, giving them portfolio-worthy experience before graduation. The chapter's emphasis on collaboration means that members work together to solve communications challenges, often for local businesses or nonprofit organizations in the Big Rapids area. By integrating classroom theory with client work, Ferris State PRSSA ensures its members are prepared for careers in public relations and communications, as well as adjacent fields like consumer internet, information technology, and events services.

Services Offered by Ferris State PRSSA

While the organization primarily focuses on member development, its student-run firm, Rapid PR, offers a range of services to external clients. These services are designed to meet the needs of local businesses, nonprofits, and campus organizations. Based on the chapter's focus areas and industry keywords, likely services include:

• Social media management and content creation
• Event planning and coordination
• Networking event facilitation
• Communications strategy development
• Media relations and press release writing
• Brand messaging and audience engagement
• Public relations campaign support

These services are delivered by students under the guidance of faculty advisor Sandy Gholston, ensuring quality and professionalism. The chapter's connection to the College of Business also means that clients benefit from a data-driven approach to communications, rooted in business principles.

Who Ferris State PRSSA Works With

Ferris State PRSSA is an excellent fit for local businesses, nonprofits, and campus organizations in the Big Rapids and greater Michigan area that need affordable, high-quality communications support. The organization is particularly suited for clients in the consumer internet, information technology, and events services sectors, as these align with the chapter's focus on digital communications and event planning. Alumni and PR professionals looking to give back can also engage with Ferris State PRSSA by volunteering for professional development sessions, which help shape the next generation of communicators. For any organization seeking a fresh perspective on public relations and communications, or for students wanting to gain hands-on experience, Ferris State PRSSA offers a collaborative and professional environment in the United States that bridges academic learning with real-world application.