Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) at Oakland University

The Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) at Oakland University serves students and emerging professionals who are looking to build a career in public relations and communications. Based in Rochester, United States, this chapter connects university students with experienced PR practitioners across Metro Detroit, offering a bridge between academic learning and real-world industry practice. While the organization primarily supports its student members, its activities indirectly benefit local nonprofits, small businesses, and community groups that seek fresh perspectives and volunteer support from aspiring communicators.

How They Help

The Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) at Oakland University focuses on professional development and networking opportunities for its members. The chapter organizes events such as guest speaker sessions, agency tours, and workshops where students can learn directly from seasoned public relations professionals. These activities help members build portfolios, refine their writing and strategic thinking skills, and gain insights into the day-to-day operations of PR firms and in-house communications departments. For the broader community, the chapter often collaborates with local organizations on pro bono projects, offering students hands-on experience while supporting causes that align with their studies.

Services and Specialties

As a student-led organization, the PRSSA chapter at Oakland University does not offer commercial PR services like a traditional agency would. Instead, its core offerings center around education and experiential learning. Members typically develop competencies in the following areas through chapter activities and partnerships:

• Media relations and press release writing
• Social media management and content creation
• Crisis communication planning and simulations
• Event planning and promotion for campus and community events
• Strategic communication campaign development
• Professional networking and mentorship programs

These skills are cultivated through structured curriculum, guest lectures, and collaborative projects that mirror real agency workflows. The chapter also participates in national PRSSA conferences and competitions, allowing members to benchmark their work against peers from other universities.

Location and Community Impact

Operating from the Oakland University campus in Rochester, Michigan, United States, the chapter is deeply embedded in the Metro Detroit PR community. Rochester provides a suburban setting with proximity to Detroit’s major corporations, agencies, and media outlets, giving members access to a diverse range of professional opportunities. The chapter frequently partners with organizations such as the Detroit Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) and local firms to arrange internships and job shadowing experiences. This geographic advantage allows the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) at Oakland University to serve as a talent pipeline for the region’s communications industry.

Who This Is a Good Fit For

The Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) at Oakland University is best suited for undergraduate students at Oakland University who are interested in public relations, marketing, journalism, or corporate communications. It also appeals to local community organizations—such as charities, small businesses, and cultural institutions—that may benefit from student-led communication projects or volunteer support. For PR professionals in Metro Detroit, the chapter offers a way to give back by mentoring the next generation of communicators. Overall, this chapter provides a structured entry point into the PR field for students while strengthening the local talent ecosystem in Rochester and beyond.