Loyalist PR internships are underway!

Congratulations to all our hard-working Loyalist PR interns (like Pascalle, above, at the Brighton & District Chamber of Commerce) who are currently on internship (or finishing up) this month.

Way to go, everyone!

2013 PRISM Awards

Last week, the Post-Graduate Public Relations Program held its 8th annual PRISM Awards luncheon at Occasions By the Bay.

The event was a celebration of student success, and a chance to see each other one more time before everyone heads off on internship.

Congratulations to this year's PRISM Award winners:

2013 PRISM Service Award
Winer - Jami Pollard
Honourable Mention - Danielle Bruni

2013 PRISM Leadership Award
Winner - Ryan Dickison
Honourable Mention - Hannah Brown

2013 PRISM Innovation Award
Winner - Hannah Brown
Honourable Mention - Alexander Pilon 

2013 PRISM Spirit Award
Winner - Alexander Pilon
Honourable Mention - Maggie Doucette 

2013 PRISM New Media Award 
Winner - Justin Reis
Honourable Mention - Abhijit Khalon  

2013 PRISM Professionalism Award
Winner - Ryan Dickison
Honourable Mention - Diane McGall

2013 PRISM Teamwork Award
Winner - Diane McGall
Honourable Mention - Shonna Spicer

Kay Staib Memorial Scholarship
Diane McGall and Shonna Spicer

2013 PRISM Mentorship Award
Pam Sylvan of Pamela Sylvan PR

Class Valedictorian - Ryan Dickison

Our international students rock!

.                                                                              ~ Photo by Alycia Winter

In the Post-Graduate Public Relations Program here at Loyalist College, we welcome international students (like Abhijit Kahlon of India, a current Loyalist PR student seen in the photo above).

We believe international students bring a fresh perspective and approach to our learning environment.

If you're an international student who's interested in studying public relations at Loyalist, please contact Jodie Russett at jrussett@loyalistc.on.ca.

Another upcoming Loyalist PR event:

Yeeboo Digital touches down at Loyalist

Post-Graduate Public Relations students enjoyed a lively presentation by Erik Rubadeau and Shannon Pitt of Yeeboo Digital yesterday afternoon.

In keeping with our "Business of PR" theme this week, Erik and Shannon presented to Loyalist PR students about what it takes to start a new communications business from the ground up, how to build key contacts, as well as the "nuts and bolts" of brand building.

Here's just some of the great advice we heard from our Yeeboo Digital presenters:"Try hard, fail fast and then move one." And not to be forgotten, "Learn, certify, show up and repeat."

Thanks for a memorable afternoon, Erik and Shannon! We thoroughly enjoyed the visit.

Indie PR consultant visits Loyalist PR

A big thanks to Pam Sylvan (Belleville's "Downtown Gal") of Pamela Sylvan PR for stopping by our Post-Graduate Public Relations class yesterday to chat with students about owning and operating their own PR consultancy.

 

Pam's straightforward advice and wise counsel (for career and life alike) was much appreciated by our students.

 

Hearing from a seasoned professional who has spent her career in the field (ranging from politics to non-profit work), the experience was eye-opening and engaging for us all.

 

Thanks for taking the time to spend with us, Pam! We truly appreciate your insights.

Upcoming Loyalist PR event!

Slam poet visits Loyalist PR

A huge shout-out to Greg Frankson (aka Ritallin) who offered up an amazing slam poetry performance and workshop recently for our Post-Graduate Public Relations students here at Loyalist.

The purpose of the workshop was to jumpstart our writing as we start off a new year -- and Greg certainly accomplished just that!

Thanks for challenging us and motivating us creatively, Greg --- it was great to have you back on campus (as always!).

Thought of the day:

We've hit the ground running in 2013!

We're already into the second week of the semester, and Post-Grad Public Relations students at Loyalist College have hit the ground running!

 

Between client projects, team events, magazine features and internships, there's never a dull moment.

 

Hang on, everyone - it's going to be a wild (and great) ride!

Merry Christmas to all...

... and to all a happy holiday!

From the Loyalist PR crew to the rest of you -- have a wonderful vacation, everyone!

P.S. That's our very own student Alex Pilon dressed as Santa (sssshhh, don't tell the kiddies)!

Photo by Linda Horn

Loyalist PR students partner with community

Loyalist PR students were on hand yesterday for the presentation of a cheque for $23,568 to the United Way of Quinte.

Back in October, the Post-Graduate Public Relations students raised more than $14,000 for the United Way through their Campus Truckload Sale.

What a great opportunity to give to such a worthy community cause!

Way to go, everyone.

Alumni panel offers advice to Class of 2013

Yesterday afternoon, Loyalist PR students welcomed back 11 graduates of the Post-Graduate Public Relations Program.

In a lively discussion on everything from rural vs. big city living to internships and networking, this year's panel generously shared their time, insights and experiences.

Big thanks to this year's Loyalist PR alumni panel participants: Logan Morrison (Marketing Communications Coordinator for Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve), Luc Fournier (Membership Coordinator, Belleville Chamber of Commerce), Sean Ashbridge (Account Coordinator, Immersion Media - Toronto), Alex Sancton (Internal Communications Manager, World Vision - Mississauga), Bryna Jones (Communications Manager, Save the Children - Toronto), Kasey Pollard (Destination Development Coordinator, Hastings County), Sara Hamil (Social Media Manager, Quinte Pediatrics), Devon Taylor (Communications Intern, Sick Kids Foundation - Toronto), Adrienne Barrie (Development Officer, Northumberland Hills Hospital - Cobourg), Gloria Fletcher (Project Coordinator, Comfort Country) and Colleen Vickers (Special Events Coordinator, City of Quinte West).

It was wonderful to see you all again - thanks once more for participating in this year's alumni panel!

Meet downtown's new promotor

The following article about Loyalist PR grad Sarah Tummon (2007/08) appeared in The Intelligencer (by Jerome Lessard) on November 14, 2012:

Former special events coordinator for the city of Quinte West, Sarah Tummon, has moved home.

Belleville Downtown Improvement Area (BDIA) hired the Belleville resident as its executive director, a new position within the organization that aims to provide business promotion and improvement functions for business owners in downtown Belleville.

The BDIA has as its mandate to improve, beautify and maintain public lands and buildings within the city's downtown area and promote the area as a business and shopping area.

Since reporting Monday, Tummon is responsible for overall management and operations of the organization and directly reports to BDIA's chairman Edie Haslauer.

Thanks to her two years as special events coordinator at the city of Quinte West, Tummon brings with her extensive experience in event management, public and media relations as well as marketing.

"The position I had with the city of Quinte West fell under the umbrella of economic development and brought me to coordinate events in the downtown and other development projects for the downtown in Trenton," she said.

"I am thrilled to join the BDIA and be working on many exciting initiatives that are underway. As a Belleville resident, I am honoured to be part of the ongoing revitalization of downtown Belleville."

In addition to hiring Tummon as executive director this week, the BDIA welcomed coordinator Kathryn Di Donato back, following a year maternity leave.

"I am looking forward to working with Sarah and am excited about what the future holds for the BDIA," said Di Donato.

Among her first assignments, Tummon will oversee the BDIA's annual general meeting at Belleville Club this Thursday at 5:30 p.m. She said a review of annual reports and filing positions that are current vacant on BDIA's board of director will be on the menu of this year's meeting.

"Also, Crowe Productions Inc. will be launching the new Virtual Downtown Walk Through on our web site (www.rediscoverdowntown.ca). We encourage our BDIA members and members of the public to attend Thursday's meeting," said Tummon.

Loyalist PR students at Kingston event

Wuan Yoon of beanstalk & co. teaches Loyalist PR students (and other conference attendees) about leadership.

Many thanks to the organizers of this year's National Philanthropy Day which took place last Thursday, November 15th in downtown Kingston.

At the invitation of the location chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), students of the Post-Graduate Public Relations program took part in excellent learning sessions alongside fundraising executives, and volunteered their time in a wide range of capacities.

It was also great to see some of our past graduates at the event, in their new, professional roles.

Well done, everyone!

Grad Profile: Sean Ashbridge (2011/12)

Today's Loyalist PR graduate profile features Sean Ashbridge (2011/12) who is now employed as Account Coordinator at Immersion Media in Toronto.

Prior to enrolling in the Post-Graduate Public Relations Program at Loyalist College, Sean completed a degree in Geography (minor in Political Science) from the University of Guelph.

Loyalist PR: What made you decide to enroll in the Post-Graduate Public Relations Program at Loyalist?

Sean Ashbridge: I decided to enroll in Loyalist PR because I saw the course calendar sitting on my bed. After leaving another post-grad program I didn't enjoy because I was sitting in front of a computer for hours on end, I wanted something else.

Knowing that a liberal arts degree wasn't enough for today's workforce, I decided to go to the open house, and could really see myself enjoying the many diverse jobs that grads of the program had.

Loyalist PR: Can you tell us about your duties in your current position with Immersion Media?

Sean: My current duties include a bit of everything, from researching element costs for a client estimate to planning and executing events throughout Canada, and doing the payroll for reps working events for our company.

Loyalist PR: How did the Post-Graduate Public Relations Program help prepare you for your current position?

Sean: Starting this position, I felt fully prepared because of the client projects we worked on in class. During the client projects, I learned to deal with clients in terms of speaking with them professionally, and managing their expectations which heps me on a daily basis, as my whole job is client projects and events.

Loyalist PR: What was the highlight of your year in Loyalist PR?

Sean: For me, the highlight of the year was sitting down and having a beer with many people in the class. I know that doesn't sound like much, but it's the simple things I look back on with the most fondness.

Loyalist PR: Any words of advice for current or future Loyalist PR students?

Sean: This job is not all about what you know, and what you can do; you have to have the right personality. You need to be able to be flexible, because things can and will change. You need to be able to laugh (at times at wildly inappropriate things) and realize that if you're going to spend 40-50 hours/week working, you might as well have fun with the people you are working with.

Loyalist PR: Thanks for the insights, Sean! And all the best in your career with Immersion Media.

Loyalist PR students enjoy a morning with

Thanks to Mitchell Praw for stopping by yesterday to talk to Loyalist PR students about Infomart, a media intelligence company based in Toronto whose goal is to "inform brand strategies to help drive awesome results."

Mitch provided a great presentation to students on everything from media measurement to research and analysis.

Thanks for the visit, Mitch!

Grad Profile: Jerika Bradford (2011/12)

Today's Loyalist PR Grad Profile features Jerika Bradford (Loyalist PR 2011/12) who is now employed as the Public Relations Officer at Canadian Wildlife Federation (CWF).

 

Prior to enrolling in the Post-Graduate Public Relations Program at Loyalist College, Jerika completed a diploma in Advertising at Loyalist.

 

Loyalist PR: What made you decide to enroll in the Post-Grad PR Program at Loyalist?

Jerika Bradford: I knew I wanted to enrol in Loyalist PR the moment I graduated from Advertising. To me, public relations and advertising complement each other perfectly, and would give me a better chance at getting a job. And it did!

Loyalist PR: How did Loyalist PR help prepare you for your current position?

Jerika: I always knew I wanted to work for a wildlife conservation organization, and since most of these types of organizations are non-profit, Loyalist PR gave me the essential skills to use in a non-profit setting. With the hands-on projects, reports, organizing fundraising events, etc., the program was exactly what I needed to set me apart when I went on internship.

Loyalist PR: What are some of your current duties as a Public Relations Office at the Canadian Wildlife Federation?

Jerika: Among my duties at CWF is organizing, planning and coordinating CWF's 2013 Walk for Wildlife (W4W) event. This involves communicating and planning with sponsors, media, hiking groups, provincial parks, etc. throughout Canada. I am also creating content for the W4W web site, and building W4W on-line presence using social media.

Loyalist PR: Sounds cool! Can you share any highlights of your year in the Post-Grad PR Program at Loyalist?

Jerika: I really enjoyed volunteering in all the fundraising projects that took place throughout the year; it's amazing what everyone was able to pull off!

Loyalist PR: Any words of advice for current or future Loyalist PR students?

Jerika: Give 110% during your internship, even if it turns out you're not exactly doing anything glamorous. This is easier said than done, but it could be something as simple as being stuck researching -- if they ask you for five media contacts, give them 10! Always go above and beyond expectations, because someone is always noticing. And they will remember you!

Loyalist PR crew helps host Open House

Bravo to the Loyalist PR students (also known as the "Green Shirts") who helped host the Loyalist College Open House today!

As a hurricane of high school students descended on campus, Loyalist PR was there to meet, greet, guide and act as brand ambassadors for the college, both indoors and out (see photo below).

Thanks to everyone for their hard work, and for making a positive first impression on future Loyalist students!

Grad Profile: Rachel Pearsall (2011/12)

Today's Loyalist PR graduate profile features Rachel Pearsall (2011/12) who is now employed as the paid Public Relations Intern for Project Sunshine Canada.

Prior to enrolling the Post-Graduate Public Relations Program at Loyalist College, Rachel completed a Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of Ottawa.

Loyalist PR: What made you decide to enroll in Loyalist PR?

Rachel Pearsall: It was my third year of university and I realized that I didn't actually want to pursue anything in the history field. I was becoming really discouraged with the limitations of just a degree. I researched post-grad degrees and diplomas, and found the Loyalist Public Relations Program. I liked that it would complement my degree, centred around practical experiences and was in my hometown.

Loyalist PR: How did the Post-Graduate Public Relations Program help prepare you for your current position?

Rachel: My first day on the job, I wasn't nervous at all. I knew I had all the skills I needed to be successful. The two events where I was a leader, as well as my two internships, were great in helping me prepare for this job. The practical experience and knowledge I've gained from this program are invaluable.

Loyalist PR: What do some of your current duties include?

Rachel: Project Sunshine Canada is a hospital charity that runs children's programming in eight hospitals in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and Montreal. Every week, I work with volunteers to ensure they have everything they need to run the programming. But currently, I'm focusing on the two major fundraising events for Project Sunshine. Recently, I helped run the 2nd Annual Shine On! fundraiser, and in November I will help run the Sunshine Ball.

Preparing for these two events and running the day-of activities is a lot of work, but very exhilarating. Dealing with vendors, ticket sales, the venue, decor, seating plans as well as set-up and take-down is all a part of events planning.

Loyalist PR: Can you share with us some of the highlights of your year in Loyalist PR?

Rachel: The people and friendships made the year that much more enjoyable. Going out into the workforce and living in different cities, it's nice that I have friends to call in many of them. Another aspect would be fundraising for the Humane Society [during my time with Loyalist]. So much work was put into the event by my team, and to have it be so successful was really gratifying.

Loyalist PR: Finally, any words of wisdom for current or future Loyalist PR students?

Rachel: Take every opportunity that comes your way, and try to be open to all aspects of PR, like events, fundraising, etc. Just enjoy the year and know that the right opportunity will come your way!

Guest speaker from Meltwater Group

Big thanks to Steve Harrington, Senior Account Manager, Client Relations who dropped by yesterday to speak to Post-Grad Public Relations students here at Loyalist about Meltwater Group.

Besides introducing us to Meltwater News, Meltwater Press and Meltwater Buzz, Steve answered a wide range of questions about media monitoring, media list creation and media relations in general.

Thanks for stopping by, Steve!

Loyalist PR spends the day in Toronto...

Loyalist PR students enjoyed a fun-filled day in Toronto yesterday, visiting Steam Whistle Brewing, Hill & Knowlton Strategies Canada and the Strombo Show at CBC Studios (see photo above).

Among the great themes we learned about were branding, corporate social responsibility and what it's like to work in a high-profile PR agency.

Great trip, everyone!

Campus truckload sale is back!

We're excited to announce that the 3rd annual United Way Campus Truckload Sale is set to take place on Thursday, October 18th from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. in the cafeteria at Loyalist College.

Once again, shoppers can take advantage of the low, low prices offered by Procter & Gamble on everything from hygiene items to household cleaning products.

The MAJOR DIFFERENCE this year is that all items must be PRE-ORDERED.

Post-Grad Public Relations students will be circulating order forms to members of the college community over the next couple of weeks.

Once you receive your order form, please complete and return to Room 1N1 (classroom) or Room 1N2 (office) during regular business hours. If we are not in, please slide your order form under the door. Due date for receipt of order forms is noon on October 16th.

Orders may be picked up on October 18th from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. in the cafeteria. 

Student ID cards (and photo ID for staff and faculty) must be shown when picking up product this year (requirement of Procter & Gamble).

Please note this is a CASH ONLY sale.

All proceeds will be donated to the United Way of Quinte.

If you have any questions, please email kramsay@loyalistc.on.ca.

Thank you!

Loyalist PR welcomes Stephen Paul

Loyalist PR students had the pleasure of welcoming Stephen Paul, Manager of Economic Development for the County of Lennox & Addington in class this afternoon.

Besides being a powerful, creative force behind some of L&A's recent marketing initiatives, Stephen is also known as the "Moose Guy" who helped build the now-famous Toronto "Moose" campaign in the early 2000s.

Students enjoyed the opportunity to learn from and interact with Stephen this afternoon, as he spoke about event marketing, city branding and leveraging media partnerships.

Thanks for stopping by, Stephen. We had a great time!

Grad Profile: Devon Taylor (2011/12)

Today's Loyalist PR grad profile features Devon Taylor (2011/12) who is now employed as a paid Communications Intern with the SickKids Foundation in Toronto.

Before enrolling in the Post-Graduate Public Relations Program at Loyalist College, Devon completed a double-major Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Political Science at the University of Ottawa.

Loyalist PR: What made you decide to enroll in the Post-Grad PR Program at Loyalist?

Devon Taylor: After my undergrad, I worked for a pub/bar in Ottawa and then moved to Mississauga to work for a major bank call centre. I wasn't enjoying my job with the bank, and, based on what I had heard about the benefits of taking a post-grad certificate (rather than a Masters), I looked at what Loyalist had to offer.

I knew I wanted to expand on my education in communications, and PR seemed to be a great fit.

Loyalist PR: What are some of your duties in your new role?

Devon: In this role, I have taken on a number of duties, from writing speeches, to helping organize learning seminars for our communications team. My duties also include: writing speaking notes, writing posts for the Foundation Intranet, media monitoring, updating metrics for our e-newsletter, interviewing and writing profiles for our patient ambassadors, distributing posters and brochures around the hospital, and assisting with setting up internal communication programs (i.e. Lunch & Learn, Think Tank Thursdays, etc.).

Loyalist PR: How did Loyalist PR help prepare you for your current position?

Devon: Loyalist PR expanded my knowledge of communications and PR, and gave me hands-on experience. By working on projects from start to finish (planning, writing, group meetings, editing, executing), I was able to develop new skills and learn how I work on projects (individually and with a team). Through the different courses and projects, I was also able to learn what specific aspects of PR I enjoy doing the most. Loyalist PR helped me become a better professional.

Loyalist PR: Can you share with us any highlights from your year in Loyalist PR?

Devon: Our group was wonderful. Class was always fun, no matter what the subject.

While I enjoyed the class trip (Steam Whistle and Strombo), my favourite parts of the year were the hands-on projects. The crisis communications day was fun and informative -- a great alternative to regular classroom discussion.

The biggest highlight for me, though, was the Work Your Wardrobe Fashion Show that I worked on with another classmate. It was great to see the results of our hard work, together with the support of our classmates, come together in a successful event.

Loyalist PR: Any words of advice for current or future PR students here at Loyalist?

Devon: Network. Take advantage of all learning opportunities. And smile!

Networking is huge, and you will hear that a lot going forward. Set up informational meetings with people working in the industry or for the company you're interested in.

Learning doesn't just happen in the classroom. Volunteering, taking advantage of seminars/webinars, and getting active in the industry (even on different social media platforms), will give you a chance to learn something new and valuable.

Smile. Smiling and being friendly, along with a positive attitude, goes  along way in any situation.

And one more thing... try not to procrastinate! Especially on setting up your internship.

Loyalist PR: Thanks for your thoughts and insights, Devon. And good luck in your future endeavours!

Grad Profile: Ashley Matheson (2009/10)

Today's Loyalist PR grad profile features Ashley Matheson (2009/10) who is now employed as Fund Development Coordinator for the Alzheimer Society of Belleville-Hastings-Quinte.

Prior to enrolling in the Post-Graduate Public Relations program at Loyalist College, Ashley completed a diploma in Advertising at Loyalist.

Loyalist PR: What made you decide to enroll in Loyalist PR?

Ashley Matheson: Ever since I can remember, I was always interested in pursuing a career in public relations, and felt that it was the best fit for my personality and attributes. My ambition was to find employment in the Belleville area, so I felt that by doing my studies at Loyalist College's Belleville campus, I would make crucial connections for future employment.

Loyalist PR: Can you tell us about some of your duties as Fund Development Coordinator?

Ashley: In a nutshell, my duties include being responsible for all the society's fundraising activities, donor cultivation and solicitation (individually, community-wise and corporately). Generally speaking, I'm responsible for community engagement, event management and donor development.

Loyalist PR: How did Loyalist PR help prepare you for your current position?

Ashley: Loyalist PR gave me the solid, well-rounded background I needed to be prepared for my position as a Fund Development Coordinator. Through assignments within the community, to my four-week work placement, I developed an awareness of the needs along with the tools necessary to be successful.

I can confidently say that through all the courses I studied in the Post-Graduate Public Relations program, I have certainly used all the skills I obtained -- both in my previous positions and in my current role with the Alzheimer Society of Belleville-Hastings-Quinte today.

Loyalist PR: Any highlights of your year in Loyalist PR that you'd like to share with us?

Ashley: There were many highlights -- some of them included getting the opportunity to meet many PR professionals that work in multiple sectors (non-profit, government, private, etc.); the Toronto trip where we got to visit the Steam Whistle Brewery in Toronto and had the opportunity to speak with their PR director; and also our trip to the taping of the George Stombolopolous show, among many other highlights!

But I would have to say one of the biggest highlights from my year was receiving the Kay Staib Memorial Scholarship award (from the International Association of Business Communicators), as well as the Community Service Award and Spirit Award during our PRISM awards at the end of the year.

Loyalist PR: Finally, do you have any words of advice for current or future students of Loyalist PR?

Ashley: I know it sounds cliche, but follow your dreams, and you can achieve what you strive for.

A motto I have made my life's mantra is "Do not follow where the path may lead; go instead where there is no path and leave a trail" (Muriel Strode). And whatever you do, don't get discouraged.

I know it can be so hard in today's unsettled economy, and I also felt discouraged when I didn't get a full-time job immediately. But remember, everything truly does happen for a reason. If I didn't work at the term, casual and part-time positions that I did, I wouldn't have made the connections I did either, and I wouldn't have gained the experience I have which made me the most qualified candidate for my current position.

Nobody knows what the future holds -- but as you grow and learn from your experiences, you will further develop your path. You just never know where you will find yourself one day!

Loyalist PR: Thanks so much, Ashley -- and we wish you the best of luck on your career path!

Mature student Ken MacPherson returns to Loyalist College... and tells us why

It has been nearly 25 years since Ken MacPherson last stepped inside a college classroom as a student.

After a corporate downsizing recently cost him his journalism job, he decided to return to Loyalist College's Post-Graduate Public Relations program to broaden his skill set and make himself more employable in an ever-changing workforce.

Following his first graduation from Loyalist in the late 1980s, Ken spent a number of years managing community television operations in Prince Rupert, BC and Medicine Hat, AB before moving into print journalism with a newspaper in the Annapolis Valley, NS.

There, he performed a number of job functions, from writing and photography to editing and page design. In the intervening years, Ken watched page design and photography develop from cut-and-paste and the dark room to the entire process being manipulated through a computer.

When he began his career, there was no Facebook or Twitter. Social media was an unformed term. Email was the rage, and was not considered the essential tool to which it eventually evolved. Most thought it quaint and interesting, but were unsure if it would ever replace telephones and fax machines.

Most were wrong.

Ken was one of those individuals who adapted to new technology. But, like others at the time, his change was mostly reactionary. He changed when the technology forced him to change, in order to keep up. Adapting was difficult, frustrating, fun and enlightening.

With his return to Loyalist College, Ken has decided to take change into his own hands. He has decided to position himself ahead of the curve, and perhaps the next technology revolution, by taking advantage of what Loyalist College has to offer (for the second time).

Public relations, more so than most other career paths, will rely almost exclusively on new media and new ways that people have not yet conceived, to advance their ideas.

Ken doesn't want to be just a follower in this new media world; he wants to lead it.

It all begins here.

Class of 2013 takes off... and aims high!

The new crew of Loyalist PR students got off to a great start this week... culminating in a vigorous game of beach volleyball (with apologies to Devin, who seemed to take all the hits!).

Kudos to all the participants and members of the cheering squad. Let's keep up the energy and enthusiasm as the months progress -- it's going to be a great year!

Photo by: Linda Horn  (2012)

Grad Profile: Lise Rouleau (PR 2011/12)

Today's graduate profile features Lise Rouleau (Loyalist PR 2011/12) who is now employed as the Special Events & Operations Manager at Taste the County in Prince Edward County.

 

Prior to enrolling in the Post-Graduate Public Relations Program at Loyalist College, Lise completed her diploma in Business Administration and Human Resources at Loyalist College.

 

Loyalist PR: What made you decide to enroll in Loyalist PR?

Lise Rouleau: Loyalist College was a perfect fit for me as a mature student, because it is small and has a supportive environment. I felt that even though the business program was excellent, I needed an edge that would put me above the competition, and give me a better chance of getting a job that not only supported me, but that I could be passionate about. It did all that and more!

Loyalist PR: How did Loyalist PR help prepare you for your current position?

Lise: Loyalist gave me 100% what I needed. It built my confidence and taught me how to work in a group, deal with challenges, understand different personalities and think critically. I learned leadership qualities and it gave me a strong foundation in a multitude of areas that differentiated me from the competition. It gave me many opportunities to work with community partners and network, which is vital to finding a job.

 

Loyalist PR: Can you discuss some of your current duties on the job?

Lise: When I first came to Taste the County [as an intern five months ago], my job was to run a new event from the ground up. That included getting participants, communicating with partners, meeting with a committee and organizing the structure the event would take. I had to find and set up speakers, venues, volunteers, social media, sponsors and advertising for the event as well.

As the summer progressed (I was hired on after internship), I had to deal with printers, graphic designers, as well as partners of Taste the County. I am also the one who edits and controls the organization's many web sites, blogs and social media properties.

Now that I am the Operations Manager as well, I will be organizing the office, including answering questions from partners as well as tourists. I also design the critical paths for our events and publications. It has been a fantastic learning experience, and I could not have done it without learning as much as I did from Loyalist PR!

Loyalist PR: What was the highlight of your experience in Loyalist PR?

Lise: I loved every minute. Having one classroom and working with the same, small group all year was fantastic. The highlight of my experience was applying what we were learning in a community project that had real results.

Loyalist PR: Any words of advice for current or future students of the program?

Lise: Take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the experience of Loyalist PR. Take advantage of every opportunity to learn and better yourself. Do not sit back and watch the year go by. Get involved and participate in it all to the best of your ability. And NETWORK which you will hear repeatedly throughout the year. I would do it all over again... that is how amazing the experience was!

Loyalist PR: Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts with us today, Lise -- we wish you great success in all that you do in the future.

Grad Profile: Carlie McCann (2011/12)

Today’s grad profile features Carlie McCann (Loyalist PR 2011/12) who is now employed as the Communications Coordinator at Ottawa Tourism.

 

Prior to enrolling in the Post-Graduate Public Relations Program at Loyalist College, Carlie completed a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) at Queen’s University in English Literature and French Studies, and a Bachelor of Education (Queen’s).

 

Loyalist PR: What made you decide to enroll in Loyalist PR?

 

Carlie McCann: I decided to enroll in the Loyalist PR program because, after a bit of job hunting, I realized that my undergraduate education wasn’t enough to get a job in the field that I wanted. I hoped to get a job related to communications and I knew that I needed to have more hands-on experience in the hard skills required on the job.

 

Reading over the descriptions for the Loyalist PR courses, I saw that I would have the opportunity to work on real projects and complete an internship in addition to learning the skills in a classroom setting.

I was also really excited about doing a one-year program. I felt that a busy, action-packed year would compliment the education and employment experience that I already had. 

Loyalist PR: How did Loyalist PR help prepare you for your current position? 

Carlie: I can't think of any ways that Loyalist PR didn't prepare me for my current job. Almost everything I'm doing at work was covered in class in some way or another.

I learned about a lot of hard skills that I'm using on a daily basis, like event planning, professional writing, and long-term project planning. We had a guest speaker who talked about media monitoring, one of my big duties at work right now.

The opportunities to work with people outside of the classroom for the many client projects helped me to learn about interacting with professionals in other fields, like journalists. During my interview for this position, I had an answer and an example for every question that they asked, based on my experiences in the program. 

I also got to work more on honing my soft skills in a lot of areas. I felt that I had to be a lot more organized at school this year than I was in undergrad, because many of the projects required so much planning and effort. I also feel that I developed better leadership and teamwork skills in Loyalist PR, both skills that I use in the workplace everyday.

The hands-on nature of the program really lets students see what areas they are good at, and helps everyone to shine in some way or another! 

Finally, the required internship was a great opportunity to get more hands-on experience. I loved that we were all encouraged to find an internship in an area that really interested us, doing work that would benefit us in the long-term. The support that we all received in the months leading up to internships (advice on where to go, résumé assistance, lots of early planning) was priceless! 

Loyalist PR: What are some of your current duties as Communications Coordinator at Ottawa Tourism?

Carlie: At this job, I work with journalists who are coming to Ottawa to write about tourism in the area. After we have found out about goals for the trip and the stories that will come from it, my coworkers and I create an itinerary that they can follow while they're in the city to make sure that they get the most out of their experience. I also prepare their press kits and make sure that they are tailored specifically for the journalists' upcoming adventures. 

After the trips, we follow up with the journalists to learn about the coverage that their visit will generate. I keep records of what they did and what industry partners participated in their visit, then help with any follow up information that they may need, like backgrounders and photos. 

I also do media monitoring to track information about Ottawa in different regional, national and international media outlets and how it will benefit tourism in Ottawa.  

Loyalist PR: Can you share any of your highlights during your year with Loyalist PR?

Carlie: The fact that Loyalist PR is a small program is a huge advantage and a highlight in and of itself. I had the opportunity to become close friends with many of my classmates, and the friendships really helped to make the whole experience really special. 

One special moment in particular, though, was when I was chosen by my classmates to be valedictorian at the end of the year. It was such a special honour to be asked to speak at the ceremony, and I was overjoyed at the opportunity! I enjoyed sitting down and reflecting on everything that had happened throughout the year, and the fact that I was chosen by my friends and classmates was really something special. 

Loyalist PR: Any words of advice for current or future Loyalist PR students?

Carlie: The best way to learn something is by doing it, and Loyalist PR will give you a million opportunities to do whatever it is that you're interested, be it writing, speaking, planning events or fundraising. So take advantage of everything during your year of Loyalist PR! But don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something really new, too. You will hopefully learn something about yourself and what you're capable of! 

Loyalist PR: Thanks, Carlie – great to catch up with you. All the best in your new position!