As the largest association of public relations professionals in the world, the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) has more than 31,000 individual members across the country. Members are organized into local chapters, of which there are currently more than 109.

Founded in 1947, this society represents members who practice in all sectors of the public relations industry, including nonprofit agencies, the military, the government, hospitals, schools, professional firms, and more. This provides professionals in the field with opportunities to network and brainstorm with other members at meetings and to increase their knowledge of the industry through seminars, conferences, and study programs. There are even chapters for public relations specialists in training, with more than 285 Public Relations Student Society of America chapters at universities across the country. According to the society's website, "supporting PRSA, each member builds value, demand, and global understanding for the profession."

Additionally, the PRSA has a foundation that, with the help of contributions, strives to develop the profession through research, education, and scholarships.

Benefits to Becoming a Member

There are many benefits to becoming a member of the Public Relations Society of America. As mentioned before, there are many opportunities to increase one's knowledge of the field. Through teleseminars, webcasts, self-study courses, and access to the society's professional resource center, members can further develop public relations tactics and strategies to assist them in their careers.

The PRSA's job center provides a list of open public relations positions across the country to aid its members with finding employment in the field. Additionally, the job center is open to companies looking for employees.

Because there are so many participants across the country, PRSA members enjoy access to numerous new methods and approaches in this ever-evolving field. Many members find mentors through the society's mentoring program, which is offered through the College of Fellows and provides guidance online and in person from accredited professionals with 20 or more years of experience to those new to the industry.

The PRSA also offers accreditation, which is the only certification option for professionals in the field of public relations.

Through its numerous award programs, the PRSA also recognizes individuals for their work on public relations strategies and campaigns.

Becoming a Member

To qualify for membership in the Public Relations Society of America, one must dedicate at least 50% of his or her time to being a paid public relations professional or to teaching or administering the public relations curriculum at an accredited college or university, according to the PRSA's website. Members must also abide by the society's bylaws, pay dues, and adhere to a code of ethics.

For more information on the Public Relations Society of America, Public Relations Student Society of America, or Public Relations Society of America Foundation, visit www.prsa.org.

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