From Lindsey Zimmerman
“How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” -Winnie the Pooh
My only Scripps PRSSA-related regret is that I didn’t join this great organization sooner. As a third-year senior who only discovered my passion for PR during fall semester of my second year, I’ve only been a part of this wonderful group of PR stars for two years, but it feels like so much longer than that (in a good way). Despite my shorter-than-average time with this organization, PRSSA and the people in it have made a lasting impression on me and formed me into the aspiring professional I can now proudly call myself.
I knew as soon as I walked into my first PRSSA info session in fall 2013 that this was something I wanted to be a part of. As it turns out, my intuition was right. Why wouldn’t I want to be a part of something that allows me to network with industry leaders and take advantage of incredible professional opportunities that I wouldn’t have been able to experience otherwise?
While all of that stuff is great, my absolute favorite part of Scripps PRSSA is the people I share it with. Every single person who came to the Friends of the Library room (and previously Scripps 111) Monday after Monday is truly special in one way or another, and any employer would be seriously blessed to have you. However, I have to acknowledge a few people who truly helped to shape my experience and make it one to remember:
Marisa Dockum, my wonderful mentor, for making me feel so welcome into the organization when I was brand new and always being there to offer valuable words of wisdom.
Kaylee Powers, one of my first friends in PRSSA, for your kindness, compassion, and inspiration to develop a killer personal brand.
Nicole Spears, former Madam President, for giving me opportunities such as PR Career Week as a brand new member and inspiring me to grow as a professional.
Allison Evans, who came up and hugged me as I was booking it out of the Friends room after 2014 e-board elections, for being incredibly supportive (on more than just that occasion), believing in me, and helping me to see the best in myself.
Kelsey Miller, for being a source of eternal optimism and positivity, as well as one of the funniest and most creative people I’ve ever known.
And of course, this school year wouldn’t have been the same without my experience with the Bateman team. Thank you to Jess Carnprobst, who is nothing less than gracious and humble despite being one of the most talented young professionals I know. Thank you to Mira Kuhar, who inspires me with her positive and upbeat personality and her drive to achieve anything. And thank you to Marisa Fiore, whose commitment, responsibility and work ethic I admire greatly. Working with you three was an incredible experience and taught me so much about why Athens Matters (and so does insulation).
This is just a handful of the more than 100 talented and hardworking students who make Scripps PRSSA such a respected organization, both on Ohio University’s campus and nationwide. We are one of the best chapters in the country for good reason, and I see that play out every single time I walk into a Monday night meeting. There is no doubt in my mind that every single one of you will go on to change the world.
I am unbelievably excited for the next chapter in my life, which will involve an internship in Cleveland for the summer before I say adiós to Ohio and head off to Spain in the fall. There is no doubt in my mind that I would not be headed off on this journey without the inspiration and support of my PRSSA family. Gracias con todo mi corazón.
Love,
Lindsey Zimmerman