A Date with Your Future Career

You know what they say, February is a month filled with love and professional development! Okay, so maybe that isn’t a common saying. Throughout February, UF PRSSA is #ReadytoPRo with Alpha Productions. This means a month dedicated to providing students with interview tips, ways to improve their resume and cover letters and other career development skills.

The perfect way to kick off the month of February was with a professional career workshop. During this speed dating event, students met with CJC professors to gain advice and information on a variety of career topics. This workshop also included a headshot fundraiser. Along with UF PRSSA, this event was held in collaboration with the Hispanic Public Relations Student Association (HPRSA) and the Chomp Chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA). CJC students were able to gain skills on how to navigate their early careers while also receiving professional headshots from student photographers.

Dr. DiStaso, professor and chair of the UF PR Department, advised students to gain a diversity of experiences in their internships, jobs and volunteer opportunities. Job burnout is real, and no one wants to be stuck in a position where they have only a small set of abilities. Gaining this versatility of skills opens the door to more career opportunities.

Professor Mickey Nail shared the following advice on interview etiquette:

  • Dress to impress 

    • Do not worry about being overdressed. It shows that you care about your presentation.

  • Do not show up on time, show up early

    • You should have enough time to sign in, go to the restroom to freshen up and wait in the lobby for your interview time.

  • Do not draw unnecessary attention to yourself

    • You want to stand out from the other applicants but not in an unconventional manner. Do now show up to your interview with a notebook covered in bright, flashy stickers or colorful doodles you drew while you were bored in class.

  • Bring something to write on

    • This shows your interest in the company and the opportunities it provides.

  • Be prepared!

    • Do your research ahead of time. Look up your interviewer on Linkedin, get to know the company by reading their website and be sure you understand which position you’re applying for.

All of the CJC professors shared a common piece of advice for students as they journey into their careers: Do what you care about. Finding a job that aligns with your passions is the most important thing a person can do. This is a good tip to keep in mind for all UF students who are striving for a fulfilling career.

Be sure to check out @ufprssa and @alphaproductions to stay up to do date on all things #ReadytoPRo coming this month.

Written by Meredith Rideout

UF PRSSA