University of Southern Mississippi Participates in Agency Tour

January 25, 2012

In November, the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) Chapter at University of Southern Mississippi (USM) visited Deveney Communications in New Orleans to learn from representatives of the small public relations firm with a rich portfolio of public relations experience.

Deveney Communications President John Deveney greeted the seven attendees with a handshake and a smile. The firm showcased their industry awards and honors. By the time the members reached the break room and sat down, Deveney already knew everyone’s names – demonstrating the important step in communications of connecting to one’s audience.

Deveney introduced some of the agency’s team, including account supervisor Ellie Rand. Her opening words offered a three-point series of advice, “One, there is always time for coffee. Two, always take your last call at the end of the day, making it the one you’re waiting for. Three, there is always time for coffee.”

Rand continued her advice by stressing the importance of students taking internships seriously. One of her tips was to be at your internship every day. Rand said, “People need to see you every day. This will make you more involved in strategies.” She said interns who work only two to three times a week may not be given as many assignments as interns who work daily. Rand also explained that news writing is a best practice for public relations.

Gisele Caamano, senior communication strategist for the firm,  detailed her several years of public relations experience including media relations for the got milk?^® campaign and advertising campaigns for companies like Kellogg’s, Allstate, GMC and Samsung. Her main advice: “Be a sponge.” Caamano said the best thing aspiring public relations practitioners can do is familiarize themselves with different areas of knowledge and learn new things.

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Contact:

Sammi Greco, Chapter President

samanthagreco29@gmail.com