This school year is definitely like no other. Usually, we just have to worry about stuff like our class schedules and getting our homework done, but we now have much bigger things to worry about such as social distancing, not infecting ourselves or others with COVID-19, and our mental health after being in quarantine for six months.
The Washington State University chapter is trying to navigate this new virtual world and is actively searching for more ways to keep our members safe while still developing our professional lives. We did not know we would be entirely online until WSU announced it about three weeks before the semester started. This meant we had to act fast to figure out how to hold our meetings and activities with our members living all around the country.
We gather every other week over Zoom and so far, our attendance has been higher than it was while meeting in person. We have been very active on our social media, particularly Instagram, and have been seeing a lot of new engagement as well. We post our Zoom meeting links on our pages so anyone who wants to join can do so at the click of a button.
The move to online learning has also created many amazing opportunities. We plan on having virtual agency tours with agencies across the country since we are usually only able to visit Seattle or Spokane. Since our meetings are all through Zoom, we can also meet with other chapters for more networking opportunities. The WSU chapter is very excited to take on this new normal and connect with professionals regardless of location.
About the Author
My name is Madison Hemphill, I am graduating in May 2021, I’m double majoring in public relations and risk and crisis communication, and I am working toward a career in an environment where I can grow and showcase my talents professionally while still having fun and enjoying what I do.
