Ducks On The Pond

The Portland Paddle, an annual event sponsored by the University of Oregon School of Journalism and Communication (SOJC) and the UO Chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA), celebrated a decade of helping students connect with professionals at the UO SOJC Turnbull Center in the City of Roses on January 25.

The networking event provides a gaggle of young Ducks with the opportunity to have one-on-one conversations with experienced professionals, receiving tips on how to prepare portfolios, how to conduct an effective interview to land that first job, and how to write and design an attention-getting resume and cover letter.

Though its genesis dates back to 2000, the event marked its 10th anniversary as the Portland Paddle this year. What’s particularly gratifying is seeing so many of my former students serving as professional reviewers with current students. Like ducks on the pond, these students are now poised for success in the PR job market.