Hello there! My name is Alison Ball, I am a senior Public Relations major and a Photojournalism minor that would like to share my love for our department with you.

The first day I stepped foot on Union’s campus I knew Public Relations was the path God had for me. The benefits of small class sizes and a close-knit department allow for numerous opportunities for growth in the lovely field of communications.

My relationship with faculty has allowed for conversations that have sparked my interest in a number of organizations and events. One organization I have become very active in over the course of my four years is Union’s chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA). This is a nationally recognized organization that extends Public Relations experience and knowledge, not to mention the great internships and scholarship benefits offered.

We are a young but growing chapter who is beginning to make our mark on campus. At the beginning of the semester PRSSA hosted the return of “Mr. Campus.” This hilarious event served as a fundraiser for us this year. Seven charming and talented gentlemen participated in this parade of male humor, we had cowboys, roosters even talented musicians vowing for the coveted title of “Mr. Campus.” Our 2007 “Mr. Campus” received a dashing crown and scepter along with some pretty great gift certificates from area businesses. Needless to say, the event was a success and PRSSA members hope to see you there next year, maybe even on stage!

Along with using our skills on campus, our bid for a Regional Activity was recently chosen. These events are hosted throughout the country by various PRSSA chapters and we are one of 13 schools hosting in 2008. Our activity will be held in Nashville this spring to learn more about our field, meet other peers and gain National recognition. When you come visit us, or even better, come join us, you will find we are not a major that sits around and waits for things to happen; we are seeking new ways to have hands-on-learning experiences and are becoming more active every day.

At the end of October we will be working on the promotion of a campus-wide concert featuring artists from Nashville. In addition to this concert we worked with Hanson, yes "Mmmbop," last semester in promoting their new single, "Great Divide," on campus and hosted other Nashville artists to help bring students together to celebrate great music as well as the hope Hanson found in Africa.

I cannot forget to mention the photojournalism aspect of my life. My visual creativity has grown and changed over the past few years in ways they wouldn’t have anywhere else. At Union, I am able to visualize it and bring it to fruition thanks to the equipment available to students as well as the unbeatable instruction in the classroom.

Throughout my time spent in this department I have been able to help organizations in the community through public relations campaigns and social documentary classes. The help I have been able to extend to the Jackson community in and outside of class has been more rewarding than any grade I have received.

I cannot tell you how thankful I am for our department; it is growing and changing everyday. We all hope you come visit us at Union University!