Jilliaen Fiebelkorn and Karen Johnson, both recent graduates of Metropolitan State University, recently earned their Certificates in Principles of Public Relations from the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA). Both women earned the honor in June 2017.
The Certificate in Principles of Public Relations was introduced by the Public Relations Society of America in 2014. The initiative encourages PRSSA members in their senior year – six months before or after graduation – to prove their public relations acumen through a computer-based examination. Students are tested on 13 KSAs (knowledge, skills and abilities), in areas such as planning, implementation, evaluation, communications theories and ethics. The certificate gives graduates a leg up on the competition by proving their skillset and competency within the PR profession.
Fiebelkorn chose to pursue the certificate as a way to prove her commitment to the profession to potential employers.
“I think it is best to take advantage of every learning opportunity,” said Fiebelkorn. “This particular certificate, I hope, will show employers who is serious about working toward a successful career in public relations.”
Johnson was a returning student going after a new career path. Pursuing the certificate was a way for her to stand out and prove her knowledge.
“I wanted to make sure I took as much opportunity as I could to stand out and gain as much knowledge as possible. Once I passed that rigorous exam, I had more confidence in my knowledge of PR and it was exciting to add it to my resume,” said Johnson.
Fiebelkorn is a Minnesota native who relocated to the Seattle four months ago with her family. She attended Metropolitan State University where she focused on public relations. She has two sons, and enjoys travel, food and the outdoors.
Johnson graduated in December of 2016 from Metropolitan State University with a degree in Public Relations. She currently works in property management at Aeon, a nonprofit housing developer, in Minneapolis, MN. She plans to expand into a larger communications role within the company and the affordable housing industry.
Earning a Certificate in Principles of Public Relations is a four-step process. More information can be found on the PR Accreditation website.