By Sylvie Colon
Rising Stars is a series of thoughts, reflections and perspectives by the interns at Devine + Partners. Sylvie Colon is a senior at Temple University studying Public Relations with a minor in Criminal Justice.
A ballroom filled with professionals. The temperature in the room rises from the number of people and the light from the chandeliers. You can hardly hear yourself think over the noise of conversations and elevator pitches. Some people shy away from this kind of environment—but this is where I thrive.
Last October, I attended the Public Relations Student Society of America International Conference (ICON) in Anaheim, Ca. This was my first conference, and I wasn’t sure what path I wanted to take in PR. After ICON, I had a much deeper understanding of the PR field and knew I wanted to dive deeper into crisis communications. It also taught me a lesson about the importance of conferences like this to network, deepen your understanding of PR and even have some fun. Here are some things I learned.
Networking Opportunities
Conferences are hubs for like-minded peers and professionals with similar interests. They have built-in networking opportunities such as lunches and coffee breaks, making it an opportunistic time to strike up a conversation with attendees and to hear about their career journey. Moreover, you can share your story and pitch yourself if it feels appropriate.
After a conversation, you should exchange contact information like LinkedIn profiles or emails to remain in touch. You never know who might have a job opportunity. But don’t go into a conversation, especially with a seasoned professional, expecting a job. Be kind, ask questions and pitch yourself without expecting a job.
Learn From Professionals
Conferences allow the opportunity to gain knowledge beyond a traditional classroom setting. You learn from successful PR practitioners who have been in the profession for years. They offer a unique perspective on the field—one that young professionals are only beginning to explore.
Learning opportunities at conferences come from breakout sessions and keynote speakers. Breakout sessions are specialized sessions with either one speaker or a panel of speakers and a moderator. Several breakout sessions run at the same time, so the sessions are more intimate than big keynote speaker sessions.
Keynote speakers address all conference attendees in a larger space. These speeches tend to be longer and have less time for audience questions. You can still connect with keynote speakers following their session, but it might be harder to get a hold of them and form a more personal relationship.
Get Comfortable Being Uncomfortable
Sometimes, the reality is that conferences are not the most relaxing events. They run for long hours, require a lot of energy and often have limited food. It can also be difficult to stay awake if your body is trying to adjust to a time zone difference.
Despite this, it is imperative to take full advantage of a conference and get comfortable being uncomfortable. Go up to strangers and introduce yourself. When you feel antsy during a keynote, take a quick walk and return for the remainder of the session. If you can feel your mind wandering during a breakout session, close your eyes and refocus.
The more conferences you attend, the more comfortable you will become. It’s a lot to take in at first, but it’s worth it in the end.
How Can I Do This on a College Budget?
While I endorse all the benefits of attending a conference, it comes at a price—a very steep price. Conference registration, travel and lodging all add up. As college students, it’s not feasible for us to attend a conference completely out-of-pocket.
However, there are clever ways to lighten the financial burden.
First, join your local PRSSA chapter. Some chapters send members to conferences and pay for registration, travel and lodging.
Second, apply for a scholarship. Some conferences offer scholarship opportunities for young professionals to attend for free. Most scholarship applications aren’t more demanding than a dozen questions about yourself and why you want to attend the conference. Some scholarships cover registration, while others cover every expense.
Third, find a local conference. Many PRSSA Chapters across the nation host conferences. In 2026, Temple PRSSA will be hosting the Mid-Atlantic District Conference Mic Drop: PR in Entertainment. I don’t have to worry about transportation or lodging since the conference will be held on my college’s campus. Registration for student-run conferences also tends to be cheaper.
Think you have an excuse to skip out on the next conference? Think again! There are so many advantages to attending a conference as a young PR professional. Take that leap of faith and register for a conference today!
Devine + Partners is a Philadelphia public relations agency. We offer a full range of communications services – from message and content development and media relations to issues management and employee and community engagement.
