Student Public Relations Associate

Purpose:

The Student Public Relations Associate will gain visibility into the inner workings of a large multi-level organization through supporting University Housing and Dining’s (UHD) media relations efforts. This role will assist the communications team with PR strategy, interviews, monitoring media, deliverables and more. In addition to core tasks, this role will help grow skills in many areas, including but not limited to interpersonal communication, teamwork, planning and prioritizing, solutions-oriented thinking and problem solving.

Responsibilities:

• Content Creation

  • Assist with writing communication to residents, staff and other key audiences according to brand guidelines, tone, grammar, style and PR strategy. Help write and edit press releases, social media content and story pitches.

  • Work with the content team to develop and write story ideas for short- and long-form content to publish on UHD-owned channels.

  • Review UHD-owned platforms to ensure accuracy of public-facing statements and information, working with the content team to write and publish consistent, accurate information.

• Media Outreach

  • Monitor media outlets for content mentioning department, University and other related entities. Compile reports tracking results.

  • Collaborate with the communications team to pitch stories to internal media sources, journalists and media outlets.

  • Update media contact lists and databases.

• Research and Analysis

  • Conduct research on industry trends and news, potential media placement opportunities, comparative analysis and internal audits. Prepare reports and suggest strategic ideas for optimizing PR strategies.

• Strategy and Campaigns

  • Help the communications team with PR strategy development and implementation that supports the goals and brand of the organization.

  • Work with marketing and communications creative team through all phases of a campaign – brainstorming, planning, creation, multimedia support, implementation and assessment.

  • Assist in crisis management and reputation management activities and planning.

Required Qualifications:

• Enrolled in courses at the Moody College of Communication

Preferred Qualifications:

• Junior or senior status and/or must have completed at least one full academic year at an institute of higher learning (first year students are not eligible, regardless of earned credits or classification)

• Strong writing skills

• AP Style

• Previous experience in advertising, marketing or another related field preferred

Compensation:

• $13.75 per hour

Working Conditions:

• This position is based in Austin, TX and is expected to work on campus

• Position may work up to 25 hours per week

• May work outside in all weather conditions

• May work nights and weekends

• Typical office environment

• May carry small equipment

Required Materials:

• Resume

• Letter of interest