Florida State University’s Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA) Student Capital Chapter traveled to Orlando for their semesterly networking trip, exposing their members to real-world professionals and environments with opportunities to make valuable connections.

During the trip, the group met with public relations (PR) professionals from Universal Orlando Resort, Visit Orlando, the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, and agencies &Barr and Curley & Pynn.

“The networking trips are the best way for students to learn about the PR and strategic communication industry not only in a particular city but also more broadly,” said FPRA President Marlowe Dunn Flom. “In the past, some of our students have secured internships and jobs with the professionals we meet, but all students get to learn outside of the classroom what it takes to succeed in this industry and what skills and opportunities they should be seeking out.”

When asked why they choose Orlando, Dunn Flom highlighted the city’s emphasis on tourism, travel, and hospitality PR. He added, “It also helps that since Orlando is such a fun place, we easily made many memories together during the networking trip.” The group also connected with the University of Central Florida’s FPRA chapter, further expanding their network.

PR senior Michael Alfele shared that this was his third networking trip with FPRA. “It may have been the best one yet. As someone passionate about tourism and hospitality PR, this trip was a perfect fit, featuring multiple stops tailored to that niche. It’s a great way for PR students to see real-world examples of potential career paths, helping them envision different work environments and explore various aspects of the field.”

Vice President Paige Peterson added, “My favorite part of the trip was seeing all of our members engage and connect with the inspiring professionals we met and each other. I loved seeing the bonds that were created between our members and the new friendships that were formed!”

To prepare for these trips, Dunn Flom and Peterson go over the itinerary, research the companies, and prepare questions. “FPRA prepares its students very well for this networking trip by providing a thorough itinerary of the trip, the professionals we will be visiting, and even questions to ask them,” he said.

PR and Psychology senior Sophie Vega appreciated the diverse learning opportunities the trip offered. “As a music and theatre lover, getting to tour the iconic Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in Orlando was a surreal experience, showing that creating a space to celebrate community can be a powerful part of PR,” she said.

FSU’s FPRA chapter anticipates future networking trips and will continue connecting members through biweekly meetings.