While aspiring PR pros are still in school, they are constantly reminded that internships are essential if they ever want to get a job in the industry. In recent years, some college students have found an alternative to the traditional internship — joining a student-run PR firm.

Across the country, students at colleges and universities have launched their own PR firms and taken on a variety of “real-world” clients. Those who take part in these student-run firms are able to put their PR skills to work and enjoy a number of unique experiences. In the Greater Philadelphia area, there are three local schools that boast successful student-run PR firms: Drexel University, Rowan University and Temple University.

33rd Street Public Relations – Drexel University

What began as the communications senior project of Drexel student and PRSSA member Sarah Mason quickly developed into a functioning PR firm. Sarah’s goal was to form a student-run public relations firm as a tool for applied learning. Upon its launch, 33rd Street Public Relations only had one client (Drexel’s student-run literary publication, Maya) but in the years since, the firm’s client list has grown immensely. Today, 33rd Street Public Relations offers a wide array of communication services to both professional clients and Drexel University student organizations.

PRaction – Rowan University

PRaction was started by members of the Anthony J. Fulginiti Chapter of PRSSA at Rowan University nearly 3 decades ago. Their firm is all about putting the PR skills students learn in the classroom into action. PRaction’s past clients include Rowan University’s Department of Theater and Dance, Bogey’s Club and Café, Two Vic’s Sports Shop and Studio 24 Scoops and More. This year they are working with a number of clients, including the Greater Pitman Chamber of Commerce, the Salvation Army Kroc Center in Camden and Labrador Hill Farm. Students are encouraged to join PRaction at the beginning of each semester, and they can reach out to Vice President Henry Grant at granth31@students.rowan.edu with any inquiries. Potential clients can contact President Stephanie Russo via email at russos17@students.rowan.edu.

PRowl Public Relations – Temple University

PRowl Public Relation is Temple University’s first and only student-run PR firm. PRowl strives to provide clients with comprehensive PR strategies and solutions, offer Temple PRSSA members the opportunity to apply their knowledge and gain experience beyond the classroom, and build credibility while forming lasting student-client relationships. In recent years, PRowl has worked with clients such as the Lemon Hill Mansion, Temple University’s Department of Strategic Communication, and the Pennsylvania Innocence Project. Interested students and potential clients can contact Firm Director Kaitlyn Sutton via email at tuc50460@temple.edu.

Have you been a part of a student-run PR firm? What did you learn from the experience? Tell us about it in the comments section below.