One of things educators always want to make sure they can do is to bring forth current trends, real world applications of principles from the workplace back to class, and connect students with leading professionals in the field.
To have this opportunities are truly life changing both professionally and personally. I have always strived to look for programs and initiatives that focused on these types of experiences, which leads to my exciting news.
I am very, very excited to announce I have been named a 2015 Plank Center Fellow.
So, what does it mean to be a Plank Fellow? The Plank Fellowship Program is a wonderful initiative by the Plank Center to build a stronger bridge between education and practice by connecting educators with practitioners over the summer for a two week period. This program is relatively new (established back in 2010), but what a great opportunity and initiative to have here for PR professors!
The fellowship is usually two weeks long, but the company and educator are working together based on needs, interests, and expertise. The educator will spend these two weeks within an agency or company to help out with a project, do research, or a workshop to name a few of the possible projects. In addition, the educator can then invite the hosts of the company/agency back to their respective universities for guest lectures, community talks, and tours of the city and campus.
So, with that being said, I am beyond thrilled to be able to spend my fellowship at General Motors. One of the biggest global brands out there and doing some pretty cool things on social media, it will be a truly wonderful learning and hands on experience for me to explore the GM brand and to have the opportunity to learn about current trends, campaigns, and initiatives by this great company. I am looking forward to my time in Detroit later this summer.
I am forever grateful for the recommendation and encouragement to be part of this program by my good friend and PR colleague, Dave Remund, who participated in the program back in 2013 and is also a Plank Fellow. I will be updating about my experience during my time and providing feedback on my experience for the Plank Center as well.
If you are a professor who would love to be part of this program, you should check out these reviews of the program and definitely apply for the fellowship next summer.
Hope you all are having a great day!
Best Wishes,
