Citibank was founded in New York City in 1812. As of June 2009, Citigroup is the third largest bank in the United States. Citibank operates in more than 100 countries, and was one of the first banks in the United States to introduce an automatic teller machine (ATM) to their customers. Citibank has been serving communities around the globe for more than 30 years.

Citibank’s customer service responsibility division, Citi-Foundation is comprised of five areas of focus: Microfinance and microenterprise, small and growing businesses, education, financial education and asset building, and community development. “Philanthropy and community involvement are not only important aspects of our role in society, but they also say something about who we are. We will continue to look for new and better ways to serve our communities." Explains Citi-FoundationPresident, Pamela P. Flaherty. Each area of focus is unique and targets a different global issue.

In 1996, I participated in a program sponsored by Citi-Foundation and The Future Business Leaders of America. I was offered an internship at their Wall Street corporate office in in New York, NY. For two summers I worked as a fraud detection specialist. This opportunity gave me the experience to move directly into corporate America at the age of 18. Before writing this paper, I never made the connection that Citi-Foundation set me up for success.

Citigroup’s Foundation program gave $88.9 Million dollars in 2008 alone, in contributions targeted toward customer service responsibility. 43% of Foundations grants in 2008 were targeted to programs outside of the United States. Citigroup strives to effect change in the united states. “By working with Citi Country Officers, country Public Affairs Officers, and our local businesses, they work to strengthen our involvement in our strategic focus areas in the communities in which we do business.”

To learn more visit Citi-Foundation's Website: www.citibank.com/citi/foundation/

The article "Job Market Turns Must Worse", shares a dismal decline in the salaries and positions available in the communications field. The statistics show that only 17% of public relations graduates actually took a job in the traditional public relations field. I’m forced to ask myself the question, did I chose a degree in a field that is being phased out? The conclusion that I decided on is no. Being a Communication major with a minor in public relations has without a doubt strengthened my writing, research and time management skills. I honestly can not think of an industry where these traits are not valuable. 17% of PR Grads working in PR should worry other industries, as that leaves 83% qualified competitors in another field.

Most graduates dream of their future and the career path. However through experience I have found that with or without a degree and in or out of a recession, the market will dictate your future career. My favorite doctor has a BA in English and At PR Day this year, I met a history major that worked in IT. I said that to say, I’m staying positive despite what statistics say. My passion is HR and ideally that would be the best position, ideally. But when this graduate leaves college, I will know that I received a degree that changed my work ethic, professional stance and gave me a good running start in the market, even if that start doesn’t lump me with the 17%. Without communication commerce is impossible, which leaves a diverse list of options out there for us pr pros. Besides if its one thing I've learned as an undergrad in PR, it's to always have a plan A and B.

Learning to apply PR in familiar setting is somewhat of a craft. Learning to apply PR in international waters can be compared to learning a new language. In the International Public Relations study presented in the textbook, “Cases in Public Relations Management” tips, essentials and guidelines are highlighted and we will discuss those shortly.
NatureWorks LLC., produces “improved plastics made of corn-based PLA by making them easier to manufacture and more heat resistant.” In laymen’s terms they make green biodegradable packaging. This case study was important and relates to international public relations because of their beginnings. Thought to be a passing trend or fade in eastern Europe NatureWorks LLC had to tailor their appeal to fit international markets. To become the global provider that NatureWorks, LLC is today, they had to learn different cultures, markets and learn how communicate their products appeal and benefits.
This leads me to those tips refer to earlier:
1. Level of media development and professionalism
2. Level of economic development
3. Political ideology
4. Societal tolerance for activism
5. Strength of labor unions
6. Level of development of the legal system
7. State to state relations
8. Relationship between gov’t and business
These components are different in every country. Learning how they affect public relations and commerce was beneficial to NatureWorks LLC., as you can’t market to a consumer that you don’t understand.

Balancing school, work and play.
Buy a planner and use it. In the PR World things happen fast, keeping tracks of dates and deadlines will pay off in the end.

Network, Network, Network!
This term is tossed around so much that it may be the “cliché” that many overlook. However its importance is invaluable. Maintaining strong connects have helped me consistently with references to space reservations. Keep you friends close and your business associates closer.

Social Media is no longer a trend it sets the bar.
Your Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Flicker, Blog and every other online subscription is now your professional or unprofessional connection to endless possibilities. Social media outlets are used by businesses, potential employers and cyber networkers. Using them wisely can open doors, but ignoring their global presence can leave you in the 20th century.

Proof Reading
Definitely not my strong suit, but in the land of publication and especially print creditability is earned not given. If people can not trust what you write it’s not worth the LCD screen its viewed on.

Plan to Fail
Most plans do not go as planned. It is your job as public relations professionals to foresee these mini crises. If you have backup plan it will save you time and stress WHEN things go differently than plan. Super efficient PR practitioners will typically have a Plan A, Plan B and Plan C.

Save your biggest accomplishments and achievements.
A portfolio is a nice collection of your best work. Don’t ever throw anything away because one day it will come in handy.

To become the cream of the crop you must execute.
If you’ve ever heard the phrase, “you’re only as good as your last sale” it’s probably because the world plays by this unwritten rule. You need to produce, every time period. Every client is different and last weeks accomplishments will not carry you into the next week.

If you make a commitment stick to it.
This is one lesson learned the hard way. It is such a let down to yourself and others, when you make commitments and do not follow through. No one will be mad if you say no. Actually you leave the door open for someone who will come through in the long run.

Last but not least be yourself!
This is more from a personal stance, than a professional one. This was something I struggled with; trying to fit round molds that sometimes we’re impossible to squeeze into as a square peg. Be yourself and find your own style. Personal happiness effects professional growth.

“Blog action day is an annual event held every October 15 that unites the world’s bloggers in posting about the same issue on the same day with the aim of sparking discussion around an issue of global importance.” The topic this year is climate change. Find out more at www.blogactionday.org


As a single female balancing work, school, fashion, hair and just life in general it’s difficult to factor in things like the world’s climate change, but when I stop to think about maybe we should. Every human on this planet will leave an imprint so if you’re going to make one, why not let it be a positive one.

Suggestions involving manual labor or gross things like recycling compost just don't fit in my life style so we’ll leave them to professionals ;-). Here are a few things that I’m incorporating into my daily routine that will hopefully make a difference.

Washing clothes in cold water conserves electricity. If I’m feeling ambitious I’ll hang them out to dry instead of using the dryer…. Who doesn’t love that sun kissed feel anyway.



My dream car is a Range Rover, but this gas guzzling beauty isn't an eco-friendly choice, instead I’m settling for the Cayenne Porsche, the hybrid of course.



Lastly, I’m trying websites like Swapstyle.com and thrift stores to get fresh looks, instead of department store buys.



Overall, I'm realizing that it's the small things that count. Who knows one day I may eventually progress to recycling at home.

Happy Blog Action Day Everyone!!!

The comeback of prime time TV drama series’ “90210”and “Melrose Place”, paired with the Public Relation Student Society of America (PRSSA) gave way to the idea that allowed our Senior PR Campaigns class a unique opportunity. Design a campaign using your Public Relation skills to promote the comeback of two of TVs nationally recognized shows “90210”and “Melrose Place”.

With a unique group we went to work looking for an idea that would tie the two shows together, as well as the campaign to the campus. “What’s your Scandal?” a murder mystery dinner was our angle, to which each group member’s contribution was essential.

The script for the mystery was written to mirror the shows we promoted and the main characters were derived from the actual shows characters. On the day of the event, every guest was given a confidential packet that included their characters profile and a personality description among other essentials. Between dinner courses the guest were given clues to help the audience unveil the plot. By the end of the night everyone was completely involved in the story line, while connecting and learning about the “90210”and “Melrose Place” characters. As an incentive the person to correctly identify the killer, the weapon, and the motive won a gift card to a popular coffee house in town.

Over all, the campaign by our measure of success went off without a hitch. This opportunity was unique and gave me a direct look at the budgeting, crisis management and organization skills associated with executing such a campaign.

… And now we wait to see what the CW thinks of our results!!

Generally I like to consider myself a person of high moral standing. I have a strong conscience that prevents me from making a ton of mistakes. My family never discussed ethics, but morals were a common topic. I’m sure one can wiki or Google the definitions of both ethics and morals and would feel generally that they walk hand and hand; I however do not believe they do. Personally I believe ethics is a practice beginning with good morals, I say that not to imply that someone corrupt morally could never grasp the concept of ethics, but I do believe having good morals makes that transition and decision making process easier.

Now throw in the term Business and you have three concepts circling, which vary from institution to institution, as well as from person to person. I argue that business and ethics are not friendly concepts, so how do I tie these vague concepts together; by being responsible for my own actions. I would love to save every corporation from the corrupt practices that produced The Enron’s of the world, but I can only be responsible for my own wrong doings. Change starts from within, not just in business but in life I hold myself to higher standard. In the broad scheme of things, Yasmiene will auction the next slot on my resume to the highest bidder, just as long as I can look at myself in the mirror everyday…. And that’s how I find the balance, by only choosing decision that I can live with later.

So it’s officially my last semester here at GCSU, and on top of my everyday class work I’m preparing my self mentally and wardrobe wise, to return back to the work force. Goodbye sweatpants and free t-shirts, hello internet job boards and headhunters.

Typically I would never fear returning to the workplace, but in this market I’m a bit concerned. Here are something’s I’m doing to stay ahead. If you have any tips please feel free to add them.

Perfecting my resume, its important that the first impression that employers have of me is a strong one. This will essentially get my foot in the door.

Building my online portfolio. It’s no secret that the convenience of the internet makes life easier, my online portfolio will allow potential employers to access more information, writing samples, design samples and references with two clicks.

Lastly, I’m leaving I’m keeping a positive attitude. I don’t really need every job in a bad market, I just need one! “People become really quite remarkable when they start thinking that they can do things. When they believe in themselves they have the first secret of success.” ~Norman Vincent Peale

Dave Fleet’s article, “14 Key Skills & Attributes for New Public Relations Professionals” outlines some key components that one must possess to stay current in the public relations field. As a student learning the Public Relations trade, I found that I identify with all of the items on that list in one way or another.

My public relations experience thus far allowed me to look at Fleets’ list and feel confident in my abilities. I can say without hesitation that my communication skills, proactiveness, work ethic and social networking skills will land me my next job. They are without doubt, invaluable qualities that I feel confident with. Coming to the table I offer a ton of experience, strong professional references and a work ethic that put me in a corner office at age twenty-four. When paired with my degree I feel that I will a strong candidate for any company that is looking for these traits.

School however has refined my attention to detail, writing and media relations. Of course there is and always will be so much more to learn; if I could pick one topic to develop, employee law stands out in my mind. As technology continues to expand so does room to improve our selected fields, so Im always ready to learn more about social media.

Joining the Mass Communication department was a difficult transition for me. As a transfer student, I was eager and excited about coming to a new school but didn’t apply to the Mass Communication program right away. I wish I knew the concentrations are two year programs no matter how you slice it. To avoid the same mistake, you should learn early how to plan effectively. Look at the courses listed and see how they line up with your degree plan.

So here are some tips that I think are invaluable:

Make sure you leave room for error, internships, practicum’s, or possibly a Disney Internship. All of these elements can easily put you a semester behind.

If you can take classes over the summer do so; it’s a great way to get ahead. Many classes conflict time wise with each other and this is an excellent way to solve that problem.

Be proactive while degree planning; which goes a lot further than picking up the green concentration planning sheet.

Form a working relationship with your adviser so your not afraid to ask questions. They’re here to help.

I love love love my Public Relations experience and I’m glad I’m progressing with an amazing group of gals and guy ;-), but learn from my mistakes and save yourself a year.

In essence, I’m trying to say, learn the curriculum it will help you in the long run.

This summer I interned for OfficeMax in Charlotte, NC. This was an overall great experience. I broadened my network in the Charlotte area by meeting new connections and added a reference to my resume regarding my work ethic. The internship started off very slow, but by the second week I felt as though I was one of the employees.

OfficeMax used my experience and did not hesitate to trust me with projects.
My internship responsibilities consisted of basic office duties ie: answering calls, faxes and mail correspondence. I was also responsible for updating the Paid Time Office (PTO) spread sheet, employment verification, resume rating, and research during the audit.

I was allowed to sit in during internal interviews for an available Lead Position in Atlanta, GA. The first round of interviews were held via conference call and I got an interesting prospective on what potential employers are looking for. I rated the candidates using OfficeMax’s rubric for lack of a better word, and I entered all of the scores and other data into Excel creating a database for the highest rated candidates. I also completed many office day-to-day tasks. My inbox was always full with documents to enter, process and file. I worked with the planning committee to coordinate office birthday celebrations and a team of new evacuation leaders.

My large project was working on the Servant Management, Ethics, and Unions training course that I help put together and execute. I had the opportunity to assist in the creation and presentation of a training course, which was later presented to the 1st and 2nd shift manager in the district nine area of Charlotte. Office max has taken a unique stance on unions; they are training management on exactly what unions are, as many employers are still and in the dark as to how they serve. OfficeMax is taking an aggressive stance towards union. The thought behind this is that they as a company trust that their managers are doing the right thing and should not be scared of the union.

This is was my first time working with a public company with a union and it changes the nature of the HR position, because the employees have someone who works somewhat in the same capacity that we do. The most valuable asset I gained from working at this internship was the usage of SAP. It’s an HR software program that is used by many companies. It is a valuable addition to my resume and although I do not feel that I am an expert using it, I can navigate throughout the problem with minimal trouble.

Overall I learned how to work SAP, interview and work within a team with minimal supervision, auditing what it is and why it’s needed as well as a better working understanding of the field that I have chose as my career path. A position opened up in the Accounts Payable field and I was asked by my supervisor to apply, and she offered to put in a good word. It is awesome that the staff I worked for wants to keep me around, unfortunately the application deadline is August 31st and I will be back in school, but I will keep them in mind come December and they promised to do the same in return. A great internship experience I’m glad I got to work here and I am more confident than ever that Human Resources is where I want to be.

With so many different forms of public relations, it’s hard to describe what a PR practitioner does in a sentence. Between crisis management, event planning and press releases it’s hard to see how this all ties together as Public Relations, but it does.

This semester I planned the Giving Tree Award ceremony, which is sponsored by Georgia College & State Universities Give Center. The Giving Tree award is presented on Earth Day an individual on that has left an impact on the campus. The Give Center plants a tree dedicated to this person, which is a huge legacy to leave on a campus, or as Kendall Stiles “Give Center Director, calls it “The GCSU Lifetime achievement award”.

The following video is the grand finale of PR in action, after all of the crisis management, event planning and press releases.

The 11th Annual GCSU Athletic Auction planned by none other than my PR Administration class, took place April 11th, 2009. At first the auction seemed like the project that I would love to hate the entire semester, but to my surprise turned into the project I looked forward to working on with my class every Wednesday afternoon.
In December PR Admin prepared for the pitches that would blossom into the Athletic Auction theme come game day. Just the creativity of the class collectively made it almost impossible to select one groups pitch, so the powers that be pulled the best from every presentation, the Account Executives were selected and the work started.
With all of my classmates the working the assignments flew by and so time because the Auction had arrived much sooner than my mental calendar estimated. During the actual event, I worked with the photographer, making people smile, and encouraged everyone to take pictures, which was great because it fit my personality. For the second half of the event I served as a runner for the Auctioneer. What I learned most during the Auction and its planning phases is that sometimes the original vision will change and that’s okay. As long as the client is happy, you may just have to tweak a couple of your own ideas because after all it is the clients event, and sometimes I have a hard time separating my ideas from that fact.
In the end, the auction was a complete success, with an estimated (don’t quote me) $40,000 raised. I really do feel that his team is just a good fit, everyone has such diverse talents that we all contribute and are willing to go the extra mile, and it shows. PR Admin should start an event planning company together because I would work/for with any of these dolls/guy any day.

It is becoming more difficult to find a job in today’s economy. Using connections is an excellent inside track and social media sites can broaden that pool of resources. The trick is using them to your advantage. This is what I’ve discovered, there is a world of networking out there, but there is right in front of me. It’s fun to converse with friends and catch up with old high school friends online, but I can also meet new people, people in my field and who I otherwise could not have met. Oh how the internet makes a small world, even smaller.

There are bloggers and tweeters dedicated to posting the latest internship and position available from New York to Los Angeles, that have been instrumental in my search for an internship. I feel like I have an edge, and everyday new people befriend me online, one of them will have just the tip I’m looking for.

So the saying goes, “it’s not what you know it’s who you know”, well I want to know everyone. So in an effort to take my own advise, below you will find my new goals.

My Goals This Week

• Find 10 new connections.
• Connect with the new connections (its not enough just to have them saved as friends).
• Send my new friends a message.