The Strategy Behind ShowBiz Recap

By: Emily King 
Lights, camera, action…

It wouldn’t happen without the people behind the scenes. Three PRKent alumni joined PRSSA Kent for our entertainment meeting this semester. The guests talked about their path into the entertainment industry, what sets them apart from others and advice for students on their college journey. 

While learning to be a PR practitioner, we learn many different industry skills. Jenna Lilak, PRKent 2009 graduate and the current Activation Manager of the Lifestyle Division at Condé Nast, talked about this.

“I thought it was my weakness … a jack of all trades and a master of none,” Lilak said. “It took me a long time to realize I am a jack of all trades and a master of many.” 

As a PR professional in the field, Lilak talked about how much tasks can range. Lilak mentioned that everything she has learned about PR impacts her daily work life. 

“Everything I learned in PR, is applied in my day-to-day life,” Lilak said. “Client management, time management and crisis management.”

Being a young professional can bring stress in the big career world. Megan Hermensky, PRKent graduate of 2017, marketing manager at Live Nation, says stop apologizing. 

“I was apologizing for all kinds of things all the time, even things that weren't the biggest deal,” Hermansky said. 

Hermensky said we need to learn to rephrase and not apologize for everything. Rephrase by saying, “Thank you so much for catching that,” and be more confident. “As a young professional, it’s okay to not be sorry all the time,” Hermensky said. 

Every professor or professional has stressed the importance of networking to us at one time or another. Bryan Webb, Radio Producer for Apple Music Country, agrees.

“Don’t be afraid to reach out and network with someone even if you don’t know them,” Webb said.

Webb moved to Nashville in the hope to work in country music while only knowing one person in Nashville. He put his research and networking skills to work which helped land him his position at Apple Music Country.

“I reached out to people at companies that I thought sounded like they had interesting jobs just to learn about them,” Webb said. 

Although we love in-person meetings, virtual meetings allow us to meet and talk with great professionals from all over. It was inspiring hearing from PRKent alumni. It gives a sense of hope for the future. We can grow just as much as these three alumni have.