When History Comes Alive: Experiencing Democracy Beyond the Classroom

Written by: Sofia McClintock

The Klein GO trip, “Foundations of Democracy: Understanding the Past to Change the Future,” was created with the idea that in order for us to shape the future, we must first understand the past. From how power, protest and propaganda influence the organization of the United States to how the media shapes public perception. For me, it brought those ideas to life in ways I haven’t experienced in person before. Before traveling to Washington D.C., my understanding of democracy existed mostly in textbooks, news articles and political campaigns, but having the experience to learn in the heart of democracy turned everything I already knew into something real and human.

My visit to the National Museum of American History brought textbook stories to life. The exhibits about protests, social movements and civil rights campaigns highlighted how ordinary citizens shape policy and public consciousness. Seeing photographs, letters and artifacts from movements made concepts like social change and civic engagement feel immediate and real. My studies of power, media and advocacy were connected to the lived experiences of real people who fought for change.

As I walked through the National Archives, I came face-to-face with the original Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. The history of this nation and what makes it was quite literally in front of me--it was nothing like seeing it in a textbook. These documents aren’t just words and signatures, but the foundation of historical struggles, compromise and civic action. It was a huge reminder for me that democracy is not fixed, but it's built, contested, and something that is constantly evolving.

One moment that truly taught me so much about democracy was getting the opportunity to sit down with staffers from Senator McCormick and Fetterman’s office in the Senate. Engaging with two very different political perspectives consecutively forced me to slow down and reconsider how quickly I form a judgement. Listening to my classmates’ questions, all shaped by their own background, experiences and beliefs, reminded me that democracy isn’t a harmonious agreement, but rather a meaningful engagement. It’s about being able to understand both political parties, even if you don’t agree.

Going from learning about democracy all my life in a classroom to truly getting to observe it in Washington D.C. completely reshaped how I think about learning. Concepts about propaganda, power and engagement became embodied lessons. I saw the impact of civic action, the importance of conversation and the responsibility that comes with being a member of the democratic system. Theory is always necessary, but through experiences is when knowledge can truly sink in.

After returning home, I learned not only facts, but I now carry a renewed sense of perspective. Seeing history come alive in D.C. reminded me that learning is the most powerful when it goes beyond the textbooks and into the real world. Democracy is something that is living and constantly evolving, and it needs attention and participation. The state of American democracy relies on the knowledge of American citizens. The best way to grasp democracy and fully understand it, so we can allow it to continue to exist, is to experience it.

Finding My Place in PR After Journalism

Early in my Introduction to Public Relations course, I was taught that nothing said to a journalist is off the record. This statement conflicted with my experience writing for newspapers. My journalism professors and editors commanded that “off the record” is a magical eraser. Nothing related to the topic they referenced could be included in the final article.  

This disconnect was the first I spotted between journalism and PR. My career mentor recommended that I investigate PR as a career path because I’m good at writing and staying calm under pressure. At the time, my understanding of PR was limited to public apologies and stunts. Since finding opportunities to write feature stories as a transfer student was tricky, I decided to consider PR. I’ve realized that journalism and PR are not opposites, but they are different. 

How PR and Journalism Differ 

PR is client-driven, and journalism is driven by public interest. News publications act as watchdogs, providing accurate depictions of situations with data and interviews. Skilled PR practitioners shape public opinion with data.  

Though PR practitioners act as internal spokespeople for the public, the execution of their campaigns is monitored and limited by a client. As a public service, journalism is protected by the First Amendment. Restricting journalism through corporate or government action is unethical and illegal. 

PR practitioners are chameleons. They study their clients and speak in their voices. PR practitioners promote purposefully. The best campaigns influence public opinion by building trust.  

As a journalist, I was taught to write without bias. Journalists may start conversations, but PR practitioners guide them. Traditionally, journalists observe and report facts. In conversations with PR practitioners and professors, I’ve learned the value of strategic messaging. 

The Skills That Carry Over 

In my PR coursework, I expanded my perception of research to include media monitoring and social listening. I used these methods to write articles, but I didn’t know they had a name. Without evidence-based research, both professions lose credibility. Trust is tricky to repair once broken.  

Interviews, events, and viral social media videos could inspire a story. Staying watchful and open-minded prepares journalists and PR practitioners to take advantage of opportunities. If both occupations succeed in communicating value to their public (a.k.a. “newsworthiness”), then audiences will return to hear more. Both industries follow AP style to ensure consistency during collaboration. Both occupations adhere to tight deadlines and keep their composure during crises.  

Diversity of thought matters. Campaigns fall flat when diverse groups are excluded from the process. Articles lose credibility if only one voice is elevated. Though data remains supreme in both, people’s voices shine through and make stories emotionally resonant.  

Bridging the Gap 

As a journalist, I was taught to use my curiosity and cynicism to search for truth. In PR, I use my skills to anticipate audience perception and prepare a response. I’ve learned that communicating value at every touchpoint, or with every article, cultivates long-term relationships. The publications and campaigns that survive fulfill their audience’s desire for authenticity and truth. 

PR and journalism are interconnected. Both are driven by ethics and research. I’m still learning the differences and how I can adapt. PRSSA has been a great resource to fill in the gaps. I’m looking forward to what else this industry has to teach me. 

About the Author 

Brianna Mack transferred to Temple University after her former school, Cabrini University, closed. While at Cabrini, she wrote for the student-run newspaper and programmed the campus radio station. She earned a Keystone Media Award and a Pinnacle College Media Award for her first album review. She studies Audio and Live Entertainment at Temple and is on staff at WHIP Radio. Brianna joined PRSSA in the Fall 2025 semester and will graduate in May 2026. 

Mic Drop Takeaways: Lessons from Entertainment PR Professionals

This past weekend, Temple PRSSA hosted the 2026 PRSSA Mid- Atlantic District Conference Mic Drop: PR in Entertainment, uniting students and professionals for a deep dive into entertainment public relations. A clear message echoed throughout: success in entertainment PR requires consistency, confidence and genuine connections. 

Here are some of my biggest takeaways from three standout sessions: 

PRSSA to PRSA: Building Your Career Beyond College

This session covered the transition from PRSSA to PRSA and professional growth after graduation. The discussion centered on networking and staying engaged after college, which is very relevant for us seniors.

The panel encouraged attending PRSA events, joining the New Pros program, and seeking informal learning opportunities, such as brunch-and-learns, to stay connected and keep learning.

Melina O’Neal shared a piece of advice that stuck with me:

“Don’t underestimate your chances.”

This mindset is crucial for job applications and life after graduation. The panel also stressed staying visible on LinkedIn, at events and through your portfolio.

Even without a full-time role, there are still ways to grow:

• Start a blog

• Practice graphic design

• Create content consistently

Hector Nuñez reinforced the importance of being intentional with your growth:

“Not everyone is your target audience…become your own dream job.”

Ultimately, this session underscored that growth requires daily, active effort.

Inside Live Nation: Understanding the Fan First

In this session, Vincent Angiolillo of Live Nation offered an inside look at the fast-paced, strategic world of entertainment marketing.

Staying ahead of trends is vital, but true entertainment PR success centers on understanding and connecting with fans.

Know how fans engage, what motivates them and how they shape the community, and the fan connection will drive success.

• Being in the environment

• Understanding the “language” of the audience

Without immersion in the space, you risk missing insights that could shape campaigns.

At the end of the day, one goal stands above everything else:

The ultimate goal is to engage audiences, sell tickets, fill the room and to refine strategies by measuring what works.

Philly PR Girl: Betting on Yourself

In this session, Kate Marlys Rodgers, founder of Philly PR Girl, discussed building her agency and what it takes to succeed as a PR entrepreneur.

Her story highlighted the reality of taking risks:

She left a stable job to build her own business, navigating challenges and building confidence. She shared that building a business requires risk-taking, persistence and self-advocacy.

• Understand that success takes time.

One quote that perfectly captured her mindset:

“Philly-based, not bound.”

Kate emphasized that personal branding matters just as much as client work. Professional visibility is essential in integrated PR and influencer marketing.

Another core takeaway:

It calls for consistency, creativity and genuine passion.

Final Thoughts

Across all three sessions, a few themes stood out:

• Put yourself out there and build connections

• Stay consistent in developing your skills

• Be confident in your value and your path

Mic Drop wasn’t just about learning; it was about gaining clarity. Mic Drop provided not only learning experiences, but also clarity on key ingredients of success in entertainment PR, as a reminder that growth is ongoing, opportunities are everywhere and the future of PR is what we make of it.  

Written by: Emma Sexauer, Director of Digital Communications. Feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn!