Clarissa Ford (’18), Account Coordinator on the Health and Beauty team at Hunter Public Relations, is proof that hard work, dedication and making the most out of your opportunities will lead you to achieving your dreams. A Temple PRSSA member from day one, turned PRowl Firm Director, Ford actively sought out new opportunities to grow as a student, young professional and as a person.
Ford’s story, like many of ours, started freshman year. As an eager student that knew joining an organization would help her get involved in the community and make friends, she attended Temple Fest in search for a group. She noticed the Temple PRSSA table on Liacouras Walk and from then on was at every Tuesday meeting.
Having started out as a journalism major, Ford immediately sensed a passion and camaraderie from other members and declared a PR minor. Taking advantage of the Temple PRSSA mentorship program, it was her mentor that helped Ford redefine her career goals. It was during her sophomore year when Ford officially changed her major to PR. It was the time spent with Temple PRSSA that redirected the entire course of her college and professional career.
It wasn’t long before Ford took on more leadership roles within both Temple PRSSA and PRowl Public Relations, Temple’s student-run public relations firm. Having served as the Director of Mentorship during her junior year, Ford was able to meet many members of PRSSA, having the opportunity to see them grow during their academic and professional careers.
Having served as an Account Associate within PRowl, quickly moving up as a Junior Account Executive and Account Executive, Ford was selected to lead the firm as the Firm Director during her senior year. “I’m eternally grateful for my involvement in the firm because it helped me make a difference on campus, follow my passion of helping others and create long-lasting friendships,” Ford stated.
Ford emphasized that for her, learning never stops. In college, she used to think of her courses as a challenge to better herself and build a skillset, but that didn’t stop for her after graduation. She continuously seeks out opportunities to give herself a competitive edge in her career.
Since graduating from Temple, Ford has been working at Hunter Public Relations, a consumer agency located in New York City where she currently works on the Health and Beauty team. Ford also serves on the Student Outreach and Intern Committee, allowing her to continue her passion of mentoring students.
This blog post was written by William Careri, General Body Member.