The Secret to Success… Revealed / June 3, 2016 by Jasmine Tate

The information and resources available online through Google, Linked In and various other sites are limitless. In addition to applying for every position I’ve found that I’m qualified for and matches my interests in the past few weeks, I’ve also reached out to professionals who currently have the position of my dreams.

“Your first job won’t be your dream job.”

I’ve heard it several times and different ways. Thankfully, as I’ve mentioned before public relations professionals are extremely generous when it comes to helping others achieve success, especially aspiring practitioners. Although your first position of your career may not be your "dream job," it should be a stepping stone to help you attain it.

Throughout the last five years I’ve attended more than a dozen conferences, heard from various industry leaders and networked with the best of the best. Beyond proficiency in writing and public relations skills, the advice given by most successful practitioners is similar.

1. Pursue your passion and find ways to incorporate it into everything you do.

2. Take advantage of opportunities to get involved.

3. Build your résumé and portfolio with quality demonstrations of experience beyond the classroom.

4. Develop a solid network with meaningful, “mutually beneficial” relationships.

5. Be genuine and authentic in who you are and the skills you have to offer.

I have recently spoken with community relations directors for various professional sports teams. After conversations via email and phone calls, I finally get it. I have unlocked the big secret I’ve been searching…

And what I’ve found is that there is no secret. Most insights I gained were no different from things I’ve heard throughout my academic career from peers, professors and professionals alike. As a believer I had to realize that when you take advantage of people, resources and words of wisdom and do everything you can to reach success, it is sometimes a matter of practicing patience for God to deliver on His promises and reveal His will for your life.

So, if you’re like me constantly seeking “the big secret.” You can stop now, because there isn’t one. If you disagree, please share. If there’s something I’m missing, I would love to know what it is. Enlighten me. Share below.

XX,

Jasmine C. Tate

Save the SUMMER / May 26, 2016 by Jasmine Tate

High temperatures, sandals and open snowball stands are all signs of summer time. Although it’s easy to spend the entire season catching up on sun, sleep and Scandal, let’s choose to be productive, too. As I seek and apply for job opportunities and prepare for the summer special of Hit The Floor, I’m making a conscious effort to “Save the Summer.”

For me, this starts with a schedule because “time flies when you’re having fun,” right?

Creating a schedule will ensure success in achieving goals this summer. Start with the date of the first day of classes or an important event such as the PRSSA National Conference/ PRSA International Conference.

Next, update professional documents. I’m sure your Linked In Profile could use a boost. Change your headline, adjust dates or enhance your summary. Review your portfolio, add projects from the end of the year or remove outdated work samples.

Master a new skill. With the growth of the public relations industry and expectations of multi-talented candidates, you can never know too much. Design a PRSSA invitation to outside disciplines, explore videography or view a free PRSA webinar.

Maximize opportunities to gain experience or get involved. View the event calendars of local professional organizations such as the Public Relations Student Society of America, Public Relations Association of Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, etc. Volunteer for upcoming events such as back-to-school drives or summer socials.

Employ old and new skills you’ve gained. Plan a social for PRSSA members who are still in town or high school classmates you haven’t seen since graduation. Write for Progressions or Forum or start a personal blog.

Finally, Don’t let the summer pass you by without realizing that public relations practitioners, and aspiring professionals, are life-long learners. Read a book or blog; research professionals you may meet at the national conference, and don’t forget to rest.

Save the summer, but enjoy it, too.

What are your summer plans? Are there any activities, events books or blogs you would recommend to avoid wasting time and talent this summer? Share below.

XX,

Jasmine C. Tate

Fast Forward to a Trip Down Memory Lane / May 19, 2016 by Jasmine Tate

One day I’ll take a trip down memory lane. I’ll go back to my time at The University of Southern Mississippi and reminisce on unforgettable moments. I’ll jump for joy because I scored. I earned a Master of Science in Public Relations at 23 years old and gained a lifelong friend in the process. I’ll show gratitude to Hayley, Dr. Blackwell, my PRSSA friends, classmates and all who contributed to my success.

I’ll think about the long nights, books and research papers. I’ll laugh at the delirium Hayley and I had to overcome while studying for comps and how excited we were when we received big news that we passed. I’ll cherish the love we share for public relations, service, sweets, adventure, USM and most importantly our Lord and Savior.

I’ll know that USM played a major role in the person and professional I am on that day and that I’m always welcome home to The Rock.

Today and forever more: I’m a USM Alumna, and a proud member of the Class of 2016. I walk away from the university with my head held high because I am prepared and ready to soar.

Special thanks to D’Anthony Jackson for the stories, the laughs, the sweat and these awesome shots that will keep my special memories alive and live through social media, home galleries, office shelves and Google Drive. I hope you enjoyed.

XX,

Jasmine C. Tate

Roarin' & Soarin' To The Top / May 13, 2016 by Jasmine Tate

We cannot move forward without remembering where we came from. Although I LOVE USM… and screaming “To The Top,” I continuously pay tribute to “Our Southeastern.”

“And love thee, Alma Mater, through all eternity…”

These words close the Southeastern Louisiana University Alma Mater, and after receiving my bachelor’s degree, I felt proud to sing with my peers on graduation day. As I turned my class ring, symbolic of my readiness to face the world, I also turned the page to a new chapter of my life.

Southeastern Louisiana University Fall Class of 2014. Photo by Jackie Miller-Wilson. — Southeastern Louisiana University Fall Class of 2014. Photo by Jackie Miller-Wilson.

My journey at Southern Miss presented many challenges, gifts and opportunities. I am beyond grateful for everything I’ve gained during my academic career and look forward to my future as a professional.

As I prepare for my commencement ceremony, I reflect on my favorite elements of The University of Southern Mississippi and life as a Golden Eagle.

“S. OU. THERN. Southern Mississippi. USM!”

The PRIDE that you feel when you enter Golden Eagle Territory is breathtaking. No matter where you go or what you do, Southern Miss Pride is right there with you.

It wasn’t until I joined the USM family that I realized what it means to celebrate and embrace DIVERSITY. During my time at the university, I never felt like a minority, or outsider, but always gained a sense of belonging as a member of a unique, diverse, multicultural family from many states, countries and walks of life.

From the entrance of the main CAMPUS to the home of The Rock, a visit to USM takes you straight “To the Top." Once you’re there, you just may get hooked, but life as a Golden Eagle is such a good look. There are bridges, lakes, statues and more. Look around when you stroll as the Eagles soar. The USM campus is something to see, the scenery eases studies to earn that degree.

I’m a #LionForLife and happy to be a Golden Eagle. I’m blessed as can be. As I sing the words, reminisce and take flight, I’ll cherish USM for the rest of my life.

Congratulations to the class of ‘16. Let’s take off together and achieve our dreams.