Down with Debt

How would you like $20,000 toward your student loans?

According to CNN Money, the average student loan debt is $30,000  for graduates of Pennsylvania Universities.

In an effort to encourage students to start saving money and pay back their student debt faster, MassMutual Financial Group introduced their new Facebook campaign, “Down with Debt” which will reward one recent graduate with $20,000 toward their student loans.

"MassMutual recognizes that new graduates and young professionals in today’s world face big financial challenges," said Tara Reynolds, MassMutual's corporate vice president. "As a result, we created 'Down with Debt' to help people learn about effective ways to conquer their loans and take smart first steps in building a secure financial future."

MassMutual intends on using the Facebook campaign as an opportunity to educate a younger demographic on their monetary future.

As an almost grad this was a very attractive campaign. I do not know much about finances; 401 K’s, various CD packages and low-high mutual funds all seem like a foreign language. So as someone who is always looking for a viable resource for pretty much everything from Philly’s best restaurants to thrifts stores, this is a great opportunity to get ahead on my finances. 

Twitter + Video = PR Pro Heaven

For years now, Twitter has been a go to platform and service for PR professionals. It took a while, but we managed to master the 140 character press release, the Twitter media list, and making all of our tweets retweetable. But now, Twitter has upped the ante once again and this time it seems they have PR pros in mind!

Last Thursday, January 24th, Twitter released a new mobile app service called The Vine. Available for both iPhone and iPod touch, The Vine allows users to record 6 second videos to share on Twitter, Facebook, and The Vine platform. Imagine, a timeline that will now be filled with text, photos, and video! Gone are the days where you would have to link to a video in hopes that your follower's curiosity would be sparked enough to click. Now, you can share your video messages easily and conveniently. To see The Vine app in action, visit Twitter's Official Blog here.

The integration of The Vine into Twitter is definitely a point in favor of PR, but can also present some challenges and struggles in the beginning. However, like the 140 character press release, we PR pros will also master the 6 second shared video. Here are a few ways you can create 6 seconds of video genius:

• Promotional Videos: If your client is launching a new product, website, or other service, send your followers a teaser of things to come by posting a short promo video.
• Sneak Peaks: Everyone loves to find out what's going on behind the scenes. Take some quick footage of the production process of your client's latest project and share it with your fans!
• Recaps: Instead of posting quotes from a speaker, why not share the actual video of them speaking? This is bound to be much more interactive and gain a higher response.

These are just a few ways to implement The Vine's services, of course the possibilites are endless. Have you heard of The Vine, and will you use it? Let us know, and share your creations on Twitter with @PRowlPR!

Deadly Fire in Brazil

Firefighters at the scene of Kiss night club Agencia RBS/AFP/Getty Images

I woke up this morning to the news that there was a devastating fire early this morning at a night club in Brazil. Almost 250 people have been reported dead so far. The suspected cause is sparks stemming from a pyrotechnic performance at the night club. Allegedly, some of the emergency exits were locked, preventing patrons from being able to escape, once the fire ignited and spread within seconds. However, many lay blame to asphyxiation caused by the fire. As a result of a lack of oxygen, people became confused and disoriented in a struggle to find an exit. 50 people were found in the club's bathroom, which was confused for an exit.

Kiss, the night club where the fire erupted is a popular party destination for college kids in Santa Maria. 300-500 people were inside the club at the time of the fire making it difficult for emergency personnel to get inside. The emergency services were commended for their quick response.

The night club fire is set to have the highest death toll from a fire since 2000. It is yet to be seen who will be liable for the accident; the band who launched the pyrotechnics, or the scene of the fire, Kiss.

What’s Bigger than the Super Bowl?

It’s that time of year again- the eagerly anticipated and most watched program on television is just around the corner. There will be jerseys, face painting, greasy food, and of course beer flying off the shelves over the next several days. Getting the hints? Yes, I am in fact talking about Super Bowl XLVII. I have clearly stated the obvious about the upcoming game, but there is much more that goes into the big day than one may realize. 

Like every year, corporations and businesses drop an extraordinary amount of money to advertise during the game. These commercials are no joke, racking in nearly $4 million each for a measly 30 seconds. Because the advertisements have become nearly bigger than the game itself, the Super Bowl is a major platform for PR and marketing pros to catch their target audience.

Lisa Zlotnick, Lippe Taylor‘s VP of media said, “[This] is an opportunity for PR. The media wants to tell this story. The key is to think of creative ways to incorporate your clients into one of the biggest nights of the year and get your brands out there.” PR pros disect the Super Bowl from every angle to determine ways to reach the target audience. They will take the teams playing into account, the psychographics of their fans, they will consider gender, and all age groups watching. The Super Bowl is designed to incorporate something that fits all niches for viewers; competition, humor, music, technological advancements, and graphic design elements. All of these areas of interest are addressed and it's what makes for the vast audience that tunes in. 

The commercials are there to spark creativity, individuality, and of course conversation about the brand. The third-party credibility part follows, and that is when PR steps in. So, who’s going to be watching? I know I’m not missing Beyonce’s performance… 

This guest blog post was written by PRowl Public Relations staff member Nicole Leo.

What I have learned from PRowl

This time last year, I received an email from Niki Ianni telling me I was officially hired to be part of PRowl Public Relations and I cried and called my parents immediately. I was so excited to be part of something so incredible and to start my career as a young PR student. After a year with PRowl, I am headed to Paris to study abroad and am sad to be leaving. Following an incredible year, filled with track changes, emails, presentations and the building of incredible relationships, PRowl has taught me two important skills that will help me immensely when I study abroad.

1. Networking- As I head to Paris, I do not know ANYONE. I am not going through Temple University so I am going to a foreign country, alone. Luckily, PRowl has taught me the importance of networking and communication with others. After multiple networking events, I have learned that is it not that scary to introduce yourself to someone, carry a conversation and build a relationship. I will use this very important skill and my French skills to meet new people and make lasting relationships like the ones I have made in PRowl.

2. It is OK to make mistakes- The first assignment I sent to my account executive came back completely red, filled with track changes and comments.  When I called my mentor about the track changes, she told me not to worry, they were not there to deter me but rather to help me improve. All of the edits and constructive criticism I received helped me develop as a writer, PR student and a person. As I head to Paris, I have five semesters of college French in my head but I know I will freeze at points and instead of saying “bonjour” say “hey”, but that is OK. PRowl has taught me that mistakes are nothing to be ashamed of; they are a learning device to help you in the future.

As I leave one incredible experience for another, I think back to one year ago and how I have developed with the help of PRowl Public Relations. I have learned important skills about PR, life and myself and I feel more prepared than ever to take these skills abroad and succeed!

This guest blog post was written by PRowl Public Relations staff member Brianna Rooney.

Overwhelmed? Overcome it!

For most of us college students, today marks the end of our first week back on campus. We still haven't mastered our schedules, are most definitely sleep deprived and still have textbooks to purchase. It all can seem, well - a bit overwhelming. Stress and time management are common themes in the world of academia. It is always beneficial, instead of diving in head first, to step back and look at what you can do to help yourself before the semester truly begins.

Here are some things you can do to get yourself organized, relaxed and ready to bring on the spring semester!

1. Schedule your day, down to the hour - Having everything you need to accomplish written down on a schedule or in a planner will help you to procrastinate less and focus more.

2. Take your time - Quality is better than quantity. Don't rush small assignments in the beginning of the semester because that will become a habit all semester long. Make sure you give yourself enough time to produce quality work.

3. Don't take more on than you can handle - Think you can handle 18 credits, a part time job, an internship AND a social life? It will never happen. Make sure your plate isn't too full this semester so you can focus better.

Meet PRowl's Newest Members

PRowl is pleased to hire nine new members for their 2013 semester. Read below and get to know our new members!

Jess Mancuso

Jess is a sophomore at Temple University with a major in Public Relations and a minor in General Business Studies.  Jess loves public relations and is very excited to enhance her experience in the industry by working for PRowl. Jess is actively involved with many different activities on campus such as her sorority, alpha epsilon phi, club tennis, Whip radio and Jewish life on campus. Jess is very excited to work with many talented individuals here at PRowl. 

Jaime Martorana

Jaime is a sophomore studying Strategic Communications and General Business Studies through the Fox School of Business. Jaime thrives in the city of Philadelphia and

wouldn't want to live anywhere else. She enjoys traveling and a good book.  Jaime couldn't be happier to join the PRowl Public Relations team!

Kelly Dougherty

Kelly is a sophomore double majoring in Strategic Communications and BTMM. She is originally from Wilkes- Barre PA, but right now loving Philadelphia! Kelly loves sports and hopes to pursue a career sports public relations. Kelly enjoys dancing and can bust a move whenever wherever!

Chris Krochak

Chris is a 20-year-old student at Temple University originally from Northeast Philadelphia. While Chris’ school studies demonstrate his love for being an effective communicator, he enjoys the simple things in life. Chris is an avid musician and hockey fan. Music is the air Chris breathes when he has free time, and just like he does with his music, Chris tries to always learn and improve in whatever he is doing in his life.

Chris Covone

Chris, a native to Philadelphia, is a sophomore Strategic Communications major with a concentration in Public Relations at Temple University.  He currently works as a Marketing Assistant, responsible for all marketing campaigns for one of the top-selling real estate brokers at Keller Williams Center City Realty.  Chris is also an avid performer, fashion enthusiast, social media junkie, and coffee addict.  

Alyssa Guckin

Alyssa is currently a second semester freshman who cannot get enough of Temple University. Alyssa is majoring in Strategic Communication with a concentration in Public Relations and will soon be declared a second major, General Business through the Fox School. Through Alyssa’s education, she hopes to accomplish her goals of helping others. Alyssa is a people person and loves to hear about everyone’s interests.

Jordan Washington

Jordan  is currently a sophomore pursuing a degree in Strategic Communications with a focus in public relations. She is the Community Service Representative for 1300 Residence Hall and also works at Bath and Body Works part-time. When not working or studying, she enjoys maintaining her two blogs.

Amanda White

Amanda is currently a sophomore at Temple University, studying Public Relations. She is currently interning at Jubelirer Strategies, a PR firm in center city. At Temple, Amanda is involved in Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA), PRowl, and Temple Dems. Aside from school, Amanda figure skated for twelve years, and is now a Philadelphia Flyers Ice Girl. 

Jamila Johnson

Jamila is a senior at Temple University, majoring in Advertising and English. She has focused on her love of media and public relations throughout her career at Temple University, and at various internships throughout the Philadelphia region. A native of Washington, DC, she fell in love with Philadelphia the moment she got her acceptance letter. She hopes to one day own her own branding agency

Caitlin Kummeth
Caitlin is a goal oriented sophomore with a concentration in public relations and a minor in sociology. She is currently a Fashion PR Intern for Skai Blue Media, exposing herself to the fashion industry. As an active member of PRSSA, Caitlin is the Director of Mentorship embracing a leadership role. Serving as a volunteer for philanthropic causes including Alex’s Lemonade Stand, Habitat for Humanity, Philabundance, and The Ronald McDonald House, she is a firm believer in helping to make a difference within her community. Caitlin is thrilled to be one of the newest members of PRowl and ready to cultivate herself in the wonderful world of Public Relations.