Student organizations play an important role in the life of JSchool students. While each organization has a faculty adviser, the main work of each organization is done by student officers and members. As such, student organizations give journalism students the chance to gain valuable leadership experience as well as shape important learning opportunities for themselves and their peers. In addition, student organizations help younger students network with juniors and seniors.
Ohio University Advertising Association (Ad Club) is a student chapter of the American Advertising Federation. Students get hands-on experience developing national advertising campaigns, through a competition sponsored by the AAF. In addition to participating in a national career day, the club hosts professionals from all areas of the advertising industry.
Association for Women in Communications (AWC) provides programs, contacts and services for communication students. The OU chapter regularly hosts professional speakers and attends national and regional conferences.
Black Student Communication Caucus (BSCC) fosters consistent dialogue and interaction among black communications majors, voices concerns of the black students within the College of Communication, and promotes awareness and understanding of minorities in the communication field. Membership is open to all students.
Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) is a pre-professional organization affiliated with the Public Relations Society of America designed to provide its members with practical experiences in public relations. Activities include weekly meetings, socials, internships, public relations experience, and conferences.
Radio-Television Digital News Association (RTDNA) is a student chapter of an international professional organization. The group allows students to learn from professionals at regional conferences and as campus guests. It provides networking opportunities for students seeking internships and jobs and hosts an annual regional broadcasting conference.
Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) promotes journalism as an ethical profession. The group conducts many programs and activities each year, such as sponsorship of speakers and panel discussions, social events, service projects, and other events that provide opportunities to learn and gain new skills. SPJ members attend national and regional networking conventions and work on issues relating to ethics and freedom of information.
Students for Global Media and Diversity (SGMD) promotes awareness of diversity and enhances cross-cultural communication among students at Ohio University. SGMD aims to foster an appreciation of the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of international journalists, their media systems, and the governments within which they operate. SGMD provides students with a comfortable environment within which they can socialize and network about international affairs. They learn about the role of media in a globalized community. Membership in this organization consists of enrolled Ohio University undergraduate and graduate domestic students and international students from all over the world. SGMD also welcomes alumni and former fellows of the Wilhelm Foreign Correspondence Internship to participate in the organization's activities. Enrollment and membership is free.
