Getting Involved: Media Orgs to Join at Penn State

By Jayla Davis 

As back-to-school season approaches, so does the perfect time to refresh your resume, update your LinkedIn and figure out what you actually want to do with your degree. Whether you’re dreaming of a magazine editor title or leaning into PR, social media or content strategy, getting involved in the right campus orgs can help you build real-world experience before graduation. 

Here at Penn State there is no shortage of opportunities — you just need to know where to look. Here are some of the best media-related orgs to check out this upcoming semester:

Valley Magazine

Valley Magazine is a student-run life and style magazine organization here at Penn State. Valley publishes both print and digital issues and holds launch events that you don’t want to miss.

There is a position for everyone depending on your future career goals. You can apply to be a writer, PR member, photographer or even help out on creative direction and styling. Whether you’re interested in pitching stories or planning shoots, Valley gives you a glimpse into the editorial world. 

The Daily Collegian

For anyone who’s newsroom-curious, The Daily Collegian is the org for you. It’s Penn State’s student-run newspaper that gives you an editorial experience close to the real thing.

Expect tight deadlines, real reporting and headlines that cover everything from campus news to sports and arts and culture. It’s fast-paced, but if you believe journalism is your calling, this is the place to sharpen your writing and research skills.

Her Campus 

Want to write more about your fashion hot takes, pop culture obsessions and personal experiences? Her Campus is exactly what you’re looking for. 

It’s a national platform with chapters across the country, and Penn State’s chapter is super active. The vibe is more lifestyle-focused and personal with space to write in your own voice. It is great for new writers looking to get published and looks great on your resume, too. 

PRSSA (Public Relations Student Society of America)

If you’re leaning more toward public relations than editorial, PRSSA is essential. This org is perfect for networking, learning about the industry and building your confidence when it comes to PR strategy, events and client communication.

They bring in speakers, host panels and offer agency tours so you can test your skills before heading into the job market. 

CommAgency

CommAgency presents students with the opportunity to work with real clients on real campaigns. Whether you’re into video production, social media, PR or creative strategy, there is something for you here. 

You’ll build skills you can actually show off in a portfolio and work on a team that mimics a real media company. 

ED2010 (That’s us!)

If working in magazines, editorial or digital media is your dream — ED2010 is perfect for you. We host panels, resume workshops and even a trip to NYC for professional development. Our goal is to help you pave your way in the media industry. 

You can also write for our blog (just like this), help with event planning or run our social platforms. It’s casual, career-focused and provides you a place to meet other ambitious media students. 

Getting involved on campus is one of the smartest moves you can make for your future career — especially in an industry where experience is valued just as much as education. Whether you’re a first-year figuring it out or a junior looking to elevate, these orgs will help you grow your skills, build your network and figure out what you actually enjoy doing. These amazing orgs are at your fingertips, make sure you’re taking advantage of all Penn State has to offer.

How to Get Started

Looking to get involved? All of these orgs post regularly on Instagram and LinkedIn, and many are listed at Penn State’s OrgCentral. Don’t forget to stop by the Involvement Fair during the first weeks of the semester. See you there!