Vanessa Grzyboski graduated from Shippensburg University’s Communication/Journalism, Public Relations Concentration, B.A. program in May 2020.
When Grzyboski left Riverside Junior/Senior High School, she found no shortage of opportunities for hands-on experience at Ship. Among her notable accomplishments, Grzyboski served as both vice president and president of Ship’s chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA). The student organization allowed her to build her portfolio and network with professionals through unique experiences like conferences in Austin and San Diego. During her time with PRSSA, the group received the Star Chapter Award. She was also able to connect with the Public Relations Society of Harrisburg through PRSSA.
But Grzyboski’s time with PRSSA is only part of her involvement at Ship. She was also the president of the Order of Omega, the 2019 Panhellenic Council president, head tutor at the Learning Center’s Writing Studio and a sister of Delta Zeta. The PR up-and-comer was also a part of the Communication/Journalism Academic Appeals Committee, the External Relations and Communications Advisory Board, the Student Media Advisory Board, the College of Arts and Sciences Study Advisory Board, the President’s Student Advisory Council and the Senior Celebration Week Committee.
“I was able to build my portfolio with work samples that I brought to interviews for internships and now can with jobs as well,” Grzyboski said.
Grzyboski was able to complete five internships while at Ship. These opportunities were with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, the Pennsylvania Small Business Development Center, Shippensburg University’s Office of Communications and Marketing and Shelly Lyons Public Affairs and Communications.
It’s safe to say Grzyboski made the most of her Ship through plenty of hard work, but she won’t shy away from giving credit she feels is due.
“The Communication/Journalism faculty is amazing at Shippensburg. Dr. (Carrie) Sipes has helped me grow so much as a leader and aspiring PR professional both in the classroom and with PRSSA. Her professionalism and experience within the industry help prepare students for post-graduation and it is something that I have always valued. She also is the adviser for PRSSA and she helped me so much with the transition from vice president to president. The one-on-one connections that you have the opportunity to make with faculty are so special and genuine. Professor (Stephanie) Witmer also challenges her students in all of her classes. Having her as a professor has helped me improve my writing skills and shape me professionally.”
Grzyboski completed minors in political science and sociology.
Read more stories from the Class of 2020.
