An ICONic Experience
Posted on Nov. 13, 2025 / Subscribe 0
Attending the 2025 PRSSA ICON Conference in Washington D.C. was an invaluable experience for our group of five members from PRSSA at Oakland University. The conference provided a unique opportunity to learn, collaborate and broaden our understanding of the public relations industry. Engaging with students and professionals from across the country allowed us to expand our perspectives and strengthen our enthusiasm for pursuing careers in communications.
One of the highlights of the conference was connecting with other Michigan PRSSA chapters, including Wayne State University, Michigan State University, Northern Michigan University and Central Michigan University. Sharing our chapter experiences and hearing about their initiatives reminded us of the strong PR community within our state. It was encouraging to see how each chapter approaches professional development in its own way, yet we are all working toward similar goals as emerging practitioners.
We were also grateful for the chance to connect with PRSA Detroit member, Antonice Strickland. Taking time to speak with her about her career journey and the steps she took to find her place in the industry was incredibly impactful. She emphasized understanding your value, recognizing your strengths and staying confident in your abilities. Her advice reinforced the importance of being open to learning and seeking mentorship along the way.
Throughout the Conference, we attended several sessions covering topics such as crisis communication, sports public relations and influencer marketing. These discussions highlighted how rapidly the industry continues to evolve and how essential it is to remain adaptable. One theme that was consistently emphasized was the importance of networking. Building genuine relationships, staying connected and being intentional about professional interactions will continue to be critical as we prepare to enter the workforce.
Beyond the conference itself, our group was thankful to have time to explore Washington D.C. We were able to visit historic landmarks, experience the city’s culture and even attend a Washington Wizards game. The trip was both educational and memorable. We are truly appreciative of the opportunity to attend ICON 2025 and look forward to applying the lessons learned as we take our next steps as upcoming graduates.
Natalie Lindstrom is the PRSSA President at Oakland University and a senior student studying Public Relations
and Strategic Communications.
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