In recent years, English soccer has seen a surge in popularity across the globe, and the U.S.
has become a key market for the sport. As soccer continues to grow, their is a major role in the
public relations ties of shaping the perceptions and the expanding of the fanbases are
amazing. Through strategic PR efforts, English football clubs, leagues, and players have gained
significant fanbases, attracting millions of fans and sparking a sort of love in American and
English sports.

Public relations plays a crucial role in creating and maintaining the brand image of English
soccer teams in the American market. Public relations plays a crucial role in creating and
maintaining the brand of major English soccer teams, also known as the big six, which ten to
have the biggest impact on American athletes. Top-tier Premier League clubs like Manchester
United, Liverpool, Chelsea, and Arsenal have leveraged PR campaigns to reach American
audiences. These campaigns come in many different forms, media appearances, events, and
interactions with key people.

They have a big event called fanfest, which is when they have a venue rented out and stream
all the games that weekend, along with having the opportunity to meet some of their favorite
players. As soccer grows in America, the public relations efforts focus on engaging fans with
their teams overseas. Social media platforms, press releases and events like fanfest help create
a bridge between fans and their teams.

Strategic partnerships and sponsorships are key parts of their Public Relations strategies in
American markets. Many English soccer teams have ties with different American companies so
fans will recognize that they have their favorite companies with their favorite teams.
Public relations plays an important role in the success of English soccer in America. By creating
engaging campaigns, forming strategic partnerships, and managing media coverage, PR
professionals ensure that the sport continues to grow its fanbase and influence. As more
American fans tune in to watch Premier League matches and engage with English clubs, the PR
strategies that have supported this growth will remain important to the ongoing success of
English soccer in the U.S. Through effective PR, soccer is well on its way to becoming a major
aspect in the American sports landscape

One of the key drivers behind Topicals’ success is its founder Olamide Olowe, whose inventive
approach to marketing has set the brand apart from competitors. Olamide consistently pushes
the boundaries of traditional skincare advertising, using creative storytelling to connect with
her audience.

For instance, Topicals recently launched their “Faded Bar Soap”—a product designed to treat
dry skin and hyperpigmentation. The soap sold out in just 15 minutes after its launch, a
testament to the strength of its marketing. The promotional campaign featured a dark-skinned
model known for embracing her hyperpigmentation, underscoring the brand’s commitment
to inclusivity. The campaign also cleverly featured rapper Flo Milli using the soap while washing
a car at a car wash, turning an everyday act into a fun, quirky advertisement. This unexpected
concept—pairing skincare with an unconventional visual—was both original and creative,
capturing the attention of consumers in a way that typical skincare ads might not.

Olamide’s ability to turn everyday skincare routines into cultural moments is what truly sets
Topicals apart from other skincare brands. Many skincare lines focus on simplicity and
aesthetics, but Topicals goes further by using storytelling and humor to connect emotionally
with consumers. It’s this unique blend of creativity, inclusivity, and influencer partnerships that
positions Topicals as a standout in the crowded skincare market.

Events for Public Relations is a big service. During my time in 1853, I helped in three different events along with promoting two events on different sides of the United States for my Internship. Events are great for bringing good word of mouth to an organization along with bringing people together that relate with the goals of the organization such as networking. The ones I helped with for 1853, I mostly helped with food which was able to promote the event to hungry college students who otherwise might not care for what we were promoting. During my third event here for the recent fundraiser for Residents for Sustainable Cheltenham, I was incharge of the food and had to give it out right behind the welcome table and in front of all the other tables that will then catch the eye of those now slowing down to eat. This was done to attract those that support the goals of R4SC but otherwise would not have known of the group before what we did on the green. Another thing about PR on events preserving the event so people can know it did well and think highly of your group. The second event I helped with in 1853 called professional pop-up, which was a presentation with guests on the media field. I had the idea of recording what was being said, however this only came to my mind after the event was over. Sadly no one else also thought of that, I feel that speech could have really helped our department in the long term.  Lucky the second event I held for my internship I actually was able to help out with it in person. I was able to record and send images for it and showcase different reactions from the guest that went to it. Here at Arcadia we see good PR from events hosted by the campus such as the yearly Food truck/Rock the Knight and spring events such as woodstock. So events are a great way for some groups to gain good PR, especially if it’s for Networking or Fundraising for a cause. That’s why we here at 1853 always host events around campus and why you in the future should always promote in person events for causes and make sure that even after the event that you preserve it for people to see online.

So far working with the 1853 Communications program gives a lot of benefits and ideas. I so far
have been very interested in the program and what we do to recommend others to join this
program that was founded not super long ago. Everyday we share our awareness and follow up
on anything that would be posted on the blog schedule. The PRSSA chapter gives the student
hands-on experience in public relations and helping nonprofits locally. This program was
actually named after Arcadia was founded! “1853”.This program provides a lot of service for
creating campaigns and organizations like for example: “ACCT Philly” & “For Pete’s Sake”.
Arcadia right now is engaging in initiatives through “Arcadia Votes” for the upcoming 2024
election. This helps students and encourage them to register to vote. And as for halloween, we
do fundraisers, events, and of course themed social media campaigns. And of course we do this
with other holidays as well in the future! I know I said Halloween first but it’s the closest holiday
right now. But yes! We encourage you to join our program or participate in our events and
fundraisers. And feel free to follow us on social media!

As my final semester at Arcadia University draws to a close, I find myself fondly looking back on how many amazing opportunities I have been given within 1853 Communications.

I first joined the practicum in the Fall of 2022 and was immediately greeted with open arms. I was going through something incredibly devastating at the time, and being brought into the 1853 Comms family and treated as if I had been there for years was something I will never forget. Time progressed, and as we said goodbye to our graduating founding members, the title of Vice Firm Director found its way into my job description. The amount of trust bestowed upon me by Dr. Mullin and my classmates has truly been an honor and a privilege.

Throughout my time with the organization, we worked closely with ACCT Philly, Pals For Life, the Downtown Glenside Foundation, and Donate Life America, along with Arcadia’s own Media and Communication department (DMC), LocoMag, and Quiddity. I was also presented with the opportunity to join Arcadia’s chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA). Through working with these organizations, I have developed invaluable skills that will undoubtedly transfer to any job I am faced with for the rest of my life.

Working with ACCT Philly and Pals For Life both showed me that not only do people love animals, but they love feeling like a part of their community and like they’re making a difference. The Downtown Glenside Foundation taught me the importance of community as well, and how important it is to open your eyes and heart to smaller-scale businesses and events in your area. As for the DMC, LocoMag, and Quiddity, I learned that uplifting and supporting your fellow students’ creative endeavors and hard work is the most beautiful thing you can do for a classmate. I will take all of these lessons with me past graduation and apply them to my future, whatever it shall bring me.

Most recently, working with Donate Life America has been such a rewarding experience. As Vice Firm Director, I had to step up and take greater control of the reins of 1853 Comms. Along with Jo, Brianna, and our amazing team of account executives, we have accomplished something greater than ourselves. Learning and spreading facts about organ donation, signing people up to be organ donors, and holding events to spread awareness and education have all taught me great things about organizing events and using social media to spread the word about said events. Being given access to Canva Pro as well, I have learned many tips and tricks when it comes to graphic design and photo editing! Most importantly, I was the photographer for our big event on April 9th which allowed me to photograph people and animals in motion, as well as capture genuine emotions on people’s faces. This exposure has with no doubt helped me in my strides toward becoming a live music photographer. All in all, I have loved getting to interact more closely with the Arcadia community and my classmates this semester. In my opinion, we deserve to win first place in the Donate Life Challenge!

To conclude my final blog post as an 1853 Communications account executive and the Vice Firm Director, I cannot thank Dr. Mullin and my incredibly hard-working teammates enough for the kindness and trust they have shown me. I will always be grateful for my time in the agency and will continue to apply the skills I have learned to my everyday life. Congratulations to my fellow Class of 2024 teammates!

I am a part of 1853 Communications, a student-run public relations firm. It all started in an animation course when a Global Media student started talking about being a part of a Public Relations Practicum. As a Computing Technology major, my classes mainly focus on graphic design and programming. I knew I wanted to get outside my comfort zone and do something that challenged me on a personal level. A class that encouraged me to improve my public speaking and networking skills. One thing led to another and before the course registrations opened, I knew what practicum I wanted to join: CM120B, a 2-credit class, which runs 1853 Communications.

However, as an outside major, I did not know if I had the right qualifications to join. Before I officially signed up, I reached out to Professor Christine Mullin, who teaches the course and is the faculty advisor for the firm, with some of my questions. My main concern was if I needed prior experience in public relations, or meet certain requirements to register? I learned that this practicum is open to all majors and that for the Spring 2024 semester, 1853 Communications would be participating in the Donate Life College Challenge. Hence, my origin story working at a PR agency for the first time had finally begun. Although it was something I have never done before, I was excited and ready to learn from this new experience.

This course has given me the chance to make new connections and feel part of a community. With each planning of an event, the PR agency is one step closer to achieving the goal, which is bringing awareness to Donate Life on campus. I am grateful to be a part of a team that is open, friendly to newcomers, especially those who have no prior experience in PR. Being able to participate in discussions, express ideas, and hear different perspectives since day one has allowed me to grow as a professional as well. I had the opportunity to do amazing things such as hand out goodie bags on Valentine’s Day to classmates, meet the President of Arcadia University, and work with an incredible group of people during donor drives. I have had fun spreading a message of life and hope to others. It has been a life changing course, CM120B, that continues to show me what is beyond my limits and that I am capable of handling different challenges that come my way.

The Gift of Life Donor Program is the largest organ donation organization in the country. The program organizes an event called the “Students Save Lives College Challenge”. This challenge encourages college clubs, and organizations to spread awareness for their campus communities to register as organ donors. The prizes for the challenge include $1000 for first place, $500 for second place, $300 for third place, and a $500 bonus to whatever organization can get the most new donors. In 2021 our team at 1853 Communications came in 2nd place!

This year our goal for the challenge is to register new organ donors either at Arcadia or the surrounding community. We also want to create awareness for organ donation and why it is so important in saving lives. We will be hosting seven different table donor registration drives on campus to help spread awareness and register new donors in the community. We will also be hosting a special event on Arcadia University’s Haber Green on April 9th. We will also be asking teams on April 12 (National Blue & Green Day) to wear blue and green at their practices or games to show awareness for National Donate Life Blue & Green Day. 

Organ donation is the giving of an organ or tissue to someone who requires a new one for a transplant. The decision to donate organs can save up to eight lives and there is no cost or charge to the donor’s family, a single donor can also change over 75 lives with tissue and cornea donation. Organ donation gives families and individuals another chance to live their lives, there are currently over 106,000 men, women, and children on the donor waiting list currently.

The Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA), is the leading organization for students in public relations or communications. Started in 1967, PRSSA has helped many students further their career by giving them access to scholarships, educational programs, and networking opportunities. This organization has also provided students with mentorship opportunities, connecting them with professionals that can help guide to them into a career in the communications fields. As a member of PSSRA, you will have access to countless opportunities to broaden your portfolio and career. The website provides you with links to see potential internship opportunities, upcoming events and PR competitions, and even applications to scholarships and leadership awards. As a member, you would also have access to their blogs, newsletters, publications, and case studies.

PRSSA has over 11,000 student members from universities across the country and even outside of the United states; they have advocate heavily for ethics and diversity in the field. These students all come together under one common interest; public relations and communications. With many career options, we start with a college education. PRSSA since their creation, has provided standards of what a degree in public relations looks like. As a member, you get access to fellow students and graduates, people who are studying the same things as you, and could be your future coworkers. You also get access to programs that can help you before you begin the job search, using their Certificate in Principles of Public Relations program, that can help your resume stand out when applying for jobs. This program can be done completely remote, and can help you stand out amongst other candidates.

The end of your academic career is not where the benefits stop; this membership will help you well into your career path. The Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), will continue to help you after you have finished your degree. The membership will give you access to lists of available jobs, and places to meet and talk to other people just starting out in the field of public relations. The membership costs 55 dollars for the year, and is definitely a worthy purpose for anyone who is pursuing a career in public relations.

There’s a branch in public relations that often goes overlooked, that important emergency button used in the most dire of circumstances, that usually isn’t thought of until absolutely necessary. While companies tend to avoid the thought of crisis PR, public facing crises are an inevitable part of any company’s future. While crisis PR is often overlooked, it is a fast-paced, high-stakes field that takes years to understand and even more to master. As the landscape of business-customer interactions have changed over the past several decades, so too have the needs of crisis PR actors.

If we take a look at some of the crises facing modern businesses, it becomes apparent that crisis PR is no longer just an important back-pocket tool for when a crisis might arise, but an ever-evolving constant that should be utilized to mitigate risks as they develop. Although we are hardly through the first few years of the 2020’s, the landscape of business and technology has changed dramatically during the decade. The meteoric rise of social media apps like TikTok have made public-facing companies even more vulnerable to crises, as negative press can spread like wildfire more so than ever before. In addition to social media communication allowing for constant contact between potential consumers, technology is playing a new, unique role in shaping modern day crises.

Artificial intelligence has had a groundbreaking year. Breakthroughs in AI have brought the power of technology to a level previously only thought to be possible through science fiction, and that power has only recently been made available to the general public. With these extraordinary breakthroughs come changes throughout all parts of our society, and public relations is no different. Earlier this year the apparel brand, Levi’s, experienced backlash for its use of Ai-generated models to display new clothing on its website. The intention, as Levi’s stated, was to generate inclusivity by using AI-generated models of all backgrounds. The crisis began when customers began to ask if it was really inclusive to remove all diverse models from its website in favor of AI-generated mimicry.

In response, Levi’s has restated its position, claiming that AI models are not the sole solution to problems of inclusion, but has not changed its plans to use AI models for its website.

The lessons we can take away from Levi’s are less in its response to the backlash, and more in the greater picture this paints for PR professionals. In a world where information can be disseminated online at incomprehensible speeds, advances in technology and the use of AI should keep crisis PR professionals on high-alert. This is not the same as other potentially controversial decisions a company could make. As AI presents new ethical challenges to humanity, it does the same to businesses hoping to use it.

The use of AI in any company should be assessed by crisis PR professionals who are well-versed in both the company’s reputation and their clients’ potential views on artificial intelligence. The worlds of technology and crisis are changing, and public relations professionals are no exception to that.

Thankfully, there are ways to assess the public’s opinion of AI use. Where Levi’s went wrong was by appearing blind to the real reason behind DEI, and presumably using AI as a shortcut to real diversity. When consumers didn’t agree, Levi’s didn’t equivocate. Instead, companies should look at AI as a tool to promote professional goals within their offices, using AI for efficiency without overlooking the human aspects of their missions.

Ultimately, consumers are still human and while AI has exploded into the cultural zeitgeist, the populus is still wary of its use. PR professionals should keep this in mind when considering AI’s use and the ethical implications. Technology has changed PR and its cousin, crisis communications, immeasurably over the last several decades, but just as quickly as AI changes, so too must the professionals who use it.

It is almost a universal experience having to work in a group or a collaborative environment throughout school. This continues in adulthood with careers that may rely on communication between coworkers or superiors. Additionally, I think everyone can remember a time when someone in their group may not have attributed as much or when they had a coworker they dreaded working with. No one wants to be that person. These are some tips I can provide to be a “good” team member whether that is professionally, socially, or collaboratively.

#1 Communication

As a PR Professional, many of us have background education in communication. Even if not, we have to communicate at some point throughout our days. Having a group member who is open about their work, whether it is that they are struggling to get it done or simply need ideas is much more appreciated than someone who doesn’t.

Lack of communication causes anxiety between members which can then lead to tension and unnecessary barriers to work. But communication can ease those anxieties and especially in a college environment when there are enough stressors, I can appreciate and understand when someone is having an issue.

#2 Reliability

This ties into my previous point a bit, but nothing is worse than a coworker or group member that is unreliable. Reliability stems from the ability to perform or appear in relation to responsibilities given. The urge to procrastinate may happen here and there, but simply warning other participants that you may be late turning something in or appearing for a study session eases anxiety.

#3 Organization

Life can get overwhelming, but establishing some sense of organization will not only make things easier in your personal life but also can be used in your professional life to keep you on track.

Some suggestions:

• A weekly/daily planner. These are typically more detailed than monthly calendars and allow more planning for day to day life.
• Google calendars. A good digital alternative to a physical planner.
• Alarms!! As someone who often will forget something, another digital reminder apart from calendar dates are alarms that will ring when I need to do something.
• Accountability partner. Similar to a gym partner, having a friend with similar classes or activities as you who can help remind you of due dates and upcoming events.

Hopefully these tips can be found useful in your journey of becoming a better team member in whatever aspect of your life that may be.