How FINN’s PRSSA Partners for Opportunity Program Builds Strategic and Impactful Communicators Through a Values-Driven Approach

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How FINN's PRSSA Partners for Opportunity Program Builds Strategic and Impactful Communicators Through a Values-Driven Approach

October 29, 2025

A student and mentor reflect on the impact of FINN Partners' day-in-the-life programming

By: Carson Tabakin, Account Executive, New York CSR & Global Impact and Jarvis Coleman, Florida A&M '25, PRSSA Mentee

Jarvis' POV:

While classroom learning is valuable, what we learn can be difficult to translate into real-world scenarios. Many students preparing to enter the workforce feel the pressure of gaining practical experience, building industry connections, and understanding how to navigate professional environments.

Recognizing this, FINN Partners created the FINN Partners + PRSSA Partners for Diversity programto empower PR and marketing students a closer look at agency life while highlighting the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the industry. I was paired with Carson who offered career guidance, networking support, and first-hand work experience through participation in client meetings and new business brainstorms. I received valuable insight on what a career in PR and marketing can look like, and make professional connections and open doors to future opportunities.

Carson's POV:

The FINN Partners + PRSSA Partners for Diversity program is designed for students to dip their toes into the industry, and obtain the benefit of a mentor. It allows them to gain real-world job experience and explore topics and clients they might not otherwise know exist, like climate tech or responsible business in medicine. However, as much as this program is built to help students transition their degrees to real-life skills, it's also a one-of-a-kind learning experience for the FINN team to better understand what the next generation is learning, their passion points and viewpoint on shaping and driving the industry forward.

Why did you decide to participate in the PRSSA Partners for Diversity program?

Carson:During college, I was actively involved in PRSSA and spent a lot of energy expanding my network to prepare for the big professional transition. I'm incredibly grateful for the people who took the time to support me. Not too long ago, I was the one searching for answers and figuring out my path, so I understand how valuable that support and transparency can be. Participating in this program is my small way of giving back and helping others navigate their own journeys - none of us can succeed on our own!

Jarvis:I joined the PRSSA Partners for Diversity program to represent Florida A&M and demonstrate that a Rattler is someone passionate, community-driven, and ready to lead. I studied alongside hardworking, talented peers at FAMU and aim to reflect that excellence in every opportunity I pursue. My purpose statement is: "To be fearless in believing that I deserve and can achieve anything I set out to do to make myself and the world a better place, and to share my abundance with others." I hope my participation in the program demonstrated this!

As a mentor and as a student, what was your key takeaway from the program?

Carson: One of my biggest takeaways is just how misunderstood public relations can be. Meeting with Jarvis reinforced something I've always believed: even when you've spent years studying it, the industry is always evolving and can still be confusing to grasp at times! There's often a disconnect- transitioning from classroom concepts to real-world applications can feel overwhelming, but it's also an exciting opportunity to see just how dynamic PR can be. Programs like this help illuminate the bigger picture, making it easier for students to connect the dots and feel confident in taking the next step. For example, much of what I learned at school was campaign building and crafting press releases, but when I joined an agency, my role encompassed so much more, like meeting one-on-one with journalists, compiling research, and staffing media interviews for clients.

Jarvis: My biggest takeaway is that while PR constantly evolves, strong writing remains a foundational skill. This program made me realize I'm in what feels like a Red Queen's race, continually running to keep up with technological changes, media, and strategy. But that's also what excites me.

One standout moment was learning about Bluegreen Water Technologiesin a meeting with a FINN Account Supervisor, Brian Sherry. This company treats harmful algae blooms all while restoring bodies of water. That conversation made me realize how public relations can intersect with sustainability and innovation, work that I could wake up excited to do every day.

Carson, what is one piece of advice you'd like to offer to students entering their senior or last year in school?

Carson:Embrace a "yes" mindset. Say yes to academic, professional, personal growth, or social opportunities that genuinely interest you, even if it feels a bit uncomfortable. That said, be mindful not to overcommit yourself. You've made it so far, so take a moment to enjoy and be proud of what you've accomplished! Use this time to explore and take advantage of the resources still available to you. I truly believe that the best way to discover what excites you is by learning what doesn't.

Jarivs, how did a program like this teach you how to use your unique voice?

Jarvis:If my voice could be defined in two words, it would be appreciative and curious. This program gave me access to the inner workings of a global agency where I learned the importance of valuing differences and the unique perspectives each team member brings. Being curious and willing to listen opens the door to learning from others.

Everyone I interacted with at FINN was generous with their time, intentional in their work, and genuinely invested in our growth. That kind of environment helped me realize the value of my perspective and how curiosity, when paired with purpose, can shape meaningful narratives.

What is the number one thing you are optimistic about for the future of PR?

Carson:Our work mirrors the pulse of society, adapting as the world changes and it's interesting to see how the industry has redefined success. From navigating an intense election cycle and responding to natural disasters to witnessing major global challenges, I've seen firsthand how these events reshape our industry. I've also watched the rise and fall of social media platforms, the transformation of newsrooms, and observed a complete reimagining of how people consume news.

PR thrives on flexibility, and I believe these qualities are becoming even more integral- watching the industry successfully navigate and adapt to a rapidly changing world gives me immense optimism for its future.

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