A number of important professional societies have local groups that you can join while you are still a student or after graduation. They offer a range of resources that you should explore. Most offer a less expensive student or recent graduate membership option.

International Association of Business Communicators (IABC)
IABC is an organization created for students to network in the many fields of Communication in order to enhance your knowledge and skills in the professional world.

Website: www.iabc.com/student  Pitt chapter: iabcpitt.wordpress.com/  
The Pitt chapter also has a Facebook group that you are welcome to join.

Mission Statement: IABC says that their mission is to

" -Provide lifelong learning opportunities that give IABC members the tools and information they need to be the best in their chosen disciplines.

-Share among our membership best global communication practices, ideas and experiences that will enable us to develop highly ethical and effective performance standards for our profession.

-Shape the future of the profession through ground-breaking research.

-Lead the way in the use of advanced information technology in the profession.

-Unite the communication profession worldwide in one diverse, multifaceted organization under the banner of the International Association of Business Communicators."

Membership: Must have proof of being a full-time student. $44 per year, plus chapter and regional dues where applicable.

Membership Benefits:
- Conferences
- Member Only Job Listings
- Networking Opportunities (15,000+ Members)
- Professional Discussion Panels
- Resume/Portfolio Workshops
- Possible Internship Opportunities

...................................................................................................

Society of Technical Communications (STC)
STC is an organization that holds and sponsors networking events and learning opportunities for their members at a discounted rate and for non-members for a flat rate.

Website: www.stcpgh.org

Mission Statement: "Society of Technical Communications advances the theory and practice of technical communications across all user abilities and media so that both businesses and customers benefit from safe, appropriate, and effective use of products, information, and services."

Membership: $30 per year

Membership Benefits:
- Members only Job Database
- Member Directory
- Conference Proceedings
- Publication Search
- Salary Database

...................................................................................................

Public Relations Society of America of Pittsburgh (PRSA)
PRSA is an organization formed in order for members to be a part of their local public relations community. The PRSA offers several events each year on the Pitt campus.

Website: www.prsa-pgh.org

Mission Statement: "To promote the highest standards of professional competence and ethics, to foster professional education and development, and to seek to build on understanding and supporting public relations throughout the business community."

Membership: Initiation Fee: $65
Annual Dues: $225

Membership Benefits:
- Conferences
- Seminars
- Workshops
- Newsletters
- Networking (20,000+ Members)