Carson Jones: A Gold Key Award Journey

By Emily Codina

erc103@txstate.edu

As the echoes of the last academic year fade into memory, it's the accomplishments and experiences that remain etched in our minds. Among these remarkable achievements, the recognition of Carson Jones, a dedicated member of our PRSSA chapter, with the esteemed Gold Key award stands out. This award serves as a testament to the recipient’s exceptional contributions and marks an extraordinary milestone in Carson's journey.

Carson's reaction to receiving the Gold Key award encapsulates a mix of pride. He emphasizes the exclusivity of the honor, as only a select few among the vast number of PR students nationwide were chosen for this distinction. Carson's response underscores the profound impact of the award:

Texas State Alum, Carson Jones holds his PRSSA Gold Key award.

“The fact that my board’s work was recognized at such a high level is something I can’t really wrap my head around. I am so humbled and full of pride.”

Reflecting on this journey and growth, especially as a former chapter president, Carson shared how the experience profoundly shaped his personal and professional development:

“Joining the Texas State PRSSA chapter in my sophomore year, I aspired to advance into a leadership position, unaware of the level of achievement we would attain as a chapter. Witnessing the chapter’s expansion through strategic initiatives, I observed my own growth as a leader evolves in parallel.”

Carson’s experience with the Gold Key award has been instrumental in bolstering his confidence and combating imposter syndrome:

“I feel much more confident, prepared, and worthy about entertaining the workforce knowing that I really do have what it takes to be a successful PR practitioner.”

Throughout his college journey, various moments and experiences contributed to this remarkable achievement. Networking emerged as a pivotal theme, with his involvement in PRSSA enabling connections with peers from across the nation:

“These connections propelled me into various ongoing initiatives and gave me a platform to not only do more outside of the TXST chapter but to get the TXST chapter involved in those various opportunities.”

Looking ahead, Carson’s aspirations within the public relations industry are ambitious and inspiring:

“In the future, my aspiration is to shift towards the renewable energy, sustainability, and green energy sector, specifically within the communications/creative marketing department.”

Carson plans to leverage his network to further his career and impact the PR world:

“Whether it be with future employers, co-workers or friends, there is always someone who knows someone or someone who has just the thing for you.”

As a public relations graduate and now practitioner, Carson offers safe advice to aspiring PR practitioners:

“Get involved. Take the chance. Make the connection. Be open. Embrace failure as a way to fuel improvements.”

As we reflect on the past year's journey. We’re inspired to embrace our journey, step out with courage, and aim for excellence. Join us in the coming year to create our own extraordinary narratives in the world of PR.