McKenzie Kurosu has made a significant achievement at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. She is the first graduate in communication and journalism to receive a Certificate in Principles of Public Relations from the Universal Accreditation Board (UAB), managed by the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA). This certificate showcases essential skills for new professionals entering the public relations field.
Kurosu graduated in May 2025 with a double major in communication and journalism from the College of Social Sciences. She earned her certificate in December 2025 by completing specific courses and passing an exam.
“This certificate helps connect classroom learning to real-world situations,” Kurosu explained. “It makes your résumé more attractive to recruiters and is a stepping stone for achieving Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) later in your career.”
To apply for the certificate, students must be enrolled in public relations or related majors, and they need membership in PRSA or its student chapters. At UH Mānoa, Kurosu also gained valuable experience by leading as vice president and communications director of the David A. Ward chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA). She found her involvement in PRSSA transformative.
“I had the opportunity to attend the ICON conference in California, where I met industry professionals and fellow students who share my passion,” she noted. This kind of networking is vital in today’s job market, where connections often lead to opportunities.
Interestingly, statistics show that around 93% of employers consider practical experience, such as internships or certifications, when hiring. This highlights how Kurosu’s efforts align with what the industry seeks. In a fast-evolving job landscape, having certifications can make a real difference.
For more details about the certificate and its eligibility requirements, you can visit the PRSA’s official site or reach out to faculty advisor Ji Young Kim at jkim22@hawaii.edu.
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