Note from the Editor
Emily MacIsaac // November 2, 2012
The past few months have been exciting in the PR world: there’s been the American presidential campaign, the XL food crisis and, most recently, Hurricane Sandy. It’s no different on the sports side of things, with the NHL lock-out continuing into the late fall. Luckily for some sports fans, the NBA season recently opened. Unfortunately our hockey fans will have to wait a little longer to watch their action-packed game.
On a more positive (and local) note there have been multiple community events during the fall to bring the Halifax community closer together. From Nocturne to City Harvest, Haligonians have been embracing PR campaigns that strengthen local support in a fun and engaging way.
Last weekend, 23 public relations and two science communication students graduated as part of the fall convocation. Let’s wish them luck in their future endeavors.
You’ll notice that the tone and style of this post is different from past notes from the editor. I want to be as transparent as possible and let you in on a little secret. I, Emily MacIsaac, am not going to attempt to ghostwrite for Kelly. I think this note would stand out like a cheap knock-off. I’ve been writing with such a structured voice for the past year I almost forget how to write from the heart and insert random corny jokes that make you giggle and cause people around you to ask “What’s up with her?” If you guessed that I’m a (co-op) government employee, then you are correct.
Curious why I’m writing this and where it’s going? Keep reading. I can’t give it all away at once. This isn’t a press release.
I’m one of two second-in-command editors. My partner in crime is Melissa Noonan who you’ll be hearing from in the near future (stay tuned!). While Symmetry is Kelly’s baby, think of us as the part-time caregivers. All three of us communicate and collaborate to ensure Symmetry lives up to what we want it to be, and what we think you want it to be. We encourage people to contribute, provide story ideas from time to time, and assist people with refining their drafts prior to official posting.
While we’re on that topic I encourage you to write! One article or numerous articles, we like them all. We are flexible with topics, however keep in mind our publication guidelines, and ensure that the article falls in line with Symmetry’s mission. I know I’m preaching to the choir, but it never hurts to remind people, right?
Please note that this month’s theme focuses on speech-writing and press conference preparation. Whether it’s a personal anecdote about a speech you’ve written or presented, or advice on how to prepare a successful press conference, we want to hear from you!
Before I let you go, I will remind you to check out MSVU English department’s fourth annual Celebrating Writing Week from November 12-16. This includes lectures, workshops, and contests. Check out their blog to stay updated. It’s also Movember, so keep an eye out for those staunch ‘staches and give your money to Prostate Cancer Canada, okay?
The Symmetry team is looking forward to more amazing articles during the month of November and beyond!
Stay tuned for our next Note from the Editor in December. Until next time, happy studies and happy co-ops, everyone.
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Emily MacIsaac is an editor for Symmetry. Currently she is exploring both the scenic parks of Ottawa and the job market. With a love of running and traveling who knows where she’ll end up be next! (But she’ll have to wait until May 2013).
