So you’re a PR major and are trying to work your way through the papers and stress of the new semester without going insane. Or maybe you’re thinking about switching to PR, but aren’t sure if it’s the right fit for you. Well that’s where I come in! As a Junior PR major I am here to help and give you my best tips for getting the most from your experiences with this major. Read Tips For A Public Relations Major below!
Networking is so important! You may not be thinking about a career quite yet, but it’s never too early to start making connections in the industry. How can you do this? Attend career fairs on campus and get business cards. Learn more about your professor’s history with PR and maintain a relationship even after the semester is finished. Find out about industry events throughout the city and meet as many people as possible. Connect with fellow students by joining PRSSA and learning about how these connections can help you. The important thing is to get your name out there because you never know what could happen!
Once you’ve done some networking, it’s crucial to stay connected with these people through LinkedIn. Establish your professional profile now so that potential employers can see all of the great work you are doing in school. Showcase courses you’ve taken, writing samples, internships and volunteer experience. Connect with your professors and all those you network with to ensure that you maintain these relationships, and they continue to see what you’re working on.
PR is all about writing, and the only way to make your writing great is to be continuously practicing! Not only should you be completing your course assignments, but you should also do some writing on your own. Write mock press releases and pitch letters outside of class. Keep a journal of your daily thoughts. Showcase your talents right here at SOCIETY19 as a contributing writer for St. John’s. Whatever you decide, constantly practicing will help you to perfect your craft and also make any future writing a breeze.
Of course completing all assignments for your courses is a must, but as a PR major you have to realize that homework goes beyond the classroom. Make time everyday to catch up on the latest in PR and marketing news. PR Daily and Mashable are great sites to keep up to date with what’s going on in the industry.
Staying active on social media is a crucial part of PR. So clean up your Facebook profile, streamline your Instagram and create a professional Twitter account. Communicate to your followers what’s going on in your life, particularly how you’re growing in PR. You can also follow PR blogs and industry professionals to see what’s going on in the field.
Your time at St. John’s is all about what you make of it. Make sure to always take chances, and never pass up on opportunities. Use these four years to grow not only as a student, but also as a PR professional!
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