Considering the definition, value and breadth of an education in public relationsOn the first day of class, we were asked if public relations is a one- or two-way flow of information. I took a gamble and said one, which was wrong. I was wrong because I don’t really know anything about PR yet, I don’t feel like I could answer questions about PR, let alone go out into the world and “do” PR. Nevertheless, I am excited to be the person that can. This uncertainty is a new feeling for me, and I don’t like it. I’ve always been someone who identifies with what they are doing, strongly. I could talk for hours about the first amendment, the article I’m in the middle of writing, environmental issues, or ways to become more sustainable. I am passionate about being a high-achieving student, an advocate for environmental issues, and a journalist, and I feel that those roles are what make me who I am. When it comes to PR, I still feel uncertain about my future in the industry, but I am starting to understand the value of learning about the field and developing the skills of a PR professional. I was drawn to minor in advertising and PR at Grand Valley because I am fascinated by the power communication and language have to influence people and events. As a journalist, I’m chronicling decisions people make and the impact they have on others and the world around us. In journalism, you’re not supposed to include your own opinion or persuade someone to think a certain way. My understanding is that in PR, you are supposed to use language and communication to influence a public: to bring people to a particular conclusion, make them feel a certain way, or drive them to make a certain decision. It’s interesting to me that the same tools can be used to achieve different goals but also work together to share information. It’s important to recognize the impact you can make working in a communications field like advertising or PR. PR stands out to me specifically because of the two-way flow of communication it facilitates. Unlike advertising, PR invites a dynamic response to feedback from the public. This is incredibly valuable- as a communicator of any kind. Something that I feel strongly about is that my career will allow me to make a difference. When I was younger, I thought that meant changing the world and winning a bunch of awards. The older I get, the more I realize there are so many other ways to make a difference. This week, I reflected on the potential I have to make a difference as a PR professional- empowering a client by helping them grow their dream business or working with a nonprofit organization on a cause I am passionate about. The Moddest Co. campaign that we will be working on in class is super exciting to me because it’s a business I could see myself supporting- woman-owned, ethically sourced, with a goal of reducing waste. This is the kind of client I would love to have the opportunity to work for in my career. PR is one of the fastest-growing fields today, and as environmental impact and sustainability continue to become a concern for large companies as well as individuals, I know that my skill set will be valuable. In fact, the demand for environmental public relations specialists is expected to grow by 12% over the next ten years, but the number could increase as public interest and environmental issues continue to grow. Finding a job is a huge source of anxiety for me as a student, so it's reassuring to know I have these options. However, I know that my first job out of college isn’t necessarily going to be the perfect fit. Heck, a study in 2013 found that only 27% of college graduates work a job closely related to their major! Ultimately, the skills I take away from my coursework will benefit me much more than a specific degree. I can see applying what I learn in a PR course to work as a journalist or environmental activist- two positions where one must communicate to the public, and most importantly, listen to their response. To my fellow PR students and professionals- I'm curious to hear about a time when what you learned from the PR world came in handy in another part of your life! Was it clear to you that it came from a class or work experience, or just who you are as a communicator? In the here and now, I am so excited (and admittedly a little scared) to put my skills to the test on a campaign. I know that my perceptions of the field are going to change, and I hope that through that process, I can begin to visualize a career in PR and learn more about the industry. Ultimately, I know that the communications skills I develop in my PR in my courses will be valuable in any career I may end up in down the road. Categories
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