By: Lora Bishop
If you’re undecided on a major but wish to make an impact on society, public relations could be the outlet for you. This is your opportunity to foster meaningful relationships and promote more positive discussion in today’s society. Public Relations is the road between organizations and the public, but it cannot be narrowed down to just one avenue. There is a little bit of every industry combined into the trade. You can choose to work in sports, entertainment, event planning or a plethora of other niche markets. There is something for everyones’ unique taste.
The importance of public relations cannot be discredited because it serves as the engine that keeps a company rolling. Public relations professionals have the ability to revive a dying brand, establish a personal connection between a company and their consumer base and even work with marketing teams to create fun and unique campaigns that will live on in the minds of the public for years to come.
If you’re a visual learner, check out this example of an impactful campaign put forth by Dove, dubbed “Dove: Campaign for Real Beauty.”
Campaigns like the one above are just one example in a sea of opportunities that you could one day be apart of. The industry requires a respect for your peers, your audience and yourself. Public relations professionals have the power to introduce new thoughts and ideas, change behaviors, and change the way the public perceives new concepts and values for the better.
The work you do now to earn your public relations degree will guide you in making the right career choice. Coursework is designed in a way that simulates real work-place experiences, and prepares you to enter the workforce with experience valuable to companies that are hiring.
If you’re not sure yet what industry might be the best for you, getting a degree in public relations will guide you to the path most suited to your interests. Internships within the major can provide unique experiences that will help you narrow down the search, and will allow you to gain insight on what drives and motivates you to be successful in your work.
I hope this post has inspired you to learn more about the public relations field and what it entails. You have the power to choose where your voice is heard, and this trade is a perfect avenue to project your thoughts and ideas out into the world. With this opportunity comes a great responsibility to be mindful of the impact you can make, and who it will affect in the long-run.
To learn more about the specific requirements of the major, I would suggest looking at your school’s public relations program webpage to get a clear and accurate idea of the expectations and obligations. If you would like to know more about the field and what it takes to get where you want to be, check out these other helpful links.
https://gspm.online.gwu.edu/blog/5-reasons-to-pursue-a-pr-career/
https://www.hercampus.com/school/app-state/benefits-majoring-public-relations