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May 23, 2016

Five Tips for New PR Majors

Emily H. Long – Associate

Choosing your major in college is a huge decision and can lead to determining the lifestyle you live in the future. With that said, I am so glad you chose PR.

I remember when I made that decision. I was a journalism major at Oklahoma City University with only one class left to finish the course work, but a ton of general education class requirements left to fill. Essentially looking for something that would put me at a full-time student in order for my loans to disperse, I took a freshman level PR class as a junior. And then I fell in love with PR and never looked back.

Enough about me, let’s get to what you came here for. Here are my five pieces of advice for new PR majors.

1. Learn Associated Press style
When I say learn it, I mean live and love it. This isn’t one of those books that you can get away without, and most of your classes will require it. AP style is the golden standard for writing in the communications industry. You will have to use it everywhere! I had at least four classes where I had weekly style quizzes and can truly thank my professors for beating this into my brain. I have even started texting in AP style. It will become your life.

2. Get organized
Go buy a planner and actually use it. PR is a lifestyle and it is better to start this early rather then just hoping you are organized enough and failing. College almost forces you to become a little better at time management, but you can never be too prepared. I suggest buying a pretty planner that makes you want to use it.

3. Consume news
I cannot stress this enough. You will have to keep up with how current events are impacting the industry and what media coverage about your client is out there at your fabulous future job. Once again, it is best to get started early and be in the habit. I use theSkimm and several mobile news apps to stay on top of my news.

4. Learn design
It’s better to have the skill than not. Knowing the programs used is a great way to stand out when you are looking for the coveted internship and, eventually, an actual job. Not everyone can design or even knows programs enough to figure it out. Start slow, take a graphic design class and learn your way around the programs.

5. Intern
You are going to hear this over and over until you graduate. Take internships seriously. Not only do they allow you to get your foot in the door, but you also gain extremely valuable lessons that are most likely not going to be taught in the classroom.

Regardless of the university you might attend, being a PR major opens the doors to opportunities across the nation. Remember, AP style and coffee are your friends. Good luck, future PR professional!

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