After being a radiography major for a year, I knew that the medical field was not for me. So, I started researching other majors Ball State had to offer. After talking with friends and family, I decided public relations was the perfect fit for me. I immediately got involved with PRSSA and gained friendships and relationships that I will forever cherish. I found it very beneficial to connect with people that share my major and interests, which is one of my favorite aspects of PRSSA. Changing my major was definitely the right choice for me and I am now looking forward to my future in the PR world.
As a senior, I have learned many lessons during my time at Ball State and I would like to share those with you.
1. Get involved! You hear this over and over again in college, but I can say that this is one of the easiest ways to make the most of your college experience. Getting involved in something you are interested in with like-minded people, will allow you to grow personally and professionally, and allow you to gain friendships that you may not have had otherwise.
2. Network, network, network! Networking does not just include professionals, it includes friends, professors, advisors, friends of friends, etc. Create relationships with your professors and classmates. You never know when these connections will benefit you down the road.
3. Be willing to learn. Asking questions and being willing to learn will allow you to hit the ground running in our industry. Employers will be impressed with someone that is eager to learn and do their best. Don’t be scared to get out of your comfort zone and set yourself apart from others.
4. Staying organized is key. Everyone has their own method tostaying organized.Weather you write daily to do lists, carry a planner, or use Sticky Notes. As a public relations major, it is vital that you find the best organization method that works for you. This will not only help you stay on top of your class work, but these skills will be useful in your career post-graduation as well.
5. Manage your time. College students are busy. Managing classes, work schedules, extra-curricular activities, and personal lives can be stressful! With that being said, it is important to get on a schedule and learn how to manage your time. This is a huge adjustment when first coming to college. It’s all up to you now!
6. Utilize Linked-In. Create a Linked-In account and keep it up to date!Linked-In allows you to connect with professionals, network, and search job postings. This is especially helpful when looking for internships and jobs!
7. Create your own portfolio. As I start applying to jobs post-graduation, I have noticed how much emphasis employers put on submitting a portfolio. Not only with this show the employer your previous work, it shows how organized and serious you are about the role.
8. Be smart on social media. Employers will look you up on social media. While it may not seem like a big deal, the way you portray yourself online tells employers exactly what they need to know about you. Make a good impression by keeping your social media platforms clean and professional.
9. Learn software. Take some time to get familiar with Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, Canva, etc. Learning the basics of these platforms will set you apart from others and help build your skillset.
10. Be yourself! In the end, being yourself and being genuine is what is going to get you where you want to be. I think this is the biggest lesson I have learned throughout college. College is where you find out who you really are… make the most of it!
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