Going from the classroom to the office is a transition we all worry about throughout our college years. Although it can be intimidating, this is an exciting opportunity to apply the skills and knowledge you've gained in college classes to a real-world setting. You're navigating a new environment, learning new skills, and trying to make a good impression on your colleagues and supervisors. These classes at Hofstra University helped me transition into the office more easily and confidently.
Photo courtesy of David Henne
When entering the public relations industry, knowing how to write correctly is imperative. Knowing how to write in AP style is one of the most essential skills when working in PR. PR 103 helped me learn how to write in AP style and become familiar with the little details needed when writing press releases and other media relations documents. Coming into a job or internship, knowing how to write in AP style will help you make the transition into the workforce more seamless and easy. Because writing is at the core of effective PR communication.
The public relations industry is a fast-paced, ever-changing environment. Specifically, with the rise in advanced technology, knowing how to use social media and analytic tools will aid your work significantly. PR 106 teaches public relations students how to effectively leverage social media platforms to promote their clients and brands. Social media is a powerful tool for building and maintaining relationships with target audiences, and professionals must understand how to use these platforms to their advantage. Additionally, PR 106 covers topics such as search engine optimization (SEO), email marketing, and online advertising. These skills can help PR professionals to create compelling digital campaigns that reach their target audiences and deliver measurable results. Understanding these tools before going into an internship looks impressive to possible employers and is an investment in our educational development.
The Swing Agency has been incredibly beneficial for me when having confidence going into the public relations industry. Swing has given me hands-on, real-world experience leading a team to develop communication strategies and execute campaigns. Working with fellow public relations gives excellent insight into how working at an agency may be in the professional world. This experience is invaluable, allowing us to apply our classroom learning to real-world situations and learn from our successes and failures.
Public speaking was not a class that I was excited to take going into it. But, RHET 007 is incredibly beneficial for public relations professionals. Effective communication is a cornerstone of successful PR. Public speaking skills are essential for PR professionals to deliver powerful presentations, engage with audiences, and effectively communicate their clients' messages. In this class, I learned how to be comfortable talking in front of a room full of people and how to write engaging speeches. Knowing how to effectively public speak has helped me so much when speaking up at meetings and will help me eventually when I have to host a press conference.
Hofstra University has many resources that can help you become the best professional you can be. Knowing where to get these resources can be challenging for some. Getting involved is the most effective way to squeeze out all the help Hofstra can provide its students. You need more than just attending these classes to get everything you want. Participating and getting involved is just as important as showing up.