Sharilynn Speaks - PR Firms: Are They For Me?

Public Relations firms tend to have a very distinct feel to them. In conversing with other communications students I have found that people are either confident in their enthusiasm surrounding someday working in a PR firm, or want absolutely nothing to do with one.

I recently took a trip to New York City with my school’s PRSSA chapter to tour two popular firms: DKC and 5W Public Relations. Being the outgoing fashionista that I am, I knew that I would love to do firm work from the moment that I set foot inside of one last year. While the trip to NYC re-enforced my career goals, not everyone shared the same positive experience.

So, what is one to do if he/she is pursuing a major in public relations with no intention of working in a firm? Relax. After our trip, some students were more interested in managing PR for a sports and entertainment events venue such as Madison Square Garden, and believe it or not even non-profit organizations need PR people. As a matter of fact, one of the professionals at DKC that I spoke to stated, “every PR person should try non-profit at least once in their lifetime.”

Ironically, I’d just secured an internship with a non-profit called Linden Place days before the trip. Linden Place is a historical landmark where generations of historical figured including DeWolfs and Colts resided and is currently used for events such as weddings, wedding receptions, and concerts. In addition to the history behind it, the building has such life and personality to it. Even though I would someday love to work in a firm, I am beyond enthused to assist Linden Place in receiving the publicity that it deserves.

Careers in non-profit tend to be some of the most rewarding, especially as a PR professional with the power to promote a worthy cause. So never fear, there’s a career in PR for every personality, you simply have to find out what it is for you. -Sharilynn Brown