Behind the Pen: My Journey Navigating the World of PR
Two years into earning my degree, I walked into the tattoo parlor with an idea: a sword where the tip is a felt pen. This would be the first tattoo that didn't have a sentimental meaning or pay tribute to a family member. It would embody my curiosities as a writer. There is a saying “the pen is mightier than the sword,” at times I’ve wondered “why does one have to be mightier than the other?” There shouldn’t be a clear divide between brain and brawn; they should go hand in hand. In most cases, the pen is the sword, bringing a forceful impact on the people in this world and what they believe in.
As a Public Relations major, there is a lot of inventive language involved in earning my degree. During my time as a student, I’ve journeyed through the world of PR, English and Journalism. My journey began freshman year with my desire to understand the intricate dance between words and actions. I fell in love with the study of media analysis and strategic communication. I was, and still am, fascinated by the power of words and how much change can be made with its craft.
Most of my work retains a certain level of professionalism while simultaneously harmonizing with creativity. Writing from a PR standpoint, there is a mass audience for me to reach, whether it's in a social media campaign or event planning. The key takeaway: know your audience. Between the lines of each speech, press release and newsletter, there lies a science. Behavioral economics provides professionals with an understanding of human behavior and decision making. By studying behavioral patterns and preferences, messages can be tailored to resonate with the target audience. This is crucial for PR professionals to understand, as it allows us to seamlessly transmit the most important information to our desired audience.
In the realm of PR, there exists a world where words hold the power to shape perception while building bridges between people and ideas. In this area, communication is not merely a tool but an art form. Writing is more than just stringing a few sentences together on a page. There is a delicate balance of creativity and strategy, empathy and persuasion. As a writer, my role stretches further than just words on a piece of paper. During my time as a PR student, I’ve created branding for a Japanese jewelry company, held fundraisers for a non-profit bereavement organization, and planned large on-campus events for the community. Whether I’m drafting a press release for an event or composing social media posts to generate publicity, I constantly harness the power of words to shape the audience's perception, while driving a meaningful change.
Perhaps the most rewarding part of my journey as a PR student are the chances to witness the impact of my words firsthand. Recently, I helped plan and coordinate an event that hosted over 120 young girls to teach them upstander communication skills and character strengths. I designed the logo for the event and was the voice of the event for all visiting media. One year ago, I helped create the idea for a “Self-Care Summit,” an on-campus event that to address mental health issues in our society today. Two years ago, I planned and worked a fundraiser for a local organization that aids families and mothers who have recently lost an infant. Seeing the effect my work has on our youth and my community has allowed my ideas to transform into reality. And to know that in this limitless and ever-changing world, my voice- however small- has the power to make a difference.
I am reminded time and time again of the responsibility that comes with this profession, one I do not take lightly. I understand words have the power to change the world one stroke at a time.
As graduation nears, I enter the next chapter of my life as a PR professional and writer with a sense of purpose and determination. Armed with my sword, I am ready to craft connections, forge bonds, and shape the future of PR--one word at a time.
