Over the years, we at Buchanan PR have had the opportunity to work with a number of talented college students and recent grads interested in exploring careers in public relations. These interns have gone on to do amazing things and have some pretty great tips for those looking to break into the field. Our new blog series, “Where Are They Now?,” will highlight the career trajectories of former BPR interns – showcasing what they have accomplished since their time with us, their biggest take-aways from their experiences here and their advice for those just starting out.
Our first submission is from former intern, Jeff Puklin, who worked with us during the fall of 2011. A Muhlenberg College graduate, Jeff currently serves as New Media Producer at Connecticut College:
Question #1: Where are you living and what is your current job title?
Answer: I am currently living in Mystic, CT and working as the New Media Producer at Connecticut College.
Question #2: What is the most important or valuable lesson you learned during your internship with BPR?
Answer: The most valuable lesson I learned during my internship at BPR was that dogs aren’t just (wo)man’s best friend, they’re also (wo)man’s best colleague.
In all seriousness, the most valuable lesson I learned was that it is important to listen to your client. Successful PR is a collaborative effort, and in order to turn out a meaningful product, collaboration must take place between the client and agency. At BPR, I learned this firsthand – from our weekly meetings, brainstorming sessions and conference calls. BPR’s close-knit community (dogs included!) made facilitating information to each other and to clients a seamless form of communication. I have been able to use this approach in my new career working in the marketing communications office at Connecticut College.
Question #3: What advice would you give to someone just starting out on a public relations career path?
Answer: The advice I would give to someone starting out in PR would be to learn as much as you can, from as many people as you can. You don’t have to act like you know everything – it’s OK to not have all the answers. PR can be overwhelming at times, especially in the age of social media and information sharing. While college might be over, you never stop being a student.
Thanks so much to Jeff for being the inaugural contributor to “Where Are They Now.” To read a recent blog post he authored on utilizing social media in college and university crisis communications, click here: http://bit.ly/TsSB5j.
So, what do you think? Does Jeff’s advice resonate with those of you who have had prior internships in PR? What would you add? Stay tuned for our next “Where Are They Now” post.