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Step 1
Determine what you want to do with your degree and find the school that provides that training. Students who like working as generalists for corporate firms may fit best in schools with integrated communications departments or those that emphasize PR as a practice. Students who plan to attend graduate school should apply to schools that include communications theory and research in undergraduate offerings.
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Step 2
Hone your writing skills. Many departments train PR students to think like reporters. Use of the "Associated Press Style Manual" may be emphasized. Errors in grammar, spelling, punctuation and fact often are fatal.
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Step 3
Follow instructions meticulously. This major is for detail-oriented, deadline driven students. Work must be immaculate upon submission and never late. Creativity is a necessary but not sufficient attribute for success in this major. Accuracy is imperative.
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Step 4
Build a portfolio. If you create original pieces during a course, correct any errors and reproduce the pieces as finished work as soon as you complete the course. Creating a portfolio as you go is much easier than trying to assemble one during your last semester.
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Step 5
Learn to work well in a group. Many courses require research projects or campaigns that cannot be completed without the cooperation of a whole team. Be a significant contributor but not a control freak. Much PR work in the “real world” really is collaborative. Use these projects to develop ability to work well in a group.
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Step 6
Get an internship. Working in a public relations department while you are taking courses helps tremendously. Not only does it help a recent graduate win an entry-level position, it brings to life the concepts discusses in the classroom.
