Skip links

Share

Sayonara via Platform

Published on April 28, 2016, at 3:50 p.m.
by Kelley Breeding.

Dear Newbies,

The time is drawing near for the Class of 2016 to graduate. As sad as it is, we know we must move forward. These past four years have taught us more than what we have learned in the classroom alone. We learned our way around campus, how to make new friends, how to study for those “impossible” exams and how to cook our own food … well, some of us.

I know I speak for all of us when I say that it seems like yesterday my parents were moving me into the freshman dorm. Now here we are — looking back on everything we have done, everything we wish we did and everything we probably should have never considered.

As seniors in the 2016 Platform Magazine class, we have discussed some advice we would like to share for those beginning in public relations (or really any major for that matter). This is advice that we wish we would have taken.

Mackenzie Ross’s advice is to not be afraid to dream big. She also mentions, “Get to know your professors. They have the connections to help you succeed both in the classroom and outside the classroom. Plus, they’re a wealth of knowledge when it comes to navigating the ever-changing world of PR.” I can’t stress this enough myself. There have been numerous times this semester where I have received help from my professors. I wish I had been getting their help all along. The professors really do want to see you succeed.

Eliza Sheffield, Rachel Chandler and Drew Pendleton all said that getting involved from the start is very important. Chandler specifically suggested getting out of your comfort zone and trying new things like studying abroad or signing up for an out-of-town conference. Really anything that will expand your horizon can be a good investment in your personal and professional development.

As for public relations, Sheffield said, “It would have been helpful to know that PR is set up differently than some majors: It’s less about learning information and more about learning through practicing and developing your skills.”

The most important thing to understand is to not be afraid to ask for help. When I entered college, I tried to conquer it all by myself in order to show that I could. Looking back, I wish I would have reached out to others more because, in the grand scheme of things, we all really do benefit from each other.

We wish you the very best and hope our advice helps you excel in your college career. Get excited because it truly is the best four years of your life.

Always,

Platform Magazine, Class of 2016

Spring 2016 Platform Magazine Editorial Team
Spring 2016 Platform Magazine Editorial Team
Return to top of page