Every company needs a publicity team. When recruiting new employees for such a task, what major usually appeals most to employers (Advertising or Public Relations)?
All my life I have wanted to represent companies with with press and Advertising, but so few colleges have advertising as a major. Whenever I say I want to go into advertising, adults wince. For these reasons I am a little hesitant to pursue this major. It would be so nice to hear from people who graduated with an advertising major and had to find jobs afterwards. #advertising
3 answers
Gina’s Answer
Carrie’s Answer
You can still pursue advertising but with a broader college major. For example, Business/Marketing (since advertising is an area within marketing), or another option is Communications or Business Communications. I got my undergraduate degree in Business (focused on Marketing), and then pursued my Master's Degree while working (and employer paid for), in Communications. That degree focused a lot on Public Relations, Advertising etc. That said, the value of an MBA is great so you may consider pursuing Communications degree undergrad and then go for your MBA...
Whichever path you choose for education, your other choices will also help you. Finding internships and on campus work etc. Most colleges have their own marketing/pr departments and you could offer to volunteer there, or you could find a paid summer internship in many industries. Sales is also a great starting point as these jobs are always in need an you will learn a lot about the economics of advertising!
I hope this helps. I have worked in various marketing roles (including digital marketing, crm, sales, social media, and now marketing strategy) for my entire career, and each helped me build my resume and inform my next job pursuit.
All the best!
Gregory’s Answer
Melanie,
I would have to say I'm proof that if you follow your dream and go into advertising you can and will end up with a job in a field you love. It's a wonderful feeling to wake up everyday to do a job you truly love! Feel free to reach to me with any other questions you may have!
Greg