For many students, picking classes each semester is as automatic as selecting the next courses on your critical tracking audit. However, as students in a major as competitive as public relations, it is important to diversify yourself from the students sitting on either side of you in class. In a major as multifaceted as PR, it is crucial for you to have a variety of skills in order to be as marketable as possible. UF has a lot of opportunities to offer students, including courses that may not be in the PR department.
One of the very popular and helpful courses for PR students is MMC 3260, Communications on the Internet. In a society that revolves around technology, being able to communicate over the Internet is a vital skill to have. This course focuses on the concept of “mediamorphosis” and how it relates to journalism, advertising, telecommunications and public relations careers. Students in this class build websites as well as learn about web design using Cascading Stylesheets, basic HTML coding and basic Photoshop.
If you are interested in working in a specific area of public relations, I suggest you take classes that will help you specialize in that field. It is important to have background knowledge in your specialization. In addition, it will help you decide whether or not you actually enjoy working in that area. For example, if you are interested in working in healthcare PR, you could look into taking Foundations of Health Education, HSC 3032, Personal and Family Health, HSC 3102, or Health and Medical Technology, HSC 3537.
In an increasingly competitive marketplace, try your best to diversify your portfolio and resume in order to maximize your job opportunities. Research classes that peak your interest and don’t be afraid to step outside of your “critical tracking” comfort zone.
