How to Build a PR Career Without a Communications Degree

If you're a strong writer, consider a career in PR/Comms! I made it in this business without a Communications degree, and I'll show you how to do it, too. 

I didn't get a Communications degree in college because I didn't know what that meant. I'm from North Carolina, not exactly a media industry hub, so I didn't know anyone who worked in PR, Journalism, or Corporate Communications. I majored in Psychology because I was (am) curious about people, and it actually comes in handy every day! 

I started working in mental health after college, but before I finished graduate school, I discovered I felt more LIT ON FIRE by writing, traveling, and promoting local bands. I followed the fire, publishing articles and interviews in local arts publications and later moving to LA to figure out how to make my newfound skill (writing to promote artists) into a career.

With my writing samples in hand, I applied for every possible internship and landed one in Music PR, which I quickly discovered was a way more viable career choice than any kind of journalism (sadly). I had to be assertive in asking for a chance, and when I got one, I humbly listened and soaked up all the learning I possibly could.

After a year of unpaid internship while waiting tables nights and weekends, I again had to be assertive in asking to be hired for an entry-level role. I was clear about what skills I'd gained so far and humbly asked what I'd still need to be employable. And it worked! I landed my first Publicist job, quit waitressing (finally, after TWELVE YEARS) and worked in Music PR for the next couple of years.

During the pandemic, I became unemployed with a newborn, so I started freelancing for my own indie clients from home. I didn't make any money from that business, but I learned way more than I would have by staying at a traditional agency because I could guide my own way. Being resourceful came in handy here; I’d listen to industry podcasts in the car on the way to drop off my baby for a few hours, then implement the teachings the same day. I read industry blogs, followed social media accounts of agencies and publicists I looked up to, and temporarily worked as an independent contractor to a couple industry veterans. Having my own clients allowed me to work half-days until my son turned 2 and started daycare.

At that point, Music PR was dying and I was losing interest in it, so I pivoted to Corporate Communications (aka representing businesses and nonprofits) and learned a whole new field!

Now I’m well-paid as the in-house PR person for an advertising agency in Hollywood, and I couldn’t be happier. I maintain a beginner’s mind because there’s always more to learn about this industry and best practices. And the best part is reaching out a hand to up-and-comers like you the way other publicists reached out their hand to me when I started. You’re the best part of my career.

So to recap, the path is: