How Switching My Major to PR Changed Everything

By: Natalie Campisi

When I first started college, I had no clear direction for the path I wanted to take. Like most freshmen, I was just trying to find my place and explore which majors aligned with my interests. The one thing I did know was that I love creative writing and expressing ideas through words. That passion of mine led me to major in journalism, since it seemed like the natural path for someone who enjoys storytelling. 

As I delved deeper into journalism, I began to realize that my interests stretched beyond simply reporting facts. I was drawn to the idea of crafting messages, connecting with audiences, and uncovering the broader purpose of communication. That’s when I began to understand that my passions aligned better with public relations–a field that balances creativity with strategy and gives writing a whole new purpose– so I switched my major from journalism to public relations. 

Everything clicked when I took CM215: Introduction to Public Relations. It was my first real glimpse of the PR world, where I discovered the art of media relations, campaign planning, and crisis communication. What truly surprised me was the amount of collaboration and real-world thinking the class involved. I began to understand how PR professionals serve as the bridge between organizations and the public – that’s when I knew I had made the right choice.

Now, as a sophomore majoring in PR, I feel like I’ve found my place. Every class grows my interest in communication and strategy, and I’m already thinking about internships and future career paths. I love that PR allows me to be both analytical and creative, allowing me to craft messages that make an impact while also thinking about audience perception and brand reputation.

Looking back, switching my major to public relations was one of the best decisions I’ve made in college. It taught me that it’s okay to change direction and follow what truly excites you. If you’re someone who loves writing, creativity, and connecting with people, PR might just be the perfect fit too.