Expert: Peter Gabany - 4/12/2009

Question
HI
I am 16 years old and planning ahead for my college major and future career. I love writing (creative not journalism) and doing projects!  I thought Advertising, PR (not exactly sure what that is though), screen/play writing and even Event Planning would all be up my alley. I am focusing on small private (& Christian) colleges. So, I am looking into being a Comm Arts Major- but it must have a Writing emphasis (non-Journalism). I feel like the college must also offer a few Marketing classes, and a couple PR classes. Am I on the right path? I want to have options at the same school so I won't have to transfer.  It sure seems like it is hard out there right now.
Thank you,
Madison

Answer
Madison,

Thank you for your question. I wish to first voice my concern over Christian-based schools. I for one am one that said, in this industry you need the very best to get anywhere. It is a demanding job. It is fraught with challenges and competition. You have got to be outgoing and at least pleasantly demanding. There are schools that teach writing skills and yes non-journalistic. But it is wise to go to BEST school in communications - from what I have heard Northwestern has the best program in the US. But I have heard great things of University of Texas. http://advertising.utexas.edu/world/ (Check it out - an invaluable resource).

Don't shun journalism school - the ability to interview, to look for and find the story is an invaluable tool today in both PR and Advertising and don't rule out design. Design agencies are in dire need of content for brochures and websites - I recommend that you consider serving any one of those types of organizations. If then you choose to serve the Christian community then great - go for it.

By the way, if you look up the Age of Persuasion on CBC.ca there is a great podcast by Terry O'Reilly who speaks quite well of the efforts of assorted religious communities working to sell in their respective churches.

It is tough out there right now. But you are what you make it. be well and let me know of your desires and choices and ask again.

Pete