The Next Chapter: 3 Things I Would Tell Graduating Communications and Marketing Students

Graduating with my bachelor’s degree in Public Relations nearly four years ago, I find myself reflecting on my time since and considering the ways I’ve learned and grown. There are ways that I’ve found myself prepared for post-grad life, but there are also some areas that I wish I had placed more attention.

To graduating students, embarking on the next chapter of their professional lives in communications and marketing, I offer three simple pieces of advice that have proven instrumental in shaping my own trajectory.

I. Start and Maintain Your Portfolio

Your portfolio is your professional showcase, the tangible evidence of your skills and achievements in the field of marketing and communications. As a graduating student, now is the perfect time to start curating and maintaining it. Whether it’s through internships, class projects, or freelance work, gather your best pieces and organize them thoughtfully.

While in college, I had a strong start with this discipline, but over time, maintaining a portfolio of my work became more difficult. Between working, attempting to schedule in rest and relaxation, prioritizing my physical health—oh, and then having a baby, I let this task fall off my radar. It wasn’t until I began more heavily delving into freelance work as of late that I forced myself to wrack my brain, pore over my LinkedIn posts, and scroll through my endless camera roll to find visuals for project that I’d worked on since I last touched my portfolio. I spent far too many hours playing catch up on this.

Instead, what I would recommend is scheduling into your calendar a recurring reminder to update your portfolio. I have a reminder scheduled once every month to check in and see if I need to add anything or make changes. This makes it far more manageable for me.

Remember, your portfolio isn’t just about displaying finished products; it’s also about showcasing your process, problem-solving abilities, and growth over time. Include a variety of mediums—from writing samples to design projects, social media campaigns to video productions—to demonstrate your versatility. Not every project needs to be included, only the best or those you’re most proud to showcase.

Seek feedback on your portfolio from mentors, peers, and industry professionals. Treat it as a dynamic document that evolves alongside your career. Your portfolio will not only serve as a powerful tool for securing work opportunities or clients but also as a personal reflection of your career journey.

II. Embrace Continuous Learning

In the ever-evolving landscape of communications, one thing remains constant: the need for continuous learning. As you embark on your career journey, make a commitment to invest in your professional development. This not only makes you a better communicator and marketer but also sets you apart.

Stay informed about emerging trends, technologies, and best practices within the industry. Attend workshops and webinars to expand your knowledge and learn from experts in the field. Consider pursuing certifications or further education to deepen your expertise in specific areas of interest.

Don’t forget: these things don’t always have to cost anything out of pocket. There are many free online resources, courses, webinars, and trainings that will assist in making you a more well-rounded professional.

Further, don’t underestimate the value of learning from experience. Embrace every opportunity—successes and failures alike—as valuable learning moments. Seek out mentors who can offer guidance and share their insights gained through years of experience.

By making continuous learning a priority, you’ll not only stay relevant in a competitive field but also position yourself as a proactive and adaptable professional ready to tackle new challenges head-on.

III. Be Bold

It’s essential to be fearless—in any industry.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help, insight, or advice from colleagues or industry professionals. Additionally, don’t be afraid to seek opportunities. Ask if you can sit in on and observe meetings that you don’t normally participate in, attend an event that you haven’t gotten to before, or ask to sit with and make conversation with total strangers when going to an event or somewhere new.

On a more granular level, send a pitch of your services with confidence, contribute thoughtfully in meetings, and don’t shy away from taking on projects that will further your development. Confidence in your abilities and a willingness to take initiative will set you apart always.

The worst that anyone can tell you is “no,” and personally, I don’t think that’s enough to stop me from simply asking.

Ultimately, being bold isn’t just about making a statement—it’s about seizing opportunities, embracing challenges, and charting your own path to success.

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I hope that as you set out on your professional journey, you have a sense of confidence in your abilities. As you embark on your own journey, remember that the road ahead will be filled with twists, turns, and unexpected opportunities. By starting and maintaining a compelling portfolio, embracing continuous learning, and being bold in your endeavors, you’re not just existing in the workforce—you’re carving out your own path toward success.

Here’s to your next chapter—may it be filled with endless possibilities and unparalleled achievements!