It’s official. I’m now Accredited in Public Relations (APR) and get those three letters behind my name. Having the APR designation means that I have proven my knowledge and ability in communications theory and its application; that I’ve established advanced capabilities in research, strategic planning, implementation and evaluation; and that I’ve demonstrated a commitment to professional excellence and ethical conduct.
I have to say, it was a long journey. I began with a “Jump Start” program to familiarize myself with the process in April 2009. My son was two months old at the time, and I mistakenly thought studying and being a new parent would work together. Nope!
Developing a campaign from start to finish, and then presenting it in front of a panel, made me a better practitioner because I learned the theories of PR and the importance of research, amongst a long list of things.
Studying was not easy, especially since I have been out of school for almost 10 years, and my senior year was comprised mostly of group projects and papers, not tests. After I completed the four-hour multiple choice exam, I could feel my heart racing as the computer tabulated my score.
I just sat there for several minutes in happy reflection of the past two years when I saw the word “Pass.”
Now it’s time to order new business cards!
For more information, please visit: http://www.prsa.org/Learning/Accreditation/