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/
I’m proud to say Revelation PR, Advertising & Social Media received an Award of Excellence in the category of media relations. The judges from the Northeast Wisconsin Chapter noted the “well thought out research” and the “great results in one year” and actually gave enough points to the entry to receive the “Best in Show” award, though that ended up going to another campaign.