By Kelsea Arbour
When we last left off, I sent out 157 job applications, faced some rejections, and learned that breaking into the public relations industry wasn’t just about education and experience – it was also about building meaningful connections. While networking events and the CPRS mentorship program were a great help in putting my name out there, I knew demonstrating my skills and initiative would ultimately open the right doors.
One of the best pieces of advice that I can offer to PR students and recent grads is this: every interaction is an opportunity - whether it is to showcase your skills, your work ethic, or your willingness to learn and grow. You never know who is watching or what connections might lead to a job.
Through my professors at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, I was introduced to Arlene, the Director of External Communications at FortisBC. In addition to working at FortisBC, Arlene serves on the Board of Making Tomorrow Better, a nonprofit organization, and was looking for assistance in marketing an upcoming fundraising event. My professor recommended me for the role. While this wasn’t a job offer, I saw it as an opportunity to demonstrate my skillset and work ethic in a real-world setting. I hit the ground running with this project by applying my PR and communication skills to create an in-depth social media strategy, promotional materials, engage the right audience, and support media outreach.
Arlene was able to see my abilities firsthand, and later, she offered me a position at FortisBC as a communications specialist. She mentioned what stood out to her was my initiative – a word that has consistently defined my journey.
That’s why I believe stepping up with your full potential in everything you do matters - not just for the chance that someone influential might notice, but because of what it does for you. There’s a quiet confidence that comes from knowing you gave your all, regardless of the outcome. Whether it's a volunteer role, a classroom presentation, or a small task that no one else wanted to take on, when you commit fully, you’re building your resume and you’re building your character. And that kind of consistency has a way of making doors open, often when you least expect it.
Looking back, I now see that each moment I chose to show up with an eager and willing attitude added up to something meaningful. For those navigating the early days of their PR careers: stay curious, stay proactive, and keep showing up. Showing up isn’t just preparation for opportunity; it’s how you become the person who’s ready to seize it.