From Law Grad to PR Assistant: Everything I have learnt so far

Like many people, I left university uncertain about my future. I had a degree in law but was sure that the path I was on wasn’t quite fit for me.

After months of reflection, research, and a fair bit of trial and error, I discovered PR and realised it combined everything I loved: writing, creativity, strategy, and storytelling. I knew it was the right career choice for me.

But my path into this industry wasn’t an easy one. Without a degree in PR or marketing, I had no idea how to actually get my foot in the door. But now, a year later, I have managed to secure a full-time position in an agency I’m proud to represent, so here is everything I have learnt:

You don’t need a degree in PR. But you do need to learn the landscape.

One of the first things I did after deciding to pivot away from law was take courses in public relations and digital marketing. I wanted to understand the industry properly. Not just from a textbook, but from the people who have made a career of it. These courses gave me a foundation in the terminology, the tools, and the way PR fits into the bigger picture of brand communication.

In addition to this, I built my own website and blog where I wrote about a topic that was of interest to me. It was a space to practice my writing, experiment with tone, and show that I could tell a story and engage an audience. This experience helped me a lot in those first few months of my internship.

Building relationships is essential.

In the year following my graduation, I applied to a lot of jobs. And like many others trying to break into a competitive industry, I heard crickets more times than I can count.

Eventually, I decided to stop waiting for a “yes” and started having conversations instead. I made a list of local PR agencies I liked the look of, researched the kind of work they did, and reached out. Not to ask for a job, but for advice, insights, or any kind of experience they could offer.

That’s what led me to Empica, where I now work as a PR assistant. One conversation led to another and, before I knew it, I was gaining hands-on experience in the industry I’d worked so hard to break into.

Undoubtedly, this strategy won’t work for everyone. But it’s a good starting point. PR is all about building relationships and it’s very rare you’ll come across someone in the industry who isn’t happy to talk with you. Even with the agencies I didn’t manage to secure experience with, I gained valuable advice that helped me continue along this path.

What the industry has taught me so far

PR is so much more than writing press releases and pursuing media coverage. It’s strategy, storytelling, content creation, reputation management, and relationship building. No two days are the same and that’s one of the things I love most about it.

The best opportunities come from being proactive. Sending a cold email might feel intimidating, but it can be a game-changer. Show genuine interest, ask thoughtful questions, and be open to learning.

You don’t need to be perfect to start. I used to think that I had to have all the right experience and knowledge to do well in a role. What I’ve realised is that initiative, curiosity, and a willingness to learn often matter more.

Your writing is really your strongest asset. Whether it’s a press release, a blog, or a short social post – clarity and tone are everything. Practice often and don’t underestimate the power of a well-written sentence.

For anyone trying to break into PR right now

If you’re trying to break into PR, I’ve been there. It can feel overwhelming and sometimes disheartening when doors remain closed to you. But don’t let it discourage you. Take online courses, start a blog, follow PR professionals on LinkedIn, reach out to people whose work you admire, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Looking back, every cold email, online course and unanswered application played a part in getting me here and I’m grateful for all the learning experiences that period of my life provided me with. Moving from intern to assistant was a huge milestone and while I’m still early in my journey, I’m excited for what’s ahead.