The study of communications and public relations can feel broad. Studying these topics when other students are studying chemistry or psychology can make it seem like you’ve ventured into the unknown. Some suggest we may have only been studying communications formally in universities for the past 100 years, which is quite brief considering we’ve been communicating since the beginning of time. In fact, communication is as integral to human life as food, water, or shelter. We need to communicate with one another for a fulfilled life.
In communications and public relations programs, we are required to take practical classes. We often think about the new, groundbreaking careers that our studies make possible. There are few careers younger than a “social media manager.” We understand that having a strong communications person on a team can change the trajectory of a company. There is value in the work we do.
What is communication at its very core? To realize communication pre-modern technology, I think back to prehistoric times. For example, a group of cavepeople devoid of modern language, yet still communicate with each other through noises and expressions. Communication has continuously evolved alongside our societies. Digital images and messages are modernized versions of cave paintings, shared worldwide, lasting forever.
While in practice our work seems straightforward, create a communications plan and execute it, we may fail to realize how complicated and important our work truly is. Without the field of communications, there would be no media. The transmission of information is essential to our modern lives, and it is impossible without communication.
Canadian Philosopher Marshall McLuhan once wrote, “In this electronic age, we see ourselves being translated more and more into the form of information, moving toward the technological extension of consciousness.”
He speaks to society, but also to those who study and dedicate their lives to the progression of this field. McLuhan says that in our world, information is king. We exist in a way that means our technologies are extensions of who we are at our core. Communication is the mediation of this function.
To communications and public relations professionals: Do not underestimate the importance of your work. Communication is imbued in every aspect of our lives. While the study of sciences or math may seem to lead toward well-established, clear career paths, the study of communications is intrinsic to the functioning of society. Be a pioneer of the unknown. Without professionals who have extensive knowledge in the field, we might be lost.
Article by: Taryn Martin
Edited by: Emma McCluskey
