Path to Prosek: From PA to AAE – Caroline Coghlin
Prosek Partners’ Post Graduate Apprentice (PA) program is designed for recent college graduates who are interested in starting a career in public relations. The 4-month program offers post graduate students the opportunity to launch their careers in financial communications.
We’re proud to see many of our PAs become full-time Prosekians, with many staying with us throughout their careers! We recently had several of our summer PAs get hired as Assistant Account Executives and we asked them a bit about their experiences and are excited to share their stories in our new PA Path to Prosek series.
First up, Caroline Coghlin who is based in our Boston office:
What has your experience at Prosek been like thus far?
The PA program was the perfect segue into the working world. Although I majored in public relations, I had never applied my skillset to real life situations. Through firsthand experience, I learned about the media landscape, media relations, client communications, how to read the news cycle and more. From day one, Prosek did a great job of immersing me into the firm’s culture and the industry as a whole.
The five months I’ve spent at Prosek have been nothing short of great. Every day, I have the opportunity to learn something new while building relationships that will last a lifetime. I couldn’t have picked a better agency to begin my post-grad journey at!
Why would you recommend others join the PA program?
The PA program was not only a great way to kickstart my career in public relations, but it also helped me to understand if this path was the right fit for me. The PR industry can be hectic and competitive, but the work is also rewarding and exciting. Over the course of four months, I learned the ins and outs of the media landscape, how to foster relations with clients and journalists as well as the best practices for responding to the news—all while building more confidence.
What have you learned so far?
One of the top things I’ve learned is how to foster meaningful relationships and connections in the virtual world. When I first started, I was nervous because we were entirely virtual. I’m a people person and love having the opportunity to collaborate with others. Within days of working at Prosek, I realized my team members also valued the same things that I do. I’ve been at the agency for five months and not a day has gone by where I feel like I’m on my own. Whether it’s catching up after the weekend or brainstorming a client ask, Prosekians are in constant communication, which is something I value and love.
What has been your top moment at Prosek thus far?
My top moment at Prosek thus far is successfully completing the PA program. Prior to starting, I made it a personal goal to be promoted within four months. I knew that with hard work and dedication this could be achieved, but I also knew that I wouldn’t be able to accomplish this goal without the guidance and support of my team members. I’m lucky to be on accounts with other hardworking individuals who also know how to take a step back and have fun! 