My name is Sydney, and I've just completed my first week as a PR apprentice at Branagh PR. Coming from an academic background in Sociology, this has been a completely new experience – but one that’s already proving to be both exciting and rewarding.

Writing has always been one of my strongest skills, and English was my favourite subject throughout school. However, stepping into PR has challenged me to think about writing in a new way. One of the most exciting aspects of my first week in PR has been the variety of topics I've worked on; every task has introduced me to something new. It’s a refreshing change from academic work, where research is often focused on a single subject for an extended period.

What I’ve enjoyed most is how research in PR is not just about gathering information but understanding how to communicate it effectively, and every topic comes with its own unique audience and purpose. It’s been a challenge to shift away from long, structured arguments to more concise, engaging messaging, but it’s one I've enjoyed tackling.



Despite the differences, my academic background has been useful. The ability to research thoroughly, construct a strong narrative and adapt writing for different contexts are all skills that transfer well into PR.

The main adjustment has been learning to write with a specific audience in mind. Each audience is unique, and the process of figuring out how best to connect with them keeps the work interesting and engaging. It’s a new way of thinking about writing, and I'm excited to further improve my skills.

My first week as a PR apprentice has been a fast-paced introduction to the industry. I’ve already learned so much about adapting my writing, researching diverse topics, and thinking about communication in a more strategic way. Looking ahead, I'm excited to continue developing my skills and gaining more experience in the field. I also look forward to beginning my apprenticeship at the PRCA, where I'll gain a deeper understanding of the industry while applying what I learn to my work with Tim at Branagh PR.

This combination of structured learning alongside hands-on experience is a fantastic opportunity, and I'm eager to see how my skills develop over the coming months. My first week has shown me just how much there is to learn in PR, and I'm looking forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.