Let Your Passions Guide You

Let Your Passions Guide You

By Shagah Zakerion

As the current public relations intern for the Norman Arts Council, I did not have to look far to find a PR practitioner to interview. Holly Jones, now working as a public relations specialist for the University Of Oklahoma Weitzenhoffer Family College Of Fine Arts, worked for the Norman Arts Council for several years before taking the job at OU. Even though she has left the arts council behind, Holly still serves as the public relations coordinator on the committee for the Norman Music Festival. There is no doubt that Holly’s passion for art has paved the road for her career.

“I have always loved creating art, writing and talking with people. I went into PR because it was a field where I would be able to promote causes that I support,” Holly said.

Graduating from OU with a BA in Journalism and AAS in Photography, Holly worked a slew of jobs before ever entering the field of PR. She started in retail management, spent two years in journalism, worked as a library assistant and finally found her place in public relations just a few years ago. Her first experience was with the Norman Arts council, where she worked for a year and half as an intern.

“I took an internship with the Norman Arts Council where I was exposed to how a community comes together to help support and build the arts,” Holly said. After her time with the NAC, Holly had found her niche in not only public relations, but in promoting the work of those in the arts. And, Holly says she really enjoys working for the College of Fine Arts because she gets to do just that.

“I love being able to promote what our students and faculty create,” Holly said. “There are always fresh and creative ideas coming from our college, it is a great environment to work in.”

Holly has been lucky enough to work in a field she likes so much, and for her, it was an easy fit. With her history in journalism and as a library assistant, she already had many of the skills she considers the most needed for any PR professional: creative writing skills, AP style and the ability to research well.

I have had the pleasure of working with Holly for several years and she serves as a great leader and role model for me. Above everything, Holly gave me the opportunity to work for the Norman Music Festival, which eventually got me the job I have today—something she says is advice any PR professional should take to heart.

“To be successful, you have to take risks and make connections,” Holly said. “Take internships in your fields of interest and use those opportunities to find ways to get a head.”

For Holly, her passions guided her to the career she has today and she serves as a great example for all aspiring PR professionals to emulate.

Photo by Lindsey Allgood