By Geoff Curtis
I remember my first internship my sophomore year in college. It was my first experience in a corporate office, and I had no roadmap for that world. I didn’t know how to navigate conversations, how to network or how to carry myself. I was lost and was too intimidated to ask for help.
Fast forward to my first job after college and I was equally as lost. I told myself I would figure it out through sheer determination, and I did, eventually. I knew I could outwork everyone, and more importantly, I knew that’s what I had to do early in my career. But looking back, I realize I made things unnecessarily harder by refusing to ask for help and refusing to put more energy into learning how to better navigate corporate life. I thought seeking assistance exposed weakness or gaps in my knowledge. That mindset forced me to take on more work and isolated me from the people who could have accelerated my growth.
I am a proud first-generation college graduate and while sometimes difficult, my career and life experiences shaped everything about who I am today. I want my experiences to provide a guide for all first-generation college graduates that come after me. I see you, I’ve been you, and I’m committed to helping you learn from my experiences.
Perspective is Your Superpower
Here’s what I wish someone had told me on day one: your first-gen experience isn’t a deficit to overcome; it’s a competitive advantage – an experience to amplify. In PR, storytelling is currency, and your lived stories that matter. You understand multiple audiences because you’ve likely been moving between different environments your entire life. The PR industry is seeking professionals who can navigate nuance, have a strong work ethic and craft messages that resonate across communities. You already possess this skill set. Your job now is to amplify it, own it, and leverage it unapologetically.
Access Resources with Confidence
One of my biggest mistakes was not accessing available resources because I didn’t want to seem like I needed help. The truth? Accessing career services, mentorship programs, and alumni networks isn’t weakness, it’s strategic career management. Successful professionals leverage every available resource. Community matters. Start now, not senior year. Join professional organizations. Ask questions. Work in teams. Learn from others. Be the CEO of YOU.
Build Networks that Build You
Networking initially felt foreign to me because I didn’t understand it was about building genuine relationships. I didn’t figure out its true power until about a decade into my career. Start with your professors, classmates, and alumni working in PR. Attend industry events and conferences. Send thoughtful LinkedIn messages. But this is critical: networking doesn’t end once you land a job. The most successful professionals continuously nurture and grow their networks throughout their careers.
My Commitment
I struggled with confidence and belonging throughout my career – feelings you might recognize. I’m invested in your success because our industry needs your voice. I’m here to demystify the corporate world, provide honest guidance, and champion your growth. You belong here as did I. I’m here to help, now let’s build the career you deserve.
Geoff Curtis is the former executive vice president, corporate affairs and chief communications officer at Horizon Therapeutics. During his nearly 30-year health care communications career, he has worked domestically and internationally in various roles on both the client and agency side. Geoff is a committed mentor and coach to young professionals and undergraduate college students, and is an avid philanthropist committed to education equity and access.