My Major Rebrand: Why I Switched from General Business to Advertising and Public Relations

The Start

After graduating from high school, I struggled to find what I was interested in. I was not sure what to choose as my major, let alone the thought of a minor. What do I enjoy doing? What do I want to learn more about? I asked myself many questions the summer before I came to Grand Valley. In my 17-year-old brain, there were only two areas of study to choose from: Health and Business. I ruled out studying anything in Health, as I was set on graduating in 4 years, and I am not much of a science-and-math person. So I chose Business. My mom works in accounting, so I figured I must enjoy the field too. I felt solid about my decision and began my freshman year of college.

The Struggle

I adjusted to college life: living in a 4-by-4 box with a roommate, communal bathrooms, and being independent. I started my classes, diving deeper into their content. One of the courses I took was microeconomics. Now, as a junior in college, I can confirm this was the hardest class I have ever taken. Microeconomics analyzes economics in depth, studying specific and individual markets, and is known for being a more difficult course than macroeconomics. The homework would take me at least 30 minutes each night, on top of studying and my other 4 classes. After a long semester and taking the final exam, I walked out of that classroom with a joy I have never felt before. I knew something was off if I was constantly looking forward to the end of a class for my major. I dreaded my upcoming courses for the following year and was not excited to return to college. That summer after my freshman year, I knew something had to change if I were to continue my education.

The Switch

My extensive Google searches began as I explored every major and program option at Grand Valley. I knew STEM was not for me, and Business was out. This is when I discovered Communications. I realized that I have always had an interest in media, film, and pop culture. This completely new field I did not know existed suddenly felt natural. It felt solid. It felt like me. 

Ultimately, I switched my major that summer. I was very nervous to do so, as I like knowing exactly what I am doing and how to do it. Nevertheless, I stuck to my decision. My sophomore year, I took a basic research course on advertising and public relations, and I immediately knew this was the right field for me. I love being creative and being able to apply that creativity in my courses. I love communicating and thinking critically. I love collaborating with agencies and firms, solving problems, and asking questions. The relief I felt was fantastic.

The Stability

Since making the switch from General Business to Advertising and Public Relations, I have taken multiple major courses, allowing me to further understand the degree and apply what I learn to reality. I have also joined GVPRSSA (Grand Valley Public Relations Student Society of America), as well as GrandPR, Grand Valley’s own student-run public relations firm. I currently serve as the Chief Experiences Officer of GrandPR for the 2026-2027 school year, where I plan activities and events for our members, along with catering and being the designated liaison between GrandPR and GVPRSSA. Joining these clubs and extracurriculars has transformed my college career in Communications. I am now able to utilize what I learn from class in practical scenarios and with real clients. And the best part: I get to make friends with other college students who are on the same path as me.

The shift from feeling overwhelmed and unexcited to wanting to learn more and try everything has been wonderful. I do not know how to do everything, and there will always be something new to discover, but I know that I will continue to show up and try my very best. I have developed my skills and capabilities substantially in the Ad/PR world and am pleased to say that I am excited to continue my college education and begin my upcoming career.

Emma Thornton is a junior majoring in Advertising and Public Relations. She serves as the Chief Experiences Officer (CXO) of GrandPR, where she coordinates and caters main club events and bonding activities. As CXO, Emma is the liaison between GrandPR and GVPRSSA, ensuring communication is strong and the teams are aligned. Outside of GrandPR, Emma also works for the Lanthorn Newspaper at GVSU as the Public Relations Manager. After graduation, she plans to move to the city and pursue her love of Public Relations as a young adult.