Written by Madeline Burmeister
Thinking about life after graduation can seem daunting, especially when you’re unsure about your career. Amy Kyllo, ’22, Public Relations major, felt the same way as she neared her graduation date, but she managed to start her professional job in the Public Relations field shortly after receiving her degree. A story full of academic dedication and a passion for dairy farms—Kyllo’s journey stands as an inspiration for all students.
This is Kyllo’s third year working at Star Publications. The company is an agriculture-based newspaper located in Saux Center, Minnesota, and Kyllo works specifically for the Dairy Star and Country Acres South publications. As a child, Kyllo grew up reading the Dairy Star on her family’s dairy farm in Southeast Minnesota. She is on the copy-editing team of this paper which covers industry-related news from Midwest dairy farms, and she holds the editor title of Country Acres South that reports about rural life in nine counties out of southeastern Minnesota. She also works with Star Publications’ social media. “Working in an agriculture-based role in communications really fits where I came from,” Kyllo explained.
Kyllo was fortunate to find her ideal job, but the road was effortful. Kyllo discovered her interest in public relations when she served as Princess Kay, a state dairy princess who took on various communications tasks related to dairy farm publicity. Through this position, Kyllo noticed her capability within a public relations role. She ended up studying in Northwestern’s Communications department after a few years of education at other colleges. In her time at Northwestern, Kyllo made the most of every opportunity to develop her professional experience. “A college degree does not guarantee a job, but the things you learn, the connections you make, and the experiences you have will show help,” she advised. Kyllo participated in five internships within 18 months, conducted multiple informational interviews with established communications departments, and explored the field in various industries. Eventually, she contacted the Dairy Star about a post-graduation internship, but they didn’t have any openings. After the disappointment of being turned down by a different company, a position at the Dairy Star opened and they offered it to Kyllo. Her work with Star Publications continued from there.
When asked to give advice to college students who are anxious about their future career, Kyllo had four recommendations.
1. Be a student who your professors know and would recommend.
2. Get involved with multiple internships.
3. Take a job, even if it’s not perfect. You may grow to love a job that seems scary at first.
4. Trust God’s plan in giving you the opportunities that you need.
Your career path shouldn’t be an intimidating concept to approach. Amy Kyllo’s story illustrates the practical steps to secure a fitting job for you. Find ways to put yourself out there and gain experience, and a career will be right around the corner.
