Going Public with a Public Relations Career

Name: Marc Cowlin
Title: Media Relations Specialist
Company: Birkenstock
Location: Novato, CA
Age: 30
College Attended: Sonoma State University (Rohnert Park, CA), Public Relations Major

Academic Steps

"In my first year of high school, I was convinced that all I wanted to do was make money, and thought being a stockbroker was the key to that life," explains Marc Cowlin. "I spent time learning about the market, and came to the conclusion it wasn't for me."

Instead, Cowlin realized his best subject was English. "I could write a paper, but I struggled every night on my math homework." While at Santa Rosa Junior College (Santa Rosa, CA), he caught a glimpse of where he belonged. "I took a media studies class and fell in love. I knew my major had to be communications studies. But it was in a public relations class at Sonoma State University where I really knew for sure."

Finding the Right Fit
Cowlin's two internships, one for a congressional race, the other for Sonoma State's public affairs office, helped him achieve job success. "The public affairs office pushed me in the direction of media relations. I had the opportunity to work with local press, on weekly staff bulletins, and write press releases."

With his strong school foundation, Cowlin took a job at Birkenstock and moved up the ranks quickly, from public relations assistant to media relations specialist.

Surprising Perks
"I love my job. I work with an amazing group of people -- magazine editors, wardrobe stylists, costume designers, and celebrities -- whom I wouldn't trade for anything. Their careers are so interesting to me that it makes our business relationships strong."

Follow in His Footsteps
He's a busy guy, but Cowlin says career success is within reach. "Everyone has a talent," Cowlin encourages, "whether it's math, English, science, physical education, wood shop, or political science. As long as you can embrace one of them, and do your best in the rest, you will find what you are meant to do."

Cowlin's Public Relations To-Do List

• Supply shoes for magazine, TV show, motion picture, and celebrity fashion shoots. Promote the Birkenstock brand.


• Prepare internal company communications.


• Manage press clips.


• Facilitate press kit mailings and internal reporting.

Sound Off! Post Your Comments