Otterbein’s class of 2019 public relations graduates has earned the nickname the “half-million dollar class.” That’s because the combined entry-level salary of this year’s class of public relations (PR) grads is up to a half-million dollars and counting.

From PR and advertising agencies, to health care and non-profit organizations, to corporate, fashion and sports operations, Otterbein’s PR grads are earning outstanding communication-related jobs, with excellent salaries and benefits.

“I had a job offer before I graduated and it felt so good,” said Lauren Heberling ’19, who combined her PR and health comm majors to land a job with the Ohio Academy of Family Physicians. “I’m using my writing, designing, event- and strategic-planning skills I learned in my comm classes and at my numerous internships.”

This year’s grads are now employed at Nationwide Insurance, Express, Disney, Geben Communication, Delaware County Board of Commissioners, the Columbus Partnership, RMD Advertising, to name a few. They used help from their professors, Otterbein’s Center for Career and Professional Development resources, and plain “street smarts” and research skills to land jobs.

“Through my involvement in Otterbein’s PRSSA chapter I learned about Geben during my first year and immediately knew this was where I wanted to work,” said PR major Alex Schaffer ’19. “I would have never imagined that I would be able to land my dream position right out of college. I am so thankful for the support of the communication professors, giving me the confidence to earn a job in the fast-paced world of agency.”

And that’s the tea.