Differentiation?

Since joining the fabulous school of journalism at the University of Oregon I have heard, like a broken record, the advice that I should learn my practice well and differentiate myself from my peers.

Today, while pondering a while, I asked myself 'well aren't I different from others, naturally?' I am my own person, I have my own thoughts and processes, I enjoy certain things, I laugh at things that others do not, and I have a different take on things than most people.

In class we are all taught the same processes and tactics to handle certain situations, so, in that sense, I am very much the same aren't I? How can I learn something differently than it is taught?

Are we to sell our personalities? If so, are we to change our personalities if we recognize how someone else's personality is favored? I haven't quite figured it out but if it is about selling ourselves, then here is some insight about what makes me different.

I am a quilt. "A quilt is distinguishable from types of blankets because it is pieced together with several pieces of cloth." I am a person who is pieced together by all my knowledge and experiences. I have chosen in life to experience many different things. From traveling to trying out different professions I have been blessed to acquire a wide variety of skills. I have worked on a ranch and at a well-known newspaper. I am not afraid to work hard and get dirty but I know how to dress professionally. I have learned how to work in retail and do bookkeeping. I have learned how to work with clients and talk to people in a professional manner. I know how to get all the facts and be thorough. I can be a leader and a follower. I have traveled the world and learned about many cultures and how it is important to be sensitive to others beliefs and know where they are coming from. It is important to represent yourself well but let your freak flag fly, after all that’s what makes humans unique.

I am confident in my skills as public relations professional not because I think I am amazing but because of my ability to learn, adapt and understand situations. In my opinion, being the best means having a broad background but mostly being able to figure out a situation and offer the best advice and services. No one is an expert at anything, life constantly evolves and we must go along for the ride.