| Step | Action | Tools / Tips | |------|--------|--------------| | | Identify journalists, bloggers, alumni magazines, and niche influencers who cover graduation stories, lifestyle startups, or the specific niche of your brand. | Use Cision, Muck Rack, or manual Google searches. | | 4.2 Personalize Pitch | Reference a recent article they wrote, explain why your story fits their audience. | Keep email subject lines ≤ 50 characters. | | 4.3 Send Press Release | Attach the media kit, include a short intro, and a clear deadline (e.g., “Would love to coordinate a feature before May 15.”). | Use Mail Merge (GMass, Mailshake). | | 4.4 Follow‑Up | 3‑5 business days after initial email, send a polite follow‑up. | One sentence reminder, restate value. | | 4.5 Leverage Alumni Networks | Alumni newsletters, LinkedIn alumni groups, university press offices. | Offer exclusive interview or photo assets. | | 4.6 Track Coverage | Log each outlet, date, and link. | Google Alerts + a simple spreadsheet. |

Note: Replace bracketed placeholders (e.g., [Field of Study], [Title of Thesis]) with specific details to personalize the press release.