Student Story: Going After the Career of My Dreams

For as long as I can remember, human resources management was my dream career. I felt that my passion for helping others would make me a good advocate for employees in the workplace. I enrolled at Herzing University in the summer of 2015 and began working towards my bachelor’s degree in business management with a human resources concentration.

My first term was a little bumpy, but it wasn’t long before I caught on and started to excel in my classes. Going back to school as a single mother of three working full-time was not an easy task, but I made it work.

It’s hard to believe that I’m just about finished with my bachelor’s degree, and I couldn’t be more excited about what the future holds.

Here are my tips for going after the career of your dreams:

1. Make your education a priority 

When I first started at Herzing, I thought I was organized. I thought I had a handle on time management, but it’s easier said than done when you are balancing work, kids and school. My first term was a reality check. I realized that skimming through directions is not the same as paying attention to detail. It took a while for me to adjust my habits, but getting a below average grade on an assignment when you were expecting an A really puts things into perspective.

My advice for others, especially if you’ve been out of school for a while, is to first and foremost plan ahead. Try to get through the required lessons and readings before the due date because life will happen. Kids will get sick; you will get worn down. By planning to start each week as early as possible, you will be better prepared for when the unexpected happens, and you can still make your education a priority.

2. Ask for help when you need it

Expect things to get a little hectic. When you feel overwhelmed or discouraged, lean on those who support you the most, who understand and respect what you are doing. They are the ones who will help reduce your stress instead of adding stress. You will also find support in unexpected places. Know that people are rooting for you to stay strong, and don't give up.

3. Keep an open mind

I always knew I wanted to work in human resources, but I wasn’t sure which area of human resources would align best with my skills, knowledge and passions. When I learned about industrial psychology in one of my cultural diversity classes, it was like a light bulb going off in my head. I knew instantly that industrial psychology was what I wanted to do. That course is the reason I am now pursuing my Master’s in Industrial-Organizational Psychology. Had I not kept an open mind, I would never have discovered the true career of my dreams.

It’s difficult for me to know that I’m coming up on my final chapter with Herzing, but I’m looking forward to the future. Enrolling at Herzing is one of the best decisions I’ve made. Flexible course schedules made it possible for me to earn my degree on time and my professors were always willing to help whenever I needed it. I’ll never forget the kindness I received from all of the students and staff here.

I’m now on a path toward a career that I am incredibly passionate about, and I have renewed courage to keep moving forward. I’m excited to see what the next chapter holds!