HR professional appreciates personalized attention she received through online program

How did you decide to enroll at Anderson University?

I’ve dedicated years of my career to human resources, but I eventually reached a plateau that hindered my progress into a director’s role. This challenge inspired me to return to school, and Anderson University stood out to me. Its Christian foundation resonated deeply, having spent my entire life in Christian education.

Now, I’m on the journey toward my master's degree. My former advisor has always pushed me to strive for more. With her unwavering support, she frequently texts to encourage me on my path back to education. I'm back at AU to continue to receive my master’s, and I can feel the excitement of what's to come!

What got you interested in organizational leadership?

I commenced my professional journey in 1999 by working part-time with a staffing agency while seven months pregnant, on-site at Electrolux, where my father has been employed for 36 years. This experience served as an entry point into the staffing sector, which subsequently led me to the field of human resources, as staffing functions within HR.

While many individuals possess degrees in human resources or business, it is my observation that not all who occupy leadership positions possess the requisite skills to lead effectively. Therefore, it was crucial for me to acquire these essential leadership competencies in conjunction with the HR experience and knowledge I have developed over the years.

Did you go straight from undergrad to your graduate school?

I did not proceed directly to graduate school. Although I initially planned to enroll, unforeseen family circumstances arose that prevented me from doing so. I intend to return to pursue my master’s degree; however, I am not currently enrolled but plan to return in 2024. I earned my bachelor's degree, graduating in December 2021.

While these events have posed significant challenges, I do not view them as having derailed my academic plans; instead, they have resulted in a temporary delay in my educational pursuits.

You had mentioned that you had recently made a change of career.

Despite my extensive experience in human resources, many employers prioritize formal educational qualifications over practical experience. Although some organizations may seek experience rather than degrees, such cases are relatively uncommon.

A few months prior to my graduation, I obtained a position that represented a significant advancement from my previous roles, resulting in an immediate salary increase of $30,000 per year due to my degree, in addition to my years of experience. Currently, I have transitioned from the corporate sector. A company located near me has appointed me as their Director of Talent Acquisition; however, the company does not have a formal human resources department.

The organization engaged me to develop my own department, enabling me to build a portfolio that I could retain should I choose to pursue independent ventures. Notably, this company has shown interest in my collaboration for approximately five years, and I ultimately recognized that I would not ascertain the outcomes unless I took the initiative to proceed.

Tell me a little bit about your experience with Anderson University and how you feel you’ve been helped professionally at this point.

The classes offered a remarkable educational experience. My encouragement to prospective students entering the adult program is to “not be afraid.” The fact that the program is conducted entirely online does not compromise the quality of support available; it is comparable to that provided in a traditional on-site setting. The faculty demonstrated exceptional commitment to student support, consistently maintaining open lines of communication. They actively reached out and provided their contact information, including personal cell phone numbers, ensuring that all necessary resources were accessible to help students remain on track.April Wardlaw, COB, 2021

Let’s talk about juggling family and career and school.

My husband passed away in 2013. I began my studies at Anderson University in 2010. Consequently, my academic journey involved several interruptions; I would take a couple of years off before returning to my studies. During this time, I was raising three children, working full-time, and volunteering as a firefighter, Habitat for Humanity, and with the Red Cross. Balancing these responsibilities proved challenging but essential to my personal and professional growth.

How did you become involved in firefighting, Habitat for Humanity, and the Red Cross?

Human resources and staffing are inherently aligned; those who work in staffing often have strong feelings about the field—either a deep appreciation or a strong aversion. The same can be said for human resources. I have always harbored a passion for helping others, and my experience as a volunteer firefighter allowed me to assist people in a different capacity.

During the day, I support individuals within the office environment, and at night, I engage in life-saving efforts. This dual commitment provides a continuous source of adrenaline that I thoroughly enjoy. However, I took a step back from firefighting to focus on my graduation and other responsibilities, recognizing that sometimes life presents hurdles. The key is to remain committed to getting back on track, regardless of the challenges faced.

What's been the best part of your AU education?

Earning my degree has significantly expanded my professional opportunities. For instance, my volunteer experience with the Red Cross has been recognized alongside my human resources skills, allowing organizations to effectively assess my qualifications and determine suitable places for me. Graduating a year and a half ago has already yielded considerable benefits.

As I initiated this new department, it is common for individuals to review profiles on LinkedIn or Facebook upon receiving my business card. I now possess what feels like a "stamp of approval" on the skills I have acquired throughout my career, whether independently or through other employers. This formal acknowledgment of my capabilities enhances my credibility and reinforces the notion that I am indeed qualified. Walking across the graduation stage was a profoundly gratifying experience, solidifying this validation.

Any shout-outs to professors or others at AU?

First and foremost, I wish to express my gratitude and praise to God for guiding me throughout this journey in my career. His support has been instrumental in helping me remain focused and dedicated to achieving this significant milestone in my life.

Next, I’d like to thank Dr. Gilbert Eyabi for playing a pivotal role in my academic journey. I must admit that mathematics has never been my favorite subject, but he consistently encouraged me by saying that math is beautiful. On graduation day, I shared with him, "You know, there is only one thing you were wrong about." When he inquired what that was, I replied, "Math is not beautiful; math is of the devil." We both erupted in laughter, and I have a memorable photo capturing that joyful moment that I will cherish forever.

In addition, I would like to express my gratitude to my parents  (left) for their invaluable support throughout my academic journey. They helped with my children during times when I needed to study or attend to matters on campus. Their support has been crucial, not only in a financial capacity but also emotionally, serving as an overall foundation that helped me remain focused on my goals. Most importantly, I would like to acknowledge my children (right), who played a vital role in encouraging me to persevere with my online exams and homework when they were very young, at ages 10 and 7, as I began this journey in 2010. Their willingness to assist with their younger sibling, born in 2009, provided me with the necessary support to continue my education. There were times when they would literally need to nudge me awake after I had dozed off during my studies. Their reminders were essential in helping me maintain focus and engagement in my academic pursuits.

Lastly and certainly not the least, I would like to acknowledge the additional support I have received, I would like to extend a special thank you to my friends who helped during the days I needed it most. Whether it was treating me to lunch, offering soup and gifts on my migraine days, or providing a bit of financial aid to help me through the semester, their kindness made a significant difference. Thank you.

At the end of the day, what gives you a real feeling of accomplishment?

In the field of human resources, I rely on checklists daily, as these tools are essential to our work. However, I have learned an important lesson throughout my career: it is perfectly acceptable if not everything on the checklist is completed by the end of the day. My objective is to accomplish this list, with a key focus on prioritization. There will always be another day to finish pending items. I find a great sense of accomplishment even when I manage to complete just one or two tasks, as it signifies progress. As I progress in my career, I have come to recognize that there are far more important aspects to life than relentlessly pushing oneself to extremes, as doing so can render one ineffective for both personal and professional commitments.

What advice would you give to someone who is working, they've got a family, they're raising their kids. Why go to college?

I understand that taking the next step may feel intimidating, but you will not know what is possible until you act. The question is: do you want to reflect on your progress in a few months, or do you prefer to continue contemplating "if I go back" or "if I take that next step?" The truth is that you will not gain clarity until you try. I made the decision to take the plunge, and it has proven to be a rewarding experience.