Role: Project Manager
Industry/Sector: Higher Education
Company Name: Cal Poly Humboldt
Year graduated from Cal Poly Humboldt: 2022
Please tell us about yourself.
I have been working in program and project management for most of my career, mainly in non-profits. I have had the good fortune to work almost exclusively with service organizations whose missions are to improve people’s lives and make community change.
What motivated you to enroll in the Leadership Studies program?
Like many, I lost my job due to COVID when the non-profit I worked for laid off 30% of their workforce. I was surprised at how deeply the loss of my job impacted my sense of self. Finding a new job during the height of COVID was challenging, and the job openings that I found did not align with my values and support my professional growth path.
I should mention that I have always regretted not going back to school to finish my degree – it was something I wanted to do, but I didn’t feel like I could justify the time away from family or the expense. I started researching training I could take to make myself the ‘best candidate’ when employers start hiring again, and this is how I discovered the Leadership Studies Program. We "found each other" right when I was thinking about the next chapter in my life. In retrospect, I believe that the universe gave me the tools to turn my lemons into some lemonade!
How has the Leadership Program positively impacted your personal and/or professional life?
The Leadership Program has changed my life significantly – internally and externally.
The program has given me confidence in my abilities and leadership. It is truly a learning family with teachers who bring a unique viewpoint and approach to understanding concepts. My learning peers inspire me and challenge me to look at discussion topics from various perspectives.
In 2022 I joined Cal Poly Humboldt as a Project Manager, helping teams across campus improve work processes and grow during the Cal Poly Humboldt transition.
What were/are the most memorable growth moments for you in the program?
Hands down, I would say that the collaborative projects I’ve done with other students have been the highlight of my time in the program. I always appreciate hearing about how others approach a challenge, and I have learned from each experience.
What are your goals after completing the Leadership Studies degree program?
I met my goal a little earlier than expected – my next goal is to continue learning in my new role and look at ways I can give back to the school that has had such a positive impact on my life.
What else would you like to share about your experience as a student in the Leadership Studies degree program?
For someone who is considering the program, I would encourage them to lean in and try it. Asynchronous learning was a challenge for me at first because I prefer personal interaction. After a couple of classes, I made a conscious choice to work on building relationships with my fellow students, chatting outside of class about assignments and projects. It made the experience much more meaningful for me. And I have to mention that the advising team for the Leadership Program is fantastic – they get to know you as a person and are incredibly responsive and helpful.
