Class of 2025
Two years ago, I walked into Grainger Hall for the first time as a fresh MBA student at the Wisconsin School of Business – excited, nervous, and no idea where this journey would take me. Now, I’m graduating next week (crazy, right?) and I am walking out with clarity, confidence, and an even deeper sense of purpose as I prepare to join U.S. Bank’s Human Resources Leadership Development Program (HRLDP) in Minneapolis.
My time in Madison has been transformational. The MBA program here is more than a series of classes – it’s an immersive experience where community, leadership, and learning all intersect. Being involved in so many things throughout my time like the Graduate Business Association (GBA), Graduate Women in Business (GWiB), multiple case competitions, and the ambassador’s program have all shown me how to be well-rounded, manage time effectively, and develop deep and lasting relationships.
When I reflect on the heart of this experience, I think about community. I have met amazing friends through this program and have developed long-lasting relationships that will continue long past the duration of this program. Each and every single one of my peers has taught me something in some capacity, from their life experiences to their shining personalities. I have grown as a human and as a professional due to their influence (and if you’re reading this, thank you, truly. You know who you all are).
These lessons extend into my coursework and field of study – Human Resources. Where the employee experience is increasingly central to organizational strategy. At its best, HR is a connector – it brings people together, supports development, and builds inclusive cultures that fuel innovation and retention. The same values I saw thrive within our MBA community are the ones I’m excited to champion in my future role at U.S. Bank.
As a student in the Strategic Human Resource Management (SHR) specialization, I had the opportunity to engage with HR strategy not only in class but also through experiential learning opportunities that took me beyond the walls of Grainger. As a SHR student, each year we get the chance to go on a trek. Treks offered a real-life view into HR in action. Traveling with classmates to visit companies with progressive HR practices helped me connect classroom learning with corporate culture. Whether it was exploring how companies are rethinking benefits or compensation or reimagining employee engagement post-pandemic, the Treks showed that the idea that HR is no longer just a support function—it’s a strategic place for growth and development.
One of the most meaningful moments in my MBA journey came during the Awards of Excellence ceremony, where I was honored with the Experiential Learning Award. This recognition wasn’t just a celebration of what I had done—it was a reflection of everything I had learned and contributed throughout my time in the program. From case competitions and SHR Treks to my leadership in GBA and involvement in cross-functional projects, I sought out experiences that would challenge me, stretch my perspective, and help me grow both as a business thinker and a future HR leader. The award shows that learning isn’t always in the classroom. It happens in new teams, making mistakes, and in having conversations that push your thinking in new directions. It was also a reminder that learning never happens alone. I’ve been fortunate to be surrounded by peers and faculty who supported me, challenged me, and encouraged me to take risks.
As I prepare to move to Minneapolis and begin the next chapter of my career with U.S. Bank, I carry with me both excitement and a deep sense of purpose. I’ll be joining the Human Resources Leadership Development Program (HRLDP), a rotational program designed to build future HR leaders using ten-month stints in different areas of HR to get a real-world preview of work and to become a more well-rounded HR professional. This isn’t just a continuation of my education – it’s an opportunity to apply my coursework on a greater scale than ever before. This past summer I had the amazing opportunity to work at U.S. Bank in their Global Learning and Development team. This experience truly affirmed everything I value in an organization: a people-first culture, a commitment to ethical leadership, and a clear understanding of the strategic role HR plays in business success. I had the opportunity to contribute to initiatives that enhanced the employee experience, supported talent development, and strengthened leadership capabilities. After having such an incredible experience, it was clear that U.S. Bank was where I wanted to begin my post-MBA career. Relocating to Minneapolis also brings a new kind of growth. I’m excited to live in a new city and grow a new community. It’s a place where I’ll be able to continue learning – not just professionally, but personally.
My time in Wisconsin has given me so much joy and I am truly grateful for everything these past two years has given me. As I close this chapter and begin another, I’m excited to keep growing in that direction. I’m leaving Madison with more than a degree – I’m leaving with a toolkit, a support system, and a different outlook on life. To my classmates, professors, mentors, and friends – thank you for being part of this journey. On, Wisconsin!