As I stand on the brink of a new chapter in my career, I can’t help but reflect on the incredible journey that has brought me to this moment. Graduating from the MBA program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison is bittersweet, as this journey has been a fulfilling experience, filled with challenges, growth, and invaluable connections. I still remember the excitement of meeting my fellow SHR cohort members the first week of the program, taking pictures on the Memorial Union Terrace as we talked about the possibilities for the two years ahead.
Reflecting on all that I’ve learned in the MBA program, I realize that my time at UW-Madison has been nothing short of transformative. From the rigorous coursework to the collaborative projects and peer connections, I feel certain that the MBA program has prepared me for the challenges that lie ahead. I have had the opportunity to learn from esteemed professors, engage with talented classmates, and gain hands-on experience through internships and practical projects with clients across multiple industries.
The knowledge and skills I have acquired during my time at The Wisconsin School of Business have laid a strong foundation for my career in human resources thanks to the support of our fearless leader and Center Director, Tanya, and the SHR Center community. Our SHRM aligned curriculum, center treks to Chicago and Milwaukee, HR mentorship program, SHR Center Symposium, and in-depth course work have prepared me to seamlessly transition into my next role and immediately begin making meaningful contributions as an HR professional.
Now, as I prepare to embark on a new adventure, I am thrilled to announce that I will be joining the Global Human Resources Development Program at Bank of America in Charlotte, North Carolina. Joining Bank of America’s Global HRDP feels like the natural next step in my journey. Bank of America is a global leader in financial services, known for its commitment to innovation, diversity, and community impact.
The opportunity to be part of a rotational program will allow me to gain exposure to various aspects of HR, from talent acquisition to compensation, employee relations, learning and development, and beyond. I am excited to work alongside industry experts, tackle complex people strategy challenges, and contribute to the bank’s mission of helping to make financial lives better.
My first rotation within employee relations will be a chance to make a tangible difference in the lives of employees across the organization. Employee relations plays a vital role in fostering a positive work environment, ensuring fairness and equity, and promoting employee well-being. I am eager to dive into the complexities of this dynamic field, applying the knowledge and skills honed during my time at The Wisconsin School of Business to address real-world challenges and drive meaningful change.
Over spring break, I had the opportunity to visit Bank of America’s headquarters in Charlotte. I had lunch with SHR Center alumna and former Global HRDP participant, Kendra McAdams, who gave me a warm welcome to Charlotte and the bank. I also had the opportunity to meet my incoming cohort mates in person as well as my peer mentor and first rotation manager.
I found Charlotte to be a vibrant and dynamic city, with a perfect blend of cosmopolitan amenities and southern charm. I look forward to immersing myself in the local community, exploring all that the city has to offer, and building on my network along the way. Joining the Global Human Resources Development Program marks the beginning of a thrilling journey, where I will have the opportunity to contribute to one of the world’s leading financial institutions while continuing to grow both personally and professionally.
As I prepare to bid farewell to Madison and embark on this new journey, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences and opportunities that have shaped me into the professional I am today. I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and eager to make a meaningful impact in my role at Bank of America. With a spirit of curiosity, resilience, and optimism, I am ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities of this next chapter in my career.
To all my professors, classmates, mentors, and supporters at UW-Madison, thank you for your guidance, encouragement, and inspiration. And to my future colleagues at Bank of America, I am honored and excited to join your team. Here’s to new beginnings!