Good afternoon, everyone!
I am an HR major with a concentration in psychology, and my course load reflects that focus. Currently, I am enrolled in Cross-Cultural Psychology, Organizational Behavior, Exploring the City, and Italian. Each of these classes is contributing to my development in both HR and psychology by offering a diverse set of perspectives and skills.
In particular, my experience in the Italian classroom has been quite different from what I am used to in the United States. In Italy, there seems to be less structure in the classroom environment, and much of the learning is more on-the-fly, with projects and assignments that evolve more spontaneously. For example, my professors tend to use fewer structured slides and focus more on open discussions and real-time exploration of topics. It’s a learning experience that encourages adaptability and flexibility, which are crucial skills, especially in the HR field. While it may initially feel different from the more regimented, slide-driven style in the U.S., it’s an approach that fosters creativity and critical thinking in its own way. It’s not bad at all—just different—and it’s teaching me to approach learning with more openness and fluidity.
Key skills and strengths needed to be successful in this industry—particularly in HR—include strong communication, emotional intelligence, and the ability to understand and manage diverse teams. Courses like Cross-Cultural Psychology and Organizational Behavior are helping me develop these skills by providing insights into how people from different cultural and organizational backgrounds interact. Understanding these dynamics is critical in the HR field, where managing interpersonal relationships and facilitating positive team dynamics are key responsibilities.
To succeed in this program, I plan to leverage my Clifton Strengths in relationship building and influencing. My strength in relationship building helps me form meaningful connections, both with my classmates and professors, and in future HR roles, this will be essential for building trust with employees and teams. Additionally, my influencing strength enables me to guide and motivate others, a key aspect of leadership in HR. Whether it’s encouraging collaboration in group projects or leading discussions, these strengths help me take an active role in my learning and contribute effectively in both academic and professional settings.
As I continue to engage with the academic and professional culture, I’ve noticed a strong emphasis on collaboration, critical thinking, and adaptability. The ability to work well with others and think critically aligns with the essential skills required in the HR industry. Additionally, the flexibility I’ve learned from my experience in the Italian classroom is reinforcing my ability to adapt to different work environments—something that will be valuable as I transition into a professional HR role.
Overall, the combination of my coursework, strengths, and international experience is preparing me well for the HR industry. The different teaching styles I am experiencing abroad, particularly the less structured, more spontaneous approach in Italy, are providing valuable lessons in adaptability and open-mindedness. As I continue my studies, I am excited to further develop these skills and apply them in both academic and professional environments.