Meet Kelly Mikrut '21, a graduate student at La Roche University. Ms. Mikrut will earn a Master of Science in Human Resources Management with a concentration in strategic management and leadership.
Why did you choose La Roche?
After researching HR programs in the Pittsburgh area, La Roche’s program was most appealing. I liked the flexibility of the classes because of my full-time work schedule. The classes offered also work well with what I do in my current job, and they are what I need to grow in my company. The program also did not require a GRE for admission.
Tell us about your current job and duties.
I work as an HR representative
for Elliott in Jeannette, Pennsylvania. My
main job duties include labor relations with our bargaining hourly employees.
This includes managing job bids and awards, shift realignments and handling any
grievances or complaints.
I also handle onboarding and new
hire orientation, and I assist with our internship program. I am responsible
for our service and recognition awards as well as coordinating our scholarship
program.
Since the pandemic I have continued
to work onsite. I collaborate with our occupational nurse to complete contact
tracing for our Jeannette shop.
How does the curriculum prepare you for professional challenges?
The curriculum has helped me to
become more confident in my work. No one can prepare you for a pandemic, but
the curriculum gave me the confidence to help create a contact tracing policy
and act as the point person.
The program also helped me to look at things
differently. I can discuss real work situations with those in my class and hear
different opinions. This brings a different view to my company.
What do you enjoy most about the program?
First, the flexibility – not only
with scheduling classes, but the classes offered. The number of available elective
classes gives you the opportunity to customize the program to your interests.
My second favorite aspect is the
capstone class of the program. The class allowed me to be creative and use the
skills I learned, and it helped me understand different aspects of my company.
What was your experience with the HRM faculty?
The faculty at La Roche have been
great! No matter the class, the professor is available if I have questions.
What advice do you have for students who are entering the program?
Work while you are enrolled in the
program. I can relate my classes to my current work experiences.
Also don't be scared to ask
questions, not only to professors, but classmates as well. Your classmates are
going to be your biggest asset during your time in the program.