Finding Balance: How One Alumnus Advanced Their HR Career While Managing Work, School, and Life

“I saw the certificate program as an opportunity to gain specialized knowledge in HR, strengthen my professional foundation, and prepare for leadership roles where people and processes intersect.”

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Can you share a bit about your schooling and/or career path, and what motivated you to enroll in the Human Resource Management Certificate Program at CSUF University Extension?

At the time I enrolled in the Human Resource Management Certificate Program at CSUF University Extension, I was completing my Master of Public Administration at California State University, Fullerton. I currently continue my academic journey as an MBA student, focusing on business strategy and analytics. My educational path, combined with early hands-on experience in public service and administrative roles, sparked a growing interest in how organizations attract, develop, and retain talent. I saw the certificate program as an opportunity to gain specialized knowledge in HR, strengthen my professional foundation, and prepare for leadership roles where people and processes intersect. It was a strategic step toward aligning my education with my long-term career goals in human resources and organizational development.

How did you balance the certificate program with work, family, or other responsibilities at the time?

Balancing the certificate program alongside my graduate studies, part-time internships, and family responsibilities required discipline and strong time management. I created a structured weekly routine and treated the certificate coursework with the same priority as my academic classes. What helped most was the program’s flexible format and the support I received from instructors who were both knowledgeable and understanding of students’ real-world obligations. While it was a demanding season, it ultimately taught me how to effectively juggle competing priorities, an essential skill in any HR or leadership role.

Reflecting on your experience as part of a cohort comprised of other current or future Human Resource professionals, how meaningful was this experience for you, and how has it influenced your academic and career journey?

Being part of a cohort of aspiring and practicing HR professionals was one of the most enriching aspects of the program. The diverse perspectives, experiences, and insights that each member brought created a collaborative learning environment that went beyond textbooks. It helped me develop a broader understanding of the challenges and innovations happening across different sectors of HR. This experience strengthened my communication and collaboration skills and affirmed my commitment to pursuing a career at the intersection of human capital strategy and organizational development. It also played a role in my decision to pursue further graduate education in business and data science, aligning with my long-term career goals in HR operations and analytics.

Since completing the program, have you experienced any changes or growth in your role or organization?

Yes, completing the program has had a direct and positive impact on my career trajectory. Since earning the certificate, I’ve held HR-related internships with both local and federal government agencies, including the City of Los Angeles and NASA. The foundational knowledge and confidence I gained from the program allowed me to contribute meaningfully to projects involving Workday systems, HR operations, employee engagement, and workflow automation. It also positioned me as a more competitive candidate for future roles, and I continue to apply what I learned in both strategic and operational contexts.

Would you recommend this program to your colleagues? If so, why?

Absolutely. I would highly recommend this program to anyone looking to enter or advance in the field of human resources. It offers a strong foundation in key HR principles, real-world applicability, and access to a network of professionals and instructors who are deeply engaged in the field. Whether you’re starting out, transitioning careers, or looking to add depth to your current role, the program provides practical tools, relevant case studies, and a supportive environment that equips you for success.