For the first IOHRM Student Spotlight for the Class of 2026, we are featuring Amy Hu! Amy is a second-year IOHRM and MBA dual-degree candidate whose path has been shaped by a curiosity about how people and organizations function. Amy completed her bachelor’s degree in psychology at North Carolina State University, where she developed an interest in understanding human behavior in different contexts.
Amy’s Journey to IOHRM
Amy’s interest in the field began during high school when she took an AP Psychology class. The way that psychologists approach problems resonated deeply, leading her to pursue psychology as her undergraduate major. While exploring the field, Amy knew she wanted to apply psychological concepts in a business context. Her natural inclination to understand human behavior in the workplace is what led Amy to the intersection of psychology and business.
When choosing a graduate program, Amy was drawn to the IOHRM program’s unique interdisciplinary approach that provides a holistic view of human resources and leadership. She was particularly interested in the opportunity to make long-lasting connections with both her cohort and faculty.
Exploring Amy’s Interests as a Student
Amy’s time in the program has been a journey of discovering new interests. She found that the most rewarding part of the coursework is the group projects, which provide valuable experience working with diverse teams and preparing for the professional world. As a second-year student, she has discovered a new interest: compensation. Her interest was sparked during her internship, where she was exposed to compensation, making related coursework more engaging.
Beyond the classroom, Amy has been proactive in seeking out new experiences. Her internship allowed her to apply the knowledge she gained in her first year in a real-world setting. Amy also serves as Vice President of Finance for SHRM-ASC, an experience she initially felt unsure of but has grown to enjoy, finding a rewarding sense of organization in the role.
Amy’s Favorite Part of the IOHRM Program
For Amy, one of the best parts of the program has been the opportunity to create meaningful connections with her cohort, faculty, and HR professionals. She appreciates that the program fostered a tight-knit cohort, noting that their activities outside the classroom have developed their personal and professional relationships. The program also offered the opportunity to develop time management and professional communication skills. She explained that these opportunities, along with guidance from professors, have led to both professional and personal growth from the beginning of the program to now.
Amy’s Advice for Prospective Students
Amy’s main piece of advice for future students is to be proactive; she encourages students to reach out to professors and students before entering the program, allowing them to gain a clear understanding of what the program offers. She also recommends trying new things, sharing that serving as Vice President of Finance for SHRM-ASC has been a completely new but valuable experience for her.
Looking Ahead
As she looks to the future, Amy is eager to expand her horizons and explore a variety of industries early in her career to help her discover the right long-term fit. She is excited by opportunities that will allow her to grow into leadership roles while continuing to develop her expertise in HR. She is researching compensation specialist roles, as well as leadership development programs, as they are a good transition for recent graduates to move into leadership positions. She credits the IOHRM program with preparing her for the next step in her career by providing valuable networking opportunities, professional experiences, and the confidence to navigate her career search. Amy’s journey is an example of how embracing curiosity and new opportunities can lead to tremendous personal and professional growth. We are excited to see what's next for her as she begins this new chapter in her career.
