This week, we are excited to spotlight another one of our amazing second-year cohort in the Industrial-Organizational Psychology & Human Resource Management (IOHRM) program, Erin Lally, who brings a unique blend of analytical thinking and passion for understanding people. Originally from Clovis, California, Erin is also pursuing a dual degree in the Master of Science in Applied Data Analytics (MSADA). She earned her undergraduate degree in Economics with an emphasis in Public Policy, along with a minor in I-O Psychology, from San Diego State University in December 2020.
Journey to IOHRM
As an undergraduate, Erin wasn’t entirely sure what career path she wanted to pursue. A friend in her sorority who was studying I-O Psychology first introduced her to the field, sparking her curiosity. With a strong interest in behavioral economics and a natural inclination toward understanding people, she began to see how I-O Psychology could align with her interests. After graduating from San Diego State University, she spent around three years working in a variety of HR roles. Her most recent role was an HR Analyst role. While these experiences were valuable, they ultimately showed Erin that she wanted more from her career and education. She knew she wanted to return to school, not only to advance her skills but also to explore what areas of HR truly interested her.
When researching graduate programs, she noticed that many I-O programs were located on the East Coast. Wanting to experience a new part of the country, she applied to the IOHRM program without previously knowing much about the university. After being accepted, she traveled to campus, met Dr. Huelsman and the current students, and quickly realized it was the right fit. She came into the program with few expectations, aside from knowing it would be more rigorous than her undergraduate experience. Since starting, the program has exceeded those expectations. She shared that while the workload is demanding and faculty hold students to high standards, it is because they truly believe in their students’ ability to succeed.
Exploring Interests as a Student
Throughout the program, she has especially enjoyed courses like Strategic HR Management and Performance Management. One of her favorite projects was the Strategic HR Management project, which challenged her group to think creatively about workplace engagement. Their team explored gamification and behavioral nudges, ultimately presenting their ideas through a game show-themed format that highlighted both the pros and cons of each strategy and how to implement them effectively.
Beyond the classroom, she has been deeply involved in HR Science. During her first year, she was a member of the Safety team, and this year she stepped into the role of Assistant Director. In this leadership position, she oversees administrative and logistical operations, supports team leads, coordinates conferences, and helps organize fundraising efforts. Through this experience, she has developed her leadership skills, learned not to focus on pleasing everyone, and gained confidence in making decisions and implementing change.
Also, during her first year, she was actively involved on campus as a Graduate Assistant, contributing to initiatives such as newsletters and events like the spring social for the IOHRM program. She also worked at the student reception desk for the psychology department and was a TA for Dr. Wolsiefer’s social psychology class. Additionally, she serves as a Member Experience Advisor for Alpha Gamma Delta, where she helps guide chapter members through challenges and decision-making processes. These roles have allowed her to apply what she has learned in the classroom, particularly around teamwork, leadership, and conflict management in real-world settings.
Through her coursework and internship experience, she has developed a strong interest in Performance Management, particularly because it allows her to combine I-O Psychology with her analytics background. While she has discovered this passion, she remains open to exploring a variety of HR functions.
Favorite Part of the IOHRM Program
When reflecting on her experience, she shared that her favorite part of the program has been her cohort. Moving across the country was a big transition, but she quickly found a close-knit group of peers who have become lifelong friends. She values having people who truly understand the rigor of the program and who support each other both academically and personally. The strong sense of connection within her cohort has been one of the most meaningful aspects of her time in IOHRM.
Advice for Prospective Students
Erin's advice to prospective students is to be open to new opportunities, but also to set boundaries. The program offers a wide range of experiences, and it can be easy to become overwhelmed by trying to do everything. Learning how to balance involvement while maintaining well-being is key. She also wishes she had a better understanding of the full scope of expectations going into the program. Beyond coursework, there are many additional commitments, including extracurricular involvement, conferences, and professional development activities. Recognizing that the experience extends far beyond the classroom can help students better prepare for the program. Erin shared that this additional involvement in the program has given her many opportunities to grow and network.
Current Plans After Graduation
After graduation, she plans to move to Salt Lake City, Utah, to be closer to family. She is particularly interested in returning to work in the public sector, where she appreciates the structure, stability, and unique organizational dynamics. She is especially intrigued by the differences between public and private sector operations and looks forward to continuing to explore those distinctions in her career.
She shared that the IOHRM program has prepared her well for the job search process. With strong support from faculty, access to a wide alumni network, and numerous networking opportunities, she feels confident entering the workforce. She emphasized that success in the job search depends on how much effort students put into utilizing these resources. Through her internship and program experiences, she feels well-equipped to pursue a career that aligns with her interests and goals.
Erin Lally
