Our on-campus students have formed a Student Recruitment Board, and are happy to answer questions about their experience for you.
My name is Amanda Donald-Phillips and I am affectionately called ADP by my peers and colleagues. I’m originally from Chicago, IL; however, I graduated from Dartmouth College with degrees in Sociology and African/African-American Studies. I decided to come back to the Midwest to pursue my MHRIR here at the School. The things I love most about LER are the community and limitless support I’ve received long before officially starting the program. LER is such a safe space where I am comfortable with being uncomfortable and I’ve been provided with the opportunity to grow in ways I could have never imagined. Feel free to reach out at amandam6@illinois.edu.
My name is Binyu Wang and I came to LER from China. I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto, and double majored in human resources management and philosophy. I love outdoor sports! In the winter, I go skiing, ice skating, indoor rock climbing and ice fishing. During summer months, I go fishing, swimming, hiking, camping and kayaking. As an international student myself, I’m well aware of many challenges and difficulties you may encounter. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out at binyuw2@illinois.edu, and I’m always here to help! I look forward to meeting you in person soon!
I’m Brenna Faber and I graduated from UIUC with a bachelor’s in Industrial/Organizational Psychology in December 2022 and immediately started pursuing my MHRIR in spring. Before hearing about the program, I lacked direction about what to do with my degree after graduation. I can now say that applying to LER was the best professional decision I’ve made. The program cultivates a culture of intelligent and motivated individuals who are invested in uplifting and celebrating one another, and I’m incredibly thankful that I get to be a part of the LER community. If you have questions you can reach me at bfaber2@illinois.edu.
My name is Bryce Balonick and I completed my undergraduate studies here at UIUC, where I majored in Communication with minors in Political Science and Psychology. I love the diversity in educational backgrounds everyone has at LER. This allows people to bring different types of knowledge and experiences into the classrooms. I have been provided opportunities through LER that I never would have thought I would attain, and I definitely am in a better position than I would have been had I not joined this program. The teachers, faculty, alumni, and fellow students have blown away my expectations, and I am so grateful for everything LER has given me! You can reach me at bryceb2@illinois.edu.
My name is Caitie and I graduated from Illinois State University in May 2022 with a bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management. I chose LER because I wanted to be a part of a program that is not only highly recognized and would challenge me in new ways, but also has a sense of camaraderie among the cohorts. Since joining LER I have found countless opportunities to grow and develop both professionally and personally. I’m so grateful to be a part of a program that provides the resources and support that will allow us to excel in our careers. I’m happy to answer questions at ccurtin4@illinois.edu.
My name is Celestina Aladesuru and I am Nigerian born, but Chicago raised. I graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in December 2019 with my bachelor’s degree in Psychology. Prior to joining LER I worked as a legal assistant for over two years. I made the decision to transition into HR because during my role as a legal assistant I was faced with many clients I knew could use the support of good human resources. I chose LER because I wanted to return to the Illinois family. I knew by joining LER I would be receiving the best preparation for my career and would be making meaningful connections. I know I made the right decision! LER has helped me find myself and achieve goals I never considered attainable. Questions? Ask me at calade2@illinois.edu.
My name is Cindy and I am an international student. I came to LER and Illinois from China. I graduated from Yancheng Teachers University in 2014 with a degree in International Economics and Trade. I came to LER to develop my multi-cultural perspectives and academic knowledge to provide a better professional services for organizations. LER is a warm family and one of the best choices I ever made. You will get full resources and support here, so I hope you’ll come join us! I’d be happy to answer your questions at yiqianl3@illinois.edu.
I’m Gloria Zhou and I came to LER from China and graduated from Wuhan Textile University with a degree in accounting. After graduation, I spent one year volunteering in Tibet. I enjoy hanging out with friends talking with them and travelling all over the world. I’d love to speak with you to answer questions about being an international student on the Illinois campus! zzhou84@illinois.edu
My name is Jolene Morgan and I graduated from UIUC with a bachelor’s in Communication in May 2022 and began pursuing a MHRIR after graduation. Joining LER is one the best decisions that I have made up to this point in my life. I am certain that this program is setting me up for a successful, lifelong career with the expert faculty, innovative courses, recruiting events, involved alumni network, and an unmatched sense of community. I’ll forever be grateful for the countless opportunities and the meaningful relationships that LER has afforded me. Please reach out! jolenem2@illinois.edu
I’m Jonathan Moon, and graduated from Olivet Nazarene University with a business degree in 2022. I worked in sales for eight years prior to completing my bachelor’s degree. I found my way to LER after searching for a more meaningful career and I believe joining the program was the best decision I’ve ever made! Every student, staff, and faculty member has welcomed and encouraged me, and made LER feel like home. I know here I have the support, the tools and the network I need to make a positive impact in HR. Feel free to reach out at jbmoon2@illinois.edu.
My name is Madi and I graduated from Ohio State University in May 2022 with a Major in Business and specialization in Human Resources. I chose to pursue my Masters at LER because I was looking for a program that would challenge me and provide new opportunities while also creating a strong alumni network. I took a jump moving to a new campus, but I am so happy to now call this place home and be a part of the LER family! I’d love to speak with you about being an out of state student at LER and what a great decision it was to make this move. mcguest2@illinois.edu
I’m Olivia and I’m from Tuscola, Illinois about 30 minutes south of campus. I graduated from Illinois with a bachelor’s degree in Community Health and minor in Informatics. I chose LER not only to receive a top tier education from accomplished faculty, but also to continue my education at a prestigious university. Since starting the program I have developed professionally while gaining knowledge to make me valuable to the field. I am beyond grateful for the opportunities this program has provided me and the continuous support from my fellow students, the faculty, and staff. Let me know if I can answer questions for you! oliviac2@illinois.edu