Friday, January 31, 2025
  1. Katrina Ibarra
    Katrina Ibarra
    Where is your hometown?
    My hometown is Midlothian, Texas.
  2. Why did you decide to pursue a degree in HR?
    I decided to pursue a degree in Human Resources because I have always been passionate about helping people and fostering positive work environments. Throughout my academic journey, I naturally gravitated toward understanding how organizations and individuals can work together to thrive. HR gives me the opportunity to impact people’s careers, create inclusive environments, and solve workplace challenges. Additionally, my experience leading in organizations like SHPE and UNT SHRM, where I managed teams, coordinated events, and facilitated discussions, further solidified my desire to work in HR. I am driven to contribute to organizations by helping them manage talent, create strong company cultures, and ensure that employees are supported and empowered to do their best work.
  3. How has the HR Program at UNT helped you to reach your personal, academic, and/or professional goals?
    The HR program at UNT has played a pivotal role in shaping my academic and professional journey, particularly through the support of my professors and advisors. They have not only provided me with essential tools and knowledge needed to navigate the workforce, but also valuable lessons that extend into my personal life. The guidance I’ve received has been instrumental in developing my confidence and problem-solving abilities. The most significant impact has been the relationships I’ve built with my professors and advisors, who have become trusted mentors. Their support has been unwavering, and they’ve always been there for me when I needed guidance, especially in times when I couldn’t turn to my family. The connections and experiences I’ve gained from them will remain with me throughout my career.
  4. What was the most important thing you learned in the HR program?
    The most important thing I've learned in the HR program at the University of North Texas is the critical importance of communication and adaptability in human resources. Through both coursework and hands-on experiences with UNT SHRM and SHPE, I've seen firsthand how effective communication fosters strong relationships and trust within organizations, whether it's between managers and employees or within teams. Additionally, adaptability is key in HR, as organizations face constantly changing dynamics, from evolving policies to shifting workplace cultures. The ability to be flexible and responsive in those situations, while keeping the needs of employees and the organization in mind, is essential. These lessons have given me a strong foundation in HR practices and prepared me to navigate challenges in the workplace effectively.
  5. What is your greatest academic or professional accomplishment and why?
    My greatest academic accomplishment so far has been representing the University of North Texas as team captain at the 2024 HR Case Competition at Purdue University. This experience stands out because it not only challenged me to apply my knowledge in human resources to real-world business problems, but it also tested my leadership, teamwork, and strategic thinking skills. Leading a team of three, I guided the team through the process of analyzing HR issues, developing solutions, and presenting our findings to a panel of judges. The competition provided a valuable opportunity to network with professionals and peers, which further deepened my understanding of HR practices and strengthened my confidence in public speaking and presenting. It was one of my favorite moments because it was a culmination of my academic journey, leadership development, and passion for HR, all of which reinforced my commitment to pursuing a career in the field.
  6. What are your career aspirations?
    My career aspirations are centered around making a meaningful impact in the field of human resources, with a focus on diversity, equity, inclusion, and employee well-being. I aim to work in a dynamic and forward-thinking organization where I can contribute to developing HR strategies that foster an inclusive and positive work culture. I am particularly passionate about talent acquisition, employee relations, and workplace health and safety, and many aspects and roles that I can get my hands on. I want to learn.
    In the long term, I hope to take on leadership roles within HR, guiding organizations toward more effective and people-centered practices. I am also committed to continuing my professional development by gaining industry certifications and eventually pursuing a graduate degree to deepen my expertise. Ultimately, I aspire to work for an organization that values its people as its most important asset, and I hope to be a driving force in creating environments where employees feel valued, supported, and motivated to succeed.
  7. Briefly summarize your involvement in UNT SHRM, and explain how your involvement helped you prepare for the industry.
    At UNT SHRM, I’ve had the opportunity to attend networking events such as The People Center HR Executive Networking event and the UNT HR Alumni Dinner. These events allowed me to connect with HR executives, hear their career stories, and receive valuable advice. Through these interactions, I built strong mentor relationships and gained insights into the HR industry, which have been instrumental in guiding my career aspirations. My UNT SHRM involvement has not only expanded my network but also deepened my understanding of the HR field.
  8. What advice do you have for future HR students who want to make the most out of their experience at UNT?
    For future HR students at UNT, my advice would be to actively engage in both academic and extracurricular activities. First, make the most of your coursework by building strong relationships with your professors and peers, as they can be invaluable resources for learning and career opportunities. Attend networking events, such as those hosted by UNT SHRM and local HR organizations, to connect with industry professionals, gain insights into the field, and build lasting mentor relationships. Participate in case study competitions like the Purdue University HR Case Study competition, where you can apply what you’ve learned to real-world challenges and further develop your skills. Lastly, take the initiative in seeking internships or part-time roles to gain hands-on experience, as this will set you apart in a competitive job market. Embrace every opportunity to grow, learn, and connect — your involvement outside the classroom will be just as important as your academic achievements.