 |
 |
Alissa Luck, senior manager of organizational development at Kraft Foods, sees the MSLOC program as holding the key to leading-edge thinking in driving successful organizational transformation. In her practicum, a consulting engagement, she was pleased to see how applying the program's core concepts improved performance at an organization. Luck, who praises the MSLOC community, sums up, "The MSLOC degree provides me with the additional knowledge, credibility and network to ultimately achieve my career goals." I was looking for a program that would expand and accelerate my knowledge in the field of human resources and organizational development. I researched a number of MBA, master's and doctoral programs across the country. As soon as I came across MSLOC, I knew it was the right program for me. The program offers an optimal blend between academic rigor/theoretical grounding and a strong focus on how to practically apply that information to impact organizations and individuals. The core courses coupled with the ability to tailor elective curriculum provided me the right balance between flexibility and structure. And its core focus on learning and performance, strategic change and knowledge management provides leading-edge thinking in the areas that drive successful organizational transformation. The amazing part of this program is that everything I learn, I am able to apply immediately to real world situations. It is incredible to finish a reading or a discussion in class and know exactly how it will help a work or life situation in both the short and long term. MSLOC is helping me better diagnose opportunities for strategic improvement as well as develop comprehensive solutions that make a significant difference. For example, I just completed my practicum, which is an applied learning consulting engagement. Through this experience I learned to pull together the concepts of the core MSLOC courses (strategic change, learning and performance, strategy and knowledge management) to develop a holistic view and plan of action to help an organization improve its performance. It was inspiring to see the impact I could make on an organization through driving individual behavior change, improving team effectiveness and as a result propelling improved organizational performance. The MSLOC community. I initially joined the program for the academics (which has been everything I expected and more); however, what really stands out about my experience is the vast opportunities inside and outside the classroom to develop a wonderful network of colleagues and friends. The faculty, staff, alumni and students are all amazing individuals. The diversity of backgrounds of students in the classroom provides rich conversations. The faculty are primarily made up of practitioners in the field who not only excel in the workplace but also have tremendous passion around teaching others. The small class sizes and interactive teams and activities provide opportunities to challenge assumptions, ideas and perspectives. And I've never felt like just another student — the staff takes the time to get to know each person and help tailor the program to individual needs and goals. I have been a part-time student in the program for three years already and have enjoyed every class and valued each experience. I could not be happier with my decision to join MSLOC. I chose the MSLOC community to expand my knowledge, skills and abilities to advance in a field I am passionate about. MSLOC is a well-respected program from a top university, and as result I am joining a network of industry-leading professionals who continuously enhance my learning and challenge my thinking. I am confident that I will graduate with a stronger ability to transform organizations through leading strategic, sustainable and successful organizational change. Additionally, the learning opportunities continue long after graduation. Alumni can stay connected and engaged with opportunities that include attending community events, listening to guest speakers, interacting with current students, etc. The MSLOC degree provides me with the additional knowledge, credibility and network to ultimately achieve my career goals. Back to Student Profiles |
