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As the world of business and technology constantly evolves, it's crucial for HR professionals to stay on top of their game by engaging in professional development.
Whether you're looking to learn new skills, discover industry trends, or master best practices, continuing education is a must for staying competitive and achieving career success. With laws and regulations changing all the time, and emerging technologies shaking up industries, expanding your knowledge base will ensure you remain an integral part of any organization.
Embarking on a journey of education can be a transformative experience for professional development. Tianna's story of pursuing Ashton College's online Human Resources Diploma program is a shining example of how investing in education can help take one's career to new heights.
Tianna Mae, like many HR professionals, had a strong desire to learn and grow in her career. She knew the value of professional development but needed a way to balance it with her full-time work. That's when she found Ashton College's online Human Resources Diploma, and it turned out to be even better than she had hoped.
“Before taking the HR program, I have a Diploma in Accounting and Certification in Business Management. I have worked in the HR/Recruitment field for several years but wanted the flexibility to work full-time and pursue an online education to advance my career opportunities and be a more attractive prospective employee for future roles with an HR diploma,” explains Tianna.
With few part-time HR diploma programs available in her area in Alberta, Canada, Tianna decided that Ashton College's online program would best suit her needs. Despite being nervous about the deliverables of the courses, she said “It was the best decision I’ve made in my educational journey.”
Tianna found great benefit from the course material related to recruitment and selection, sharing “It’s great [for me] to have a better understanding of processes [and] a solid foundation of learning [that I] have gained from this educational experience.”
The insightful instructors and enriching discussions with peers in class also attributed to Tianna's successful educational journey: “I always looked forward to attending my classes. The instructors, course content, and students made it all worthwhile.”
Describing her experience, Tianna states, “It’s work, but hard work paid off in the end. Having a positive mindset and having goals will keep you self-disciplined throughout your educational journey. It was a great experience for me, and I know it will be for other students too. Time flies when you're having fun!”
The flexibility of taking classes online allowed Tianna to maintain a balance between her studies and daily life while gaining invaluable knowledge from her instructors who had real-world insight and experience into the subjects they were teaching.
Particularly beneficial for her job were topics related to recruitment and selection: “The most relatable course content that relates to my role is the Recruitment & Selection course.” She also found great value in discussing ideas with peers during class, coupled with relevant projects/presentations.
“I loved the in-class discussions with my peers and the HR projects/presentations,” recalls Tianna fondly.
Speaking about her experience with the program, Tianna commented: “The support I received doing an online course was by far better than what I’ve received from traditional classroom setting learning. Although this was an online course, it didn’t feel online to me. The instructors were incredibly engaging and responsive with their students and made sure to make us feel welcome. I would definitely take another program with Ashton again!”
According to Tianna, her experience with the HR diploma program from Ashton College has enabled her to become more qualified and prepared for entry-level HR jobs – even before she had completed her studies.
Tianna attributes this readiness for employment to networking, either through LinkedIn or attending HR community events, as well as gaining exposure and knowledge of the field thanks to the program. She stated, “the diploma program has certainly helped me gain more exposure and understanding of the HR world and has prepared me for my current or future employment roles.”
When asked about any strategies or techniques that have helped keep her motivated and productive throughout her search for HR jobs, Tianna offered advice: “Writing a professional resume and cover letter will help you go a long way. The ability to now talk about what I’ve learned and experienced is certainly a motivator in applying for roles. It’s great to know your accomplishments and use them to showcase yourself in your resume and your interview. Looking outside your comfort zone can pay off as well with remote-only work opportunities or hybrid work models; do what suits you and your career progression.”
Tianna's advice highlights the importance of a proactive and strategic approach to job searching, including the use of strong application materials and a willingness to consider new opportunities.
Tianna's experience in the program was not limited to just learning from instructors. She also found value in connecting with her peers who shared her interests in the field of HR.
Tianna notes, “I made connections through online discussions and through networking on social platforms, which gave me even more confidence in the field.” These connections not only helped her build her professional network but also contributed to a positive learning experience by allowing her to exchange ideas and perspectives with other students.
This highlights the importance of networking and collaboration in the field of HR, where building relationships with colleagues and industry professionals can lead to new opportunities and growth.
Tianna's journey with Ashton College has led her to become a thriving HR professional. She shares, “I am thrilled to be working as a Talent Acquisition Specialist for Western Canada. The knowledge and experience I gained through the program have been invaluable to my success.” With the help of Ashton College's online Human Resources Diploma program, Tianna has achieved her career goals and continues to make strides in her field.
When asked what advice she would give to students considering enrolling in a similar diploma program, Tianna stated: “Investing in yourself is the best investment you’ll ever do. Your future self will thank you for clicking ‘apply’.”
Tianna's story is a great reminder that success is achievable with the right education and a willingness to learn. Thanks to Ashton College's flexible online courses, everyone can acquire the skills and knowledge they need to achieve their career aspirations.
At Ashton College, we believe that everyone should have access to quality education, no matter their circumstances. Our online programs are designed to be flexible, allowing learners like Tianna to pursue their dreams while still managing a work/life balance.
At Ashton College, providing accessible and flexible education is a top priority. We understand that many learners, like Tianna, have work and personal responsibilities that can make it difficult to attend traditional on-campus classes. That's why we offer a range of online programs designed to accommodate busy schedules and different learning styles. Our online programs provide students with the flexibility they need to pursue their education while balancing their other responsibilities.
We believe that everyone should have access to quality education, regardless of their circumstances. Our online programs are taught by industry professionals and provide students with the same level of instruction and support as our on-campus programs. We strive to create a positive learning experience for all of our students, no matter where they are located or what their schedules may be.
Ashton College's online Human Resources Diploma program provides the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed – no matter where you are in your career journey.
Ashton College offers a comprehensive Diploma in Human Resources Management (DHRM) program, designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge needed for successful human resources management. Whether you are looking to provide services to individuals or work closely with an organization's executive team, this program provides a comprehensive overview of all the facets that make up effective HR practices. Upon graduation, students will have a deep understanding of how to strategically manage an organization's workforce, which can significantly boost their career prospects.
At Ashton College, we are proud to align our HR diploma with the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM). This partnership reflects our commitment to providing students with a program that meets the highest industry standards and ensures that our graduates are well-equipped to excel in the field of HR.
Throughout the course, students will gain a range of HR skills, from workforce planning and development to training initiatives, compensation and benefits schemes, labor relations protocols, occupational health and safety processes, and HRIS software usage. This diploma focuses on building effective relationships across all organizational levels through HR practices, empowering students to become skilled and successful HR professionals.
So, if you're looking to take the next step in your professional development, consider enrolling in Ashton College's HR Diploma program. Who knows? You could be the next success story like Tianna!
Ready to take the next step in your career journey? View our Human Resources Management Diploma program page today to learn more about the program and the next steps you need to take for admission.
To read more inspiring student stories, visit the Ashton College Human Resources blog.
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