Chantelle Wilson

Human Resource Management Certificate (2010)

When Chantelle Wilson completed high school, she had no idea what she wanted to do with her life. She opted for the workplace and found a position as an HR coordinator with a geophysical company.

She was still learning on the job and enjoying the Human Resources field when her employer saw promise in her and asked her to fill a more senior HR position while a coworker was on maternity leave. She took the opportunity, and on the suggestion of her supervisor, sought out an educational program that would help her meet the challenges ahead.

"I researched programs and chose U of C Continuing Education because I felt it had greater diversity and depth...It was important for me to get a strong foundation in HR," says Chantelle. "I also like the hours and that it was a U of C program."

For the next two and a half years, Chantelle pursued her certificate--always choosing to do courses in classroom format. Meanwhile, in the workplace, she faced significant challenges as the company moved through two acquisitions.

"I was learning about HR and 'living' it at work at the same time," says Chantelle. "Having access to the teachers to discuss things that were happening in my workplace was very helpful...I really appreciated that they were willing to be my sounding board."

"Having been in HR for a while already, I had some knowledge of the field, but my classes anchored the premise behind the learning, and helped me understand why we do certain things and how they link to other components of HR. It opened my mind to many new ideas."

Despite always being the youngest in the class, Chantelle was able to prove herself to her classmates, and made some good friends along the way. She still turns to some of these people when she needs to talk something out.

Currently taking a deserved break after a few demanding years of school and work, Chantelle is already planning ahead. She is considering applying her certificate towards the Minor in Workplace Learning and then perhaps going on to complete a bachelor's degree.

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