Christina Lucas

Why did you choose the MILR program?

I was drawn to the MILR program because of its business-focused curriculum and global perspective. Within the program, I’ve also had the opportunity to take electives in the business school, which is the perfect training ground for understanding how HR can add value to the bottom line and what businesses are looking for in the talent space. Beyond that, because of the school’s strong national reputation, companies are eager to recruit from the program for a variety of HR-related positions across different sectors.

What is your favorite part about the MILR program?

My favorite part of the MILR program has been the sense of community among students and invested faculty—both come so naturally. With such an intimate cohort size, the program truly feels like a close-knit community within a vibrant intellectual haven.

What is your favorite class so far?

Human Resource Management was one of my favorite classes. As we’ve seen the traditional operational role of HR leaders take a dramatic shift in the last decade, more organizations have identified HR as a key business unit that has significant implications for achieving corporate objectives. This course helped me get a firm grasp of the key concepts, models, and strategies used in business.

What is your favorite part of Ithaca?

Wine country is definitely at the top of my list, but there are many other reasons why Ithaca is a great place to be: beautiful waterfalls, hiking trails, farmers market, fun food scene, and Cornell’s campus.

What advice would you give a prospective student?

If you can get into Cornell, GO! HR is a great career move — it’s multifaceted and values-based.  I think companies that invest in HR will be the most successful in the long run and this program equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to become great HR leaders.

What was your summer internship company/location?

General Mills headquarters in Minneapolis, Minnesota

What is the highlight from your summer internship?

My highlight was being tasked with challenging projects and learning to navigate the corporate environment. I was regularly exposed to senior leaders and had the constant support of a talented HR team.

Where will you be working full-time after you graduate?

I'll be living in Nashville, Tennessee and commuting to the General Mills Murfreesboro plant working as a Human Resources Business Associate.

More about Christina

Undergrad Degree: B.A. in Sociology from Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, North Carolina

Prior Work Experience: Community Relations and Recruiting