Kathleen Beer talks about the value of flexibility in the EMHRM program
Learning online at the ILR School is perfect for the busy professional.
Kathleen Beer attributes parts of her success at the Brunswick Corporation in the role of lead HR for Corporate and Enterprise Functions to her time at the ILR School in the EMHRM program in 2020. The program challenged Beer to broaden her view of business, take on leadership roles, and think with a critical and versatile lens.
As a working mother with a demanding professional and personal schedule, Beer needed to find a flexible program without compromising on the quality of education. Beer decided to join the EMHRM program because of the world-renowned ILR School reputation, faculty expertise and research, and tailored curriculum. Furthermore, the EMHRM program was a perfect fit because it consists of both on campus and online learning.
Beer explains how the on campus learning was one of the highlights of the program: “I loved the on campus sessions. The face-to face interaction and opportunity to learn from the faculty, industry leaders, experienced CHROs and high caliber classmates was invaluable. Additionally, our cohort was amazingly thoughtful and well connected. It was wonderful to be a part of this supportive and collaborative group of strong HR leaders around the world.”
Learning online at the ILR School is perfect for the busy professional. Beer appreciates how the courses are scheduled to fit it into most people’s schedule (i.e. early mornings, late nights or weekends). The courses help Beer step back, reflect on current practices, and learn things to help improve her organization. Furthermore, Beer valued the “thoughtful feedback from the professors and their open availability for a phone call or question.”
Final advice from Beer for anyone looking into the EMHRM program:
“It is a fantastic experience, but it is an intense program. Be prepared to flex your time management muscles and make sure to get support systems in place. Additionally, take advantage of how in all the courses there is some aspect you can pull into your day job. This will not only help you in your role, but also better absorb what you are learning by applying it to what you are currently working on.”