Olivia Yang
Hometown
I am originally from China, Shandong.
Undergraduate (School & Major)
I graduated from McGill University in Canada, where I studied business in the Desautels Faculty of Management and majored in Human Resources Management and Labor Relations.
Why did you choose the MILR program?
I have always been passionate about Human Resources. Despite my five years of business studies in the past, I found myself hesitating between a focus on management and HR. The MILR program successfully merges both aspects, making it the perfect choice for me. In class, Professor Haggerty emphasized, 'We are business leaders first and HR professionals second.' The MILR program not only stands out as the top HR program but also a program that gears students with a comprehensive understanding of key business concepts.
What is your favorite part of MILR so far?
The sense of unity within our MILR cohort is incredibly unique and strong. I'm genuinely impressed by the caring and supportive community we've built together within our MILR community. Recognizing the paramount importance of professional networks in the HR field, MILR offers an excellent platform for connecting with these future CHROs. I believe the value of learning from my MILR peers is as significant as the knowledge we acquire in the classroom.
What do you like the most about living in Ithaca?
Ithaca is a scenic town cradled in breathtaking natural surroundings: waterfalls, deer, vineyards, hiking trails, and more. These are the gems frequently missing in big cities but are abundant here in Ithaca. As I prepare to transition to a large city after graduation, I deeply appreciate the time I'm savoring in this charming place.
What is your favorite class so far?
Organizational Behavior was one of my favorite classes. This course is well structured by combining the theoretical concepts with practices in the real world. With all the insightful assignments and case studies it offered, knowledge is delivered by creating relevant experiences rather than merely giving speech.
What was your previous experience / career prior to MILR?
Prior to MILR, I served as an Executive Search Consultant at a global leading recruitment firm. My primary focus revolved around talent acquisition and business development within the financial services, professional services, and legal industry.
What advice would you give to prospective students who are considering the MILR program?
I would highly recommend prospective students to get in touch with current MILRs and ask about their experiences at Cornell. People from our cohort are very sharing, they would be happy to share their backgrounds with you and to answer any questions you might have. Renting an apartment, applying for internships, waiving a course, there are so many things you can discuss with them before school starts.