Experienced Professional Seeks an HR Edge
Last Updated June 6, 2022
Nikki Larkin brought plenty of practical experience to Villanova’s online classroom when she began the Master of Science in Human Resource Development (MSHRD) program after eight years in the field.
After graduating from college, Larkin spent 11 years at Target, working her way up to become general manager of three locations and amassing valuable human resource experience along the way.
“I was able to learn HR on the job. And I really, really fell in love with it,” Larkin said.
Larkin entered Villanova’s online MSHRD program in 2017 and soon after landed a job as a human resources business partner with Amazon. In her role, she focuses on working directly with leaders throughout the organization, helping recruit the best talent available who will work toward meeting a company’s strategic goals.
“I’m heavily involved in all facets (of HR) – workers’ comp, training, staffing and development,” Larkin said. “I have about 1,300 employees, a diverse, part-time workforce with high-volume hiring, which directly correlates with my experience at Target.”
A Return on Investment
To add to her HR expertise, Larkin began searching for a program that offered academic quality and flexible benefits that fit within her busy schedule. With a full-time job that demands varying work hours, Larkin saw online education as her only practical option.
“I work a ton during holidays; nights and weekends are full; it’s that type of environment,” Larkin said. “I couldn’t necessarily make it by going to an on-campus program.”
Villanova’s respected reputation, interactive classroom and program cost sealed the deal for Larkin.
Larkin appreciated that she could hear lectures in real time instead of them being prerecorded. She also appreciated the economic value of Villanova.
A Program That Brings Personal Fulfillment
“I feel fulfilled in a way I haven’t outside of work in a long time,” Larkin said of Villanova’s program. “I’ve definitely developed a sense of pride in myself.”
These are strong words considering Larkin originally had some apprehension entering Villanova’s program.
“I didn’t do great as an undergrad. I didn’t have a ton of direction,” she said. “I was nervous about being successful in the MSHRD program. I’ve had to work really hard, but it’s definitely gotten less challenging as I’ve gone on in the program and I’ve become a better writer and a better student. It’s still a lot of work but it’s been honestly all good.
“My husband and I are also expecting our first child. So being able to go through the program and take on a new job, the experience has been great,” Larkin said.
