What to Expect

Human resources management students learn to create healthy, happy working environments. This is a field that can easily be combined with other interests.

Sandra Loxam, for instance, was drawn to this major because of her love of people and the law.

"Human resources seemed the natural choice where you can combine the interaction of working with people in various positions and levels within a company to applying employment and labor law," she says.

Expect to spend your mornings attending classes and another three to five hours a day studying.

"A large portion of the workload is group work," says Dimple Lakhani, who took graduate studies in human resources. "There are a lot of group meetings that take place during the day."

This emphasis on interpersonal skills can help you in other ways. "The interaction with your peers in class, in student associations, in business events and with faculty and staff constantly challenges your communication and problem-solving skills," says Loxam.

Lakhani was surprised at the feelings of confidence that developed after being with the program for a while. "Management sciences brings about the leadership spirit in a person."

How to Prepare

Lakhani suggests a well-rounded high school curriculum, including such courses as business, economics, social studies and information technology.

"[Take] English, or any other type of communication course that will develop your speaking and interpersonal skills, and any type of psychology-related course that allows you to develop an understanding of people, the way we are and how we think," says Loxam.

Loxam also advises becoming involved in extracurricular activities that develop interpersonal and public speaking skills. Lakhani recommends volunteering at a place like a hospital gift shop where you can observe the method of conducting business from a service-oriented perspective.