This month, I made the decision to say yes to a new job. I'll be starting on August 18th. It’s exciting. It’s a step forward in my career. It’s something I worked really hard to get. But it’s also a little terrifying. Transitions are weird like that. You can be thrilled about the opportunity in … Continue reading Taking a Leap of Faith
Author: Melissa Campbell aka GamerMomLuna
I’m Credentialed! Now what?
This morning, I sat for the aPHR certification. I was so nervous! It's marketed as a "knowledge based credential" for people who are just entering their HR careers, or for people with no prior HR experience who manage individuals. Well, I passed, so that's the exciting thing! But the more I think about the questions … Continue reading I’m Credentialed! Now what?
Grad School Doesn’t Stop for Vacations
Grad school doesn’t stop for vacations, and That’s okay! I snapped this photo from a hotel lounge, mid-way through a relaxing summer getaway. My laptop and second monitor open, iced chai latte in hand, yogurt parfait pushed off to the side. A toasted bagel with cream cheese acting as both fuel and reward. This isn’t … Continue reading Grad School Doesn’t Stop for Vacations
Culture and DEI: Intertwined, but Not Interchangeable
Recently, someone gave me feedback that made me pause and reflect: “DE&I is just a component of overall culture strategy—it’s not culture in and of itself. Were you a DEI champion or a culture champion?” It’s a fair question. And it’s one I think many HR professionals and organizational leaders should be asking themselves, especially … Continue reading Culture and DEI: Intertwined, but Not Interchangeable
Why I Turned Down a Job Offer, Even Though I Wanted the Role
Recently, I was offered a position with a local school district. It was a role I was excited about. It aligned with my background, would have let me make a direct impact, and offered the kind of work I care deeply about. But after careful thought, I turned it down. The reason? The salary. This … Continue reading Why I Turned Down a Job Offer, Even Though I Wanted the Role
Breaking Into HR: Lessons from a Non-Traditional Path
Pursuing a career in HR when you didn’t start there can feel intimidating, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. Here’s how I made the leap, what I’ve learned, and what I’d tell anyone else considering the jump. The Long Way Around When I graduated with my bachelor's degree in Social Work back in 2005, I thought … Continue reading Breaking Into HR: Lessons from a Non-Traditional Path
Job-Hunting in HR: A Fellow Perspective
Confession time: I’m currently searching for my next role in Human Resources, too, so please don’t read this as expert advice from a guru who has it all figured out. Consider it a field note from someone walking the same path, sharing what I’ve noticed (and what I’m still wrestling with) in hopes it helps … Continue reading Job-Hunting in HR: A Fellow Perspective
Beyond Buzzwords: Practicing Empathy as a Core Leadership Skill
Empathy is often brushed off as a “nice-to-have” quality in leaders, but it’s actually a crucial skill that can transform teams and entire organizations. It’s not just about being warm and fuzzy; it’s about genuinely understanding and connecting with others in ways that drive meaningful results. When leaders practice empathy, they foster a culture where … Continue reading Beyond Buzzwords: Practicing Empathy as a Core Leadership Skill
Pride Month and HR: How HR Can Lead the Way in LGBTQIA+ Inclusion
June marks Pride Month, a time to honor the resilience, history, and contributions of the LGBTQIA+ community. For HR professionals and students, Pride Month isn’t just about rainbow flags and parades; it’s a chance to deepen your understanding of how to foster inclusive workplaces where every individual can thrive. Understanding the Challenges While progress has … Continue reading Pride Month and HR: How HR Can Lead the Way in LGBTQIA+ Inclusion
End of Term Reflections: Papers, Progress, and Perspective
I just submitted the final papers for my graduate classes this term, and I have to admit, it’s a mix of relief, pride, and a tiny bit of exhaustion. Flowers on the counter of my favorite local café and study spot. This semester stretched me in all the right ways. Between case studies, financial analysis, … Continue reading End of Term Reflections: Papers, Progress, and Perspective









