Apply

Scales Ashley

Ashley Scales at The TemPositions Group.

Ashley Scales at The TemPositions Group.
Ashley Scales at The TemPositions Group.

Since graduating from the University of Hartford with a BA in Psychology in 2013 and an MS in Organizational Psychology in 2014, Ashley Scales has met early success in her professional life. She knew good things were on the horizon when on her last day as a graduate assistant at the University of Hartford she received a phone call from a recruiter requesting an interview with her the following Monday. After a few of interviews in a competitive New York City market, Scales used the skills and experiences she acquired at the University of Hartford to land a recruiter position at TemPositions, a 53-year-old staffing firm in Manhattan.

In her position as recruiter Scales meets daily with groups of people from a variety of fields and industries—ranging from executive assistants working in engineering firms or development associates working in nonprofit organizations, to directors of finance managing Fortune 500 organizations or human resource professionals responsible for the benefits administration of hundreds of employees. As Scales notes, “In just a short time in my position I have met many interesting people, from people who are just starting their careers to others who have 20 years or more of work experience. I am fortunate to have the opportunity to help them find a career that fits their personality and skill set and one in which they can make a positive impact.” After just one year at the company, she was selected to become a certified staffing professional, which will allow her to keep abreast of critical state and federal employment laws, and to learn more about all facets of human resources and organizational development.

Scales attributes much of her professional success to the preparation she received in the College of Arts and Sciences. As Scales recalls, “While a student I felt like the faculty and staff believed in me and went out of their way to help me succeed.” Scales remembers a time in her first year when she needed a little bit of help. “I was not doing well in school, getting sidetracked by not prioritizing my responsibilities and on the verge of giving up. Fortunately, I crossed paths with several faculty members who truly believed in me and helped me get back on track. From then on I remained on the dean’s list and even made the president’s list in my final semester. I returned to the University to pursue a master’s and graduated in a year!”

Scales attributes her effective communication skills to her courses in A&S. She notes, “The classes in the College of Arts & Sciences were just the right size to allow for fruitful discussions between classmates and professors. In these classes I was able to develop great communication skills that have helped me to interact effectively with my clients.”

Scales is grateful to a number of faculty and staff in the College of Arts and Sciences, and the University at-large for supporting her in her academic pursuits. Chief among them is Olga Sharp, PhD, Scales’ advisor and mentor. As Scales notes, “Through each step of my academic, professional, and personal journey Dr. Sharp maintained a strong confidence and pride in me. Her easy-going spirit and sharp intellect motivated me to be the best version of myself I could be!”

Scales is also appreciative for the support of Lynn Thibodeau, computer science instructor; Patricia McKenna-Grant, director, Connections Health Education and Wellness Center; John Kniering, director, Career Services; Suzanne Anderson-McNeil, assistant vice president, Student Health and Wellness; Tina Pesola, manager of Student Services and Evaluations, A&S; Amber Connelly, coordinator of Academic Services, Barney School of Business; Sandra Morgan, Barney School of Business faculty; and Sarah Ketay, psychology faculty; all of whom had a positive impact on Scales’ development.

Recently, Sharp traveled to New York City to catch up with Scales and to congratulate her on successfully passing the Human Resource Professional Certification exam. Scales and Sharp had a chance to reminisce over Brooklyn’s Fornino pizza while looking at a beautiful Manhattan skyline. “I am so proud of everything Ashley has achieved,” Sharp says. “To me, she exemplifies a true U of H success story. It was great to follow her journey from an undergraduate student to a successful professional in her chosen field. It took a lot of hard work, perseverance and positive ‘can do’ attitude.  What is also important is that Ashley made a lot of good friends along the way.”