Gabriella Irwin-Parra '25, M'26, a 3+1 student at the Barney School of Business, has secured a position as an HR coordinator with Hyatt Regency. Having majored in management during her undergraduate studies, she is now pursuing her MBA, driven by her passion for people and organizational development.
Gabriella credits several experiences at UHart for her professional growth, including those gained through the Barney School, the Allan Center for Career and Professional Development, and the Center for Student Success, as well as support from faculty, staff, and advisors. She notes that her knowledgeable professors introduced her to professionals who have since become mentors. Résumé reviews, career fairs, mock interviews, and one-on-one mentoring conversations have been instrumental in helping Gabriella achieve her professional goals.
“I have had numerous professors who became mentors throughout my academic and career journey," she shares. "Their support allowed me to use them as a sounding board for my future career plans. Additionally, I met mentors through various extracurricular activities, including my campus job, club leadership roles, and specific cohort programs.”
As an undergraduate, Gabriella served as a learning and development intern at ConnectOne Bank. She remained active in extracurricular activities, including STRIDE, Strong Independent Sisters, the Barney School of Business Ambassador Program, and The Women's Advancement Initiative. Her favorite aspect of UHart is the people. “The individuals I met throughout my UHart journey shaped me the most," Gabriella explains. "I developed both friendships and professional relationships with many people and communities. Each person I encountered genuinely wanted to see me succeed and was willing to support me.”
Gabriella plans to apply the skills she acquired at UHart in her new role at Hyatt Regency. “I learned interview skills during the hiring process, gained knowledge of HR and management from my classes, and developed communication abilities through student leadership experiences," she says, "along with administrative experience from the Barney Ambassadors program."
Gabriella’s advice to incoming students? “Enjoy every single experience! Before you know it, your college career will be over, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly it goes by. Take advantage of every opportunity and door that opens for you!”
Gabriella Irwin-Parra '25, M'26, Barney School of BusinessI have had numerous professors who became mentors throughout my academic and career journey. Their support allowed me to use them as a sounding board for my future career plans.