Back to school

Going back to school for a master’s degree is a big decision for most college graduates. It takes time and effort, not to mention money. That’s why Taylor McClain, GC ’21, waited years to return.

“I only wanted to do it if I found a program that was affordable and really aligned with my interests,” McClain says.

After receiving her bachelor’s degree in 2016, McClain went to work in retail operations and purchasing in the grocery industry. She says hiring, training, and promoting people were the best parts of her job, and that soon led to an epiphany.

“I sort of got this idea that maybe I should be in human resources,” McClain says. She researched HR programs and found the School of Professional and Continuing Studies at the University of Richmond.

“It was flexible,” McClain says. “I could continue working while going to school at night, and I absolutely loved it. Especially at that point in my life and career.”

McClain enrolled in SPCS in January 2020 and despite pivoting to online courses during COVID-19, the smaller class sizes, accessible faculty, and friendly classmates made it an ideal fit. “I felt right away I picked the right program.”

Two years after graduation, McClain had another light bulb moment. She quit her job for a career gap, taking up a Spanish education immersion program in Latin America. McClain traveled to 19 countries in eight months, enhancing her Spanish and her empathy. “It makes you a better professional, especially if you’re in HR,” she says. “I imagine in a lot of careers.”

McClain returned to Richmond and secured a new job as a human resources manager, and she credits SPCS.

“It gave me a lot of confidence, support, and permission to pivot my career in the way that was right for me.”