Isabel Morales

What did your academic and professional life look like before IE Business School?

Before joining IE Business School, I obtained a bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of La Sabana in Colombia. During this time, I also completed a certificate in organizational psychology. Following my bachelor’s, I gained extensive professional experience in HR and talent acquisition roles with companies like Twilio, Head Hunters International and Efecty.

Why did you choose to join the Master in Talent Development & Human Resources at IE Business School?

I chose to join the Master in Talent Development & Human Resources at IE Business School to deepen my expertise in HR management and gain insights into the latest trends and best practices in talent development. I was particularly drawn to IE Business School's reputation for excellence in business education and its focus on practical, hands-on learning.

Which elements of the program have you most enjoyed so far, and why?

The elements of the program that I have most enjoyed so far include the opportunity to engage with industry experts through guest lectures and workshops, as well as the emphasis on real-world case studies and simulations. These experiences have allowed me to apply theoretical concepts to practical HR challenges, enhancing my problem-solving and decision-making skills.

What skills do you think you need for a successful career in human resources and talent development?

In order to have a successful career in human resources and talent development, I believe it's essential to possess strong communication, interpersonal and leadership skills. Additionally, proficiency in data analysis, strategic planning and change management are becoming increasingly important in today's HR landscape.

If you could advise anybody considering following in your footsteps and taking the Master in Talent Development & Human Resources, what would you say?

For anyone considering pursuing the Master in Talent Development & Human Resources at IE Business School, I would advise them to fully immerse themselves in the program's experiential learning opportunities and to actively seek out networking opportunities with industry professionals. By taking full advantage of the resources and support available, students can maximize their learning and career prospects in the field of HR.

During your Master in Talent Development & Human Resources, which courses have you found most enjoyable so far?

During the program, I have found courses such as Employee Experience; Learning and Development; and Business Strategy and HR to be particularly enjoyable and impactful. These courses have provided valuable insights into effective talent acquisition strategies and the dynamics of managing organizational change, which are highly relevant to my career goals.

Tell us about your go-to-market strategy internship at RiffTide. What does your role entail? How did the program prepare you to tackle your responsibilities?

In my go-to-market strategy internship at RiffTide, I was responsible for identifying potential partnerships with musicians, restaurants, bars and clubs. My role involved conducting market research, analyzing customer demographics and preferences, and preparing reports to support decision-making. The program at IE Business School equipped me with the analytical and strategic skills needed to tackle these responsibilities effectively, particularly in areas such as data analysis and stakeholder management.

How do you channel your professional experience in psychology and project management into HR? And what is the program teaching you about managing change?

I leverage my professional experience in psychology and project management to enhance my work in HR by applying principles of behavioral psychology to talent management strategies and utilizing project management techniques to streamline HR processes. The program at IE Business School is also teaching me valuable insights into managing change within organizations, which is crucial for implementing successful HR initiatives and driving organizational growth.