±Ê´Ç²õ³Ù±ð»å:ÌýSeptember 2025
The learner spotlights feature students from Open Learning & Career Development who bring a wealth of dedication and diverse perspectives to their studies, and our programs benefit greatly as they work to advance their careers.
In this learner spotlight, we feature Nobonita, an inspiring individual who is working to transition from an administrative assistant role with ÍøºìºÚÁÏ's Faculty of Medicine, Global Health Office (GHO), to advancingÌýher career in Human Resources.Ìý
Driven by a desire to step into the HR world, sheÌýsought out ourÌýÌý²¹²Ô»åÌýÌýcertificate. This spotlight explores her journey, the impact of the program on her current role as Program Secretary with the College of Sustainability, and her aspirations for an HR position.
Starting the HR journey
What was your job or career before enrolling in the certificate?
I used to work as an administrative assistant with the Faculty of Medicine, Global Health Office (GHO) at ÍøºìºÚÁÏ.
Did the program fit your existing career path?
I am now working as a Program Secretary with the College of Sustainability where I help my team with recruiting teaching assistants and markers, managing job postings, communicating with the selected applicants, handling payroll, among other tasks. This program helped me gain detailed academic knowledge relevant to my job, allowing me to move forward smoothly.
This program helped me gain detailed academic knowledge relevant to my job, allowing me to move forward smoothly."
What were you hoping to gain from enrolling? Did you gain something different?
I wanted to step into the Human Resource world, and my plan is to work as a direct HR employee. The certifications helped me to gain academic knowledge about how thing works in a professional setting. As all the courses were online, I learned the techniques for balancing between the online and offline world. I also learned how to prepare and present team assignments or group presentations effectively in a fully online environment.
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Finding flexibility and supportive instructors
How did you find the courses? Did the flexibility accommodate your work and personal commitments?
I wanted to start a course on Human Resources Management. One day I was browsing the Faculty of Open Learning and Career Development website and found the courses there and began taking them one after another. I must emphasize theÌýflexibility. There is only one live class once in a week and all other submission dates are given at the very beginning, so that you can schedule all your commitments accordingly.
I must emphasize the flexibility. All submission dates are given at the very beginning, so that you can schedule all your commitments accordingly."
What were the instructors like?
The instructors were very helpful, and always responsive when needed. It is very important when you are doing courses online and seeking help from your instructor, as quick responses makes a big difference. I always just sent an email with any questions I had, and they were all quick to send me clear answers.
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Key takeaways and skills gained
What was the overall learning experience like?
It was just wonderful – no hiccups, very smooth. You just need to get a calendar when the course starts, mark all the submission dates, and go with the flow. Your classmates and instructors are there to help with anything and everything.
What specific skills or knowledge did you gain from the program? Did any courses stand out to you?
The first certificate, Human Resource Management, provided foundational knowledge about the HR world and clarified general concepts. My second certificate, Human Resource Leadership, was more about leadership skills and helped me to understand how leadership functions within a team. I particularly want to mention the course Ìýwhich taught me to handle different situations and conflicts. It was very impressive to learn various techniques for handling things not only at work but also in my personal life.
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Impact and future aspirations
How has the certificate progressed, or changed your career? Did it lead to a promotion, new job, or more responsibilities?
I aspire to work directly with HR professionals in the real HR world, so I am still actively searching for an HR job. This year I got more responsibilities in my current position with the hiring committee, and I am looking forward to working on these skills even more.
How have you applied these new skills or knowledge to your work?
Yes, I already shared my knowledge and skills with my team. They are happy with my performance, and I will continue to contribute more.
Do you have anything else you would like to add?
I would like to encourage people to take online courses through the Faculty of Open Learning and Career Development. These courses not only help you gain academic knowledge and skills, but also build your confidence in balancing your work, studies, and personal commitments. You will certainly become a multi-tasker.
Do you have any advice for those looking to advance/change their career?
We are all different people with our own plans and future goals. I highly recommend trying just one course; if you find the learning experience enjoyable, you will love the journey. I am going to take my third certification this fall in Strategic Leadership. You never know what opportunities await you or which path will work best for you—just stay engaged and keep learning! All the best wishes.
Let's celebrate Nobonita's incredible accomplishments and her commitment to growth! Her story is a powerful reminder that with dedication, you too can transform your career path. Her journey is a testament to the power of continuous learning and determination.
