Yingzhuo Dong, ’24 MHRIR: Combining Economics and HR to Build Stronger Workplaces
Tuesday, October 7, 2025
Meet the Minnesota Carlson community and learn about the experiences and career connections we offer.
What was your initial reason or motivation for pursuing a Master of Human Resources & Industrial Relations?
I spent my undergraduate years studying economics, where I focused heavily on numbers and data. Over time, I realized that what truly motivated me was not only analyzing trends but understanding the people behind them. I became more interested in how organizations support and develop their employees. Pursuing a Master of Human Resources & Industrial Relations allows me to combine analytical thinking with human connection, helping create workplaces where people and performance grow together.
Why did you choose Minnesota Carlson?
I had a great experience at the University of Minnesota during my undergraduate studies, which made Carlson a natural choice for me. Carlson’s strong reputation, valuable resources, and close connections with major firms in Minnesota make it an ideal place to grow both academically and professionally. I believe Carlson can provide the best coaching, hands-on learning opportunities, and career support to help me develop into a well-rounded HR professional.
What has been or was your most valuable Carlson experience?
Career services have been the most valuable part of my Carlson experience. The personalized coaching and strong faculty connections truly set Carlson apart. Transferring from CLA to Carlson was a completely new experience—Carlson is smaller, more focused, and very student-centered. My career coach, Stephen Glomb, along with all the other fantastic faculty members in the department, guided me through one of the most confusing and stressful times as I searched for my first full-time job before graduation. I also appreciated the strong internship opportunities and Carlson’s close relationships with top companies in Minnesota’s tech and business industries. Even after graduation, I’ve continued to stay connected with faculty and peers who supported my journey.
Program
'24 MHRIR
Fun Fact
I love road trips—I’ve driven all the way from Minnesota to California and New Mexico, and I’m planning to drive to Florida this year.
Undergraduate School and Major
University of Minnesota – Twin Cities
Economics, with a Minor in Management
Most Recent Employer & Job Title
Rudolph Community and Care & HR Analyst - Business Partner
Carlson’s strong connections with Twin Cities companies gave me hands-on experience with real business challenges that you can’t find anywhere else.
How did being part of Minnesota Carlson’s broader business ecosystem—spanning the Twin Cities community, local industries, and global partners—shape your experience in the Master of Human Resources & Industrial Relations program?
The strong connections Carlson has with Twin Cities companies create opportunities that you simply can’t find anywhere else. These relationships allowed me to engage with real business challenges, learn directly from industry professionals, and understand how HR strategies work in practice. The value of Carlson’s network extends far beyond graduation. Seeing alumni succeed across different industries and around the world is incredibly inspiring. This combination of hands-on experience, strong local ties, and a global community has been truly invaluable to my career journey.
How has your Carlson experience helped you change your career path and get to where you are?
Earning my degree from Carlson helped me land my first full-time job in the Twin Cities and build a strong foundation for my career. The hands-on experience I gained at Carlson taught me more than HR knowledge—it taught me how to learn, adapt, and apply new tools effectively. With technology and AI constantly evolving, this mindset has been key to staying efficient and innovative at work. By combining the HR skills and problem-solving approach I learned at Carlson with my background in economics and data, I was able to shape a career path that fits both my strengths and passions.
What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into Carlson’s Master of Human Resources & Industrial Relations program?
My advice for potential applicants is to approach the admission process as you would prepare for your first job offer. Demonstrate professionalism, confidence, and a clear understanding of why you are a strong fit for Carlson. The program values students who not only understand HR concepts but also strive to make a real impact in organizations. Highlight your curiosity, adaptability, and willingness to learn—these qualities matter just as much as academic success. Take time to connect with professors, alumni, and current students to learn from their experiences and build genuine relationships. Showing initiative and engagement will help you stand out and prove you’re ready to contribute to Carlson’s collaborative community.