Excellence in a Discipline | 2022-23
Amanda Van Ruiten
Excellence in a Discipline | Human Resources
What is your favorite Seidman memory?
I have absolutely loved most of my Seidman classes, particularly the courses specific to my Human Resources major. Many of my professors enhanced my experience with their kind demeanors and engaging energy. My favorite Seidman courses were Staffing and Development (MGT 429) with Kyle Brink and Consumer Behavior (MKT 351) with Jerry DiTrapani.
Our building namesake – Bill Seidman – exhibited many desirable traits of a leader such as innovation, integrity, curiosity, and future-mindedness. How did your experience at Seidman help you develop one or more of these traits?
One of my Human Resources professors (Dan Wiljanen, MGT 431) connected me to an internship in the HR department at Grand Valley which has enabled me to transfer my skills from the classroom to the workplace. My position gives me daily opportunities to collaborate with my colleagues on innovative new procedures that maximize efficiency within the department while also providing high levels of service to our faculty and staff. Some of my recent work has been shared with key members of the GVSU administration, as well as shared through the GVSU HRO website for all faculty and staff to utilize. I have really enjoyed being involved in the evolution of the department.
What would you like people in the community to know about Seidman graduates like you?
I have found my peers to be well-rounded individuals who are ready and eager to take on ambitious professional roles. The rigorous curriculum in Seidman exposes students to all aspects of the business world and consistently challenges students to apply their knowledge to matters outside of the classroom, producing minds that think outside of the box and efficiently develop optimal solutions to challenges in their industry. The students I will be graduating with in April are wise yet humble, making them exceptional additions to any company or community.
What is your career aspiration?
I strive to work my way into an Employee Relations Manager or Director position, preferably for a college/university or a school district. If I have time outside of the office, I have a strong interest in continuing my education and teaching human resources courses as an adjunct professor.
How did your time at Seidman College prepare you to contribute to your community as a Laker for a Lifetime?
Following graduation, I will be extending my employment with Grand Valley through the summer to assist the HR Business Partner team with the ongoing Workday implementation. I have had many outstanding mentors in the department while working as a student (special mention to my supervisor, Becky Berrevoets), and I am beyond excited to continue working with and learning from them as an alumna. #lakerfamily
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