As a junior who changed her major to organizational leadership this year, Ashley Norberg’s advice to others about exploring the major is straightforward: “Do it. Absolutely do it. I wish I would have started this way.”
As a lifelong resident of Indiana, Norberg was well aware of Purdue University’s reputation, but she was missing certain features in her original major. “I wasn’t happy. There was no developing of my personal leadership skills. No discussions,” she said.
After expressing frustration in her program, a few friends suggested she check out organizational leadership, a program she was not aware of during her initial college search.
“Before I make a decision, I really do my research. I looked up job placements after graduation and the kinds of jobs I could get,” she said. “I knew I wanted to work with people, be hands-on, and make a difference. This major is very people focused. That’s what companies are going to. The program is up-to-date and real. Everything is not just black and white.”
Since she made the switch, Norberg has felt more engaged and excited about her future.
“The advisors here are amazing. I’m not just a number here. I also have gained a great deal of confidence in myself by being able to engage in class discussions, to talk about things and be very hands-on. That’s how I learn best,” she said. “I have received three internship offers so far, and more are coming. When I interviewed with the president at WestRock, he said, ‘I really want you; I just don’t know where. I could put you in management, in sales, in marketing. I could put you in HR. I know you’d do amazing in any of them’.”
About the organizational leadership major
Organizational leadership combines elements of training, supervision, project management, and human resource management to educate cutting edge workforce leaders who are sought after by technology-driven companies.
Students start by learning about the foundations of technology leadership, effective communication, and supply chain management. Classes are facilitated by award-winning faculty from around the world who introduce students to innovative and global perspectives. Upon graduation, students will have addressed countless workplace issues, completed at least one internship, and developed the skills necessary to be successful in today’s rapidly evolving workplace.
The organizational leadership program has a diverse student body, representing 30 states and 15 countries with a strong presence of military veterans and female technologists.