Shrishti Prasad

Hometown

I come from a place called Bokaro Steel City, nestled in the Eastern state of Jharkhand, India. It's a small town with a rich cultural heritage and a strong sense of community which has had a key role in shaping me as an individual.

Undergraduate (School & Major)

I pursued my Bachelor of Technology degree in Information Technology at Manipal Institute of Technology, India. This opened doors to the banking and tech industry for me, where I applied my skills as a software engineer. After three years, I decided to pivot and pursued my MBA at Xavier Institute of Management, India post which I worked as an HR Business Partner for two years in the tech and consulting industry. I am currently enrolled in the MILR program at Cornell with a concentration in HR&O and am excited to continue my journey of learning and growth. Upon completion, I am keen to help organizations leverage data driven decision making for their Talent management strategy.

Involvement on campus 

On the academic front, I have worked as a Research Assistant for the Climate Jobs Institute, advocating for labor unions and worker safety through my work. I have also been working at the Yang-Tan Institute for the past year as a Teaching Assistant. I frequently participate in various on-campus student activities organized by the MILR student-run clubs and BRB socials, among others. Being actively engaged in campus life has enriched my overall student experience.

Why did you choose the MILR program?

I chose the MILR program for its academic rigor, reputation, and strong alumni network. Studying under professors who are eminent scholars in their fields is truly an honor. The program's focus on practical skills and its commitment to addressing pressing HR challenges aligns perfectly with my career goals.

What is your favorite part of MILR so far?

My favorite part of the MILR program is the close-knit cohort. As a small batch, we have gotten to interact with both our juniors and seniors, forming lifelong friendships and a supportive peer network as we navigate our lives as future HR professionals at Cornell and beyond. The collaborative and inclusive atmosphere within the program fosters a dynamic learning environment that I greatly appreciate.

What do you like the most about living in Ithaca?

I enjoy exploring the campus and the surrounding areas, especially the recreation trails. The campus looks particularly breathtaking in the Fall season. I also love attending seasonal downtown events. The natural beauty of Ithaca, coupled with its vibrant community, creates a unique atmosphere that I'm grateful to be a part of.

What is your favorite class/professor so far?

This is a tough question. I have several classes I loved, but I particularly enjoyed "Power and Influence" with Professor Brittany Bond and "Labor Economics" with Professor Garry Fields, to name a few. The depth of knowledge and practical insights they provide have been instrumental in shaping my understanding of HR and management principles. I also am very appreciative of the fact that we can take classes of our interest outside of ILR. I’ve taken a bunch of classes at the School and I’ve really enjoyed them, learning along the way.

Where did you intern last summer?

I interned with Citibank in New York City this past summer, working with their Global Diversity and Talent Management team. It was an enriching experience that allowed me to apply my academic learning to real-world situations and make meaningful contributions to the organization.

Where will you be going full-time post-graduation?

I will be returning to Citibank next year to join as an HR Management Associate in their two-year rotation program. I'm excited about the opportunity to continue growing within the organization and making a positive impact on their HR practices and workforce.

What advice would you give to prospective students considering the MILR program?

I believe a MILR degree is a fantastic career investment. The program's structure, academic rigor, peer and alumni network make it a standout choice. For prospective students, I recommend staying curious, actively engaging with faculty and peers and alumni. Reach out to people and leverage the Cornell connection to know new people, not just within ILR but the broader Cornell community as well. It's essentially what you make of it, so take the leap of faith, say Yes more often and make the best of the opportunity I would say!