1 CLA1 Xueyao Dong Westcliff University INT 501 EF Concentration: Purchasing and Human Resources Professor: Dr. Julia Sherm Octomber 20, 2021 2 Learning Objectives This was my third semester at Westcliff University, and I explored a wide range of helpful strategies and practical techniques that benefited my overall career and life balance. For instance, the habit of professional journaling helps me release my stress and motivate myself to keep on track towards my goal. From week 3, I started to prepare the professional portfolio, and I felt it was an excellent way to keep a record of my achievements and experiences. From week 5, the interview exercise taken with the senior manager from my department, I have learned about her personal experiences and know a little more about strategic leadership. Another valuable material that I learned from this class is always to be prepared. Before I interview the senior manager, I prepare additional questions to ask my supervisor and colleagues about my performance. I was nervous during the interview, but these extra questions helped me come down and make the conversion more smooth. At the beginning of this semester, my goal was to improve my communication skills in the workplace and learn how to be more flexible in dealing with incidents. From week six course’s video, “I Wanna Be a Human Resources Officer - A Day in the Life of a Human Resources Officer,” made me see some perspectives of the responsibility of a Human Resources Officer and provided me some direction to improve my interpersonal skills. I always find ways to improve my confidence when I communicate with people and learn how to be an active listener. Week seven’s video about “Internship Expectations vs. Realities- the Intern Queen” makes me think about expectations and realities at the workplace. What expectation does the employer look for, and how should I improve my performance regarding their expectation? 3 Additionally, through this semester, I realized different ways of conveying a message could have other effects and impact communication effectiveness. During the internship, I utilized the benefits of a supportive and positive environment. Taking everything into account, I believe that I made significant progress towards my goals, and I became more efficient and productive at work. Internship Experiences This semester I am considering switching to a new company that will allow me to practice my professional skills in the area of individual and corporate taxes. Therefore, I started my journey to submit job applications and prepare for an interview. Finding an appropriate position that matches my interests and abilities is not an easy task. I felt frustrated for the first few weeks when I did not get many responses. However, I record all my feelings and things that I need to work on in my resume and cover letter in my journal. Additionally, I love to write some inspirational and motivationa ...