University News

Just Hired: Katarina Goumas

November 21, 2024

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Just Hired! Through the experiences of local, regional, national and international students, Western Illinois University has some incredible alumni who are changing the world in the workforce. This series will feature students from all over the world who are hired post-graduation.

MACOMB/MOLINE, IL - - Meet Katarina Goumas, a Spring 2024 Human Resource Management graduate who has accepted a job with John Deere Co.

"I landed this position through a combination of past internship experiences with the company as well as relevant skills I developed in my coursework at WIU," Goumas said. "The application process started with my interview for my internship back in 2023, where I highlighted all the skills I learned from my prior internship with a different company. From there, I was invited back to intern for another summer which then led to an offer for a full-time position post-grad."

Goumas feels she learned a lot during her time at WIU and has a full, comprehensive understanding of human resources.

"From courses on labor laws to employee benefits and staffing, I acquired a deep understanding of how HR plays a critical role in employee development, the culture of an organization, and the overall success of the business. From group projects to internships, I had the opportunity to see all my classwork come to life. Additionally, my active involvement in the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) allowed me to build connections with HR professionals in the community further strengthening my HR network. I would like to thank my professors, Dr. Stewart and Mr. Western for their guidance and support during my time at WIU. Their combination of knowledge and real-life experience not only broadened my understanding of the industry but also inspired me to pursue a career in Human Resources," Goumas said.

Goumas plans to stay involved with WIU by continuing to support the Student Human Resource Management (SHRM) chapter.

"I would love to speak about my HR experiences and how they all started at WIU. Additionally, I look forward to alumni events in the future to stay up to date on new opportunities at the university," Goumas said.

To share your hiring story with WIU, visit forms.gle/him2LFf9eyCb5yKk9.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing