This spring, Senior Michael Gallione accepted a human resources internship with LKQ headquarters in Antioch, Tennessee where he worked within the leave of absence department. Gallione worked with handling employee documents regarding medical, disability, military and personal leave, and also spent time learning how to perform benefit audits. 

“It has been an incredible opportunity to be part of such a great team and actually practice working in human resources,” said Gallione. “It has been a huge learning experience being able to learn about the leave of absence and benefits process. I have tried to soak up as much information as possible!”

CU’s small class sizes made it possible for Gallione to find his passion. He would not have even given human resources a second glance as a career option if it were not for former teacher Dr. Tim Rose. “I will be forever grateful to him and his human resources management class,” said Gallione. He also credited Dr. Valerie King for his professional and academic success, saying that she is the one who made CU feel like home. “She has encouraged me, pushed me, and led me in the right direction to succeed,” said Gallione. “She has truly moved mountains for me.”

After graduation, Galllione plans to pursue a career in human resources, a profession inspired by his CU experience. “I would love to be a part of training and development for a company,” said Gallione. “I want to teach and train employees the way my professors taught me, and work to help them reach their fullest potential in their careers.”

To nominate a someone as a student spotlight, email Mattie Jennings at mjennings@cumberland.edu.