From Supporting Students to Becoming One: Katelyn Rains and the Online MS in Leadership & HR Development

When Katelyn Rains decided to pursue her master's degree, she was already deeply embedded in higher education: working full time in graduate admissions, guiding prospective LSU Online students, and watching them chase their dreams.

Inspired by these other students, Katelyn decided to take a leap. While working full time in human resources at LSU, she enrolled in the online Master of Science in Leadership and Human Resource Development (MS LHRD) program. As a former Special Programs Graduate Admissions Officer, Katelyn had supported online learners from across the country. Seeing their dedication firsthand became the push she needed to invest in herself and pursue her degree.

Now, as a graduate of the program and an HR Analyst at the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine, she's achieved her goal and reshaped her career trajectory.

Meet Katelyn Rains

What initially made you apply to the online LSU MS in Leadership & Human Resource Development program?

As someone who was already working in higher education in graduate admissions and supporting adult learners, I saw firsthand the value of graduate education. The MS in Leadership & Human Resource Development stood out to me because of its emphasis on practical, real-world application, and it aligns with my long-term career plan to transition into human resources. I also loved that the program offered a concentration in Workforce Development, which matched my interests in talent development, organizational strategy, and workforce trends. As a full-time LSU employee and LSU alumna, pursuing my degree through LSU Online felt like a natural next step and was a flexible option.

How did your experience working with online students in graduate admissions shape your perspective before entering the MS LHRD program yourself?

My role in graduate admissions gave me a unique perspective. Before becoming a student, I worked behind the scenes helping others start their graduate journey. I reviewed graduate applications, worked closely with LSU Online enrollment and student success coaches, and supported prospective students through the admissions process.

I was inspired by students from different walks of life across the country balancing full-time jobs, families, and academics. Watching others' journeys made me appreciate how hard people work to make it happen, and it motivated me to apply. When it was my time to start the program, I was determined, and it was nice to know I had classmates going through the same journey.

As an LSU HR professional, how have you applied what you've learned in the MS LHRD program to your current role?

In my current role as a Human Resources Analyst in the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine, I have taken what I learned in the program and applied it directly to the work I do every day. Whether working on implementing and improving onboarding processes, supporting organizational changes, or analyzing data, I find myself drawing from concepts I learned in class.

Overall, the MS LHRD program gave me a more strategic and people-centered approach to HR. It helped me move from simply following processes to finding ways to actively improve them. The program gave me a better understanding of how people, systems, and strategy all connect. It has helped me think more critically about how we support employees across the organization.

How did you balance life, work, and studies while pursuing your degree?

It was definitely a juggling act at times! I prioritized time management, setting boundaries, and giving myself grace along the journey! I will not pretend it was always easy, but I found my rhythm by being intentional with my time. I used weekends to get ahead on assignments and set aside time each evening after work for school. I found a balance that worked for me. Having a dedicated support system, both professionally and personally, also made a difference in my journey to pursue a master's degree.

What unique insights did you gain from being both an LSU employee and a graduate student at the same time?

Being both an LSU employee and a graduate student gave me a new perspective. It was eye-opening to see how the behind-the-scenes work we do truly impacts students. I had always been committed to supporting students, but actually being in their shoes made it personal to me. It made me more intentional in my role. That experience deepened my connection to LSU and reminded me just how meaningful our work really is.

How did the program prepare you for your career or career advancement?

The program gave me both the tools and confidence to step into the HR field, and I have grown so much in a short amount of time—more than I expected! The coursework helped me build skills in areas like data-driven decision-making, organizational development, and change management, which I am already using in my day-to-day work. I have been able to take on more responsibility and initiative in my role and apply what I have learned in ways that make a difference. It has been rewarding to see how I can add value in my role and contribute to my department in a meaningful way. I feel prepared and excited to keep learning, growing, and building my career in this field!

How has the program impacted your personal and professional life?

Personally, earning this degree reminded me of what I am capable of and how much I can handle. I feel proud to say I finished my master's in HR while working full-time and navigating the difficulties of life. Professionally, the program is what sparked my interest in HR. It has expanded my knowledge, and I have now developed a genuine interest in the field. I often find myself thinking critically and wanting to understand the "why" behind HR policies and practices. I am constantly looking for ways to improve processes and be more intentional in the work I do.

What was your favorite aspect of the program?

I loved how applicable everything was. The assignments pushed me to look at my own workplace and apply concepts directly. There would be times I was doing an assignment or project that directly related to something I was doing at work, and it made the learning feel relevant and meaningful. I also appreciated the support of the LHRD faculty and my classmates. I felt supported throughout the entire program.

What would you say to fellow LSU staff who are thinking about advancing their education through LSU Online?

Go for it! It is a great opportunity to invest in yourself and grow professionally and within the LSU community. The flexibility of LSU Online makes it possible to pursue your educational goals without putting your life on hold. LSU also offers staff and faculty educational benefits to grow, learn, and advance their career paths with tuition exemption.

Is there anything else you'd like us to know?

Just that I am grateful for this experience. The program helped me grow as a person and an HR professional. Being an LSU Online graduate student while working alongside the amazing LSU Online team made the journey even more special. LSU Online helped me step into a new chapter of my career, and I am genuinely excited for what is ahead.

Advance Your Career Without Pressing Pause

Whether you're working full time like Katelyn, raising a family, or navigating both, LSU Online offers access to flexible, accredited programs that fit your life. The online Master of Science in Leadership and Human Resource Development from LSU equips working professionals with the tools to lead strategically, solve real-world workforce challenges, and make a measurable impact.

Ready to take your next step? Learn more about the online MS in LHRD or the online MS in LHRD with a concentration in Workforce Development, and apply today!