HR executive enhances career with law degree

Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable fall 2023 graduates.

Being the first person in her immediate family to graduate college and earn a Master of Human Resources and Employment Law (MHREL) with an emphasis in conflict resolution while managing a full-time career was no easy task for Miranda Duffrin. But that's exactly what she will have accomplished when she graduates in December. 

"I am thankful that I was given the opportunity to achieve this goal," says Duffrin. "I know that my family were my number-one cheerleaders along the way."

With a Bachelor of Science in human resource management, Duffrin decided to pursue a law degree while in her undergraduate studies.

"I realized that my favorite courses were centered around business and employment law," says Duffrin. "While researching graduate programs that I was interested in, I found myself gravitating more towards employment law and was excited to find the MHREL program at ASU Law. I have truly enjoyed every class that I have taken here."

Having worked in various human resources roles over the past 15 years, pursuing the MHREL program at ASU Law seemed like the best next step for Duffrin.

Here, she elaborates on why she chose the program and reflects on her time spent at ASU. 

Question: Why did you choose ASU Law?

Answer: I chose ASU specifically because of the MHREL program and the flexibility of attending online classes. I was so impressed with the online classroom tools, and I don't feel like I missed out on any key experiences by attending online.  

Q: What's something you learned while at ASU Law — in the classroom or otherwise — that surprised you or changed your perspective?

A: Learning the concept of legal analysis helped change how I approach situations both professionally and personally. The practice of identifying important facts and underlying issues has changed how I engage and interact with others in a more efficient way.

Q: Which professor taught you the most important lesson while at ASU?

A: While I learned something from all my professors at ASU, Professor Facciola taught me how to take the skills I was learning through the program and apply them directly to my workplace. I have noticed a shift in how I assess situations and will continue to utilize these skills in my daily work.

Q: What's the best piece of advice you'd give to those still in school?

A: Prioritize taking care of yourself, and don't be afraid to seek support where you need it. There are so many resources available to help you be successful. 

Q: What advice do you have for those considering ASU Law?

A: Take a chance on yourself, and go for it! I was really intimidated by the thought of attending law school and almost talked myself out of it. After taking my first legal analysis class, I was hooked and am so glad I followed through with finishing the program. 

Q: If someone gave you $40 million to solve one problem on our planet, what would you tackle? 

A: I am most passionate about serving kids currently in foster care, so I would love to ensure teens in foster care have resources and support to help them be successful after they graduate high school. 

Q: Who, if anyone, helped you get here?

A: I am blessed with an amazing family and close friends who offered continuous support and encouragement throughout my program. I am also very thankful for an employer that offered flexibility in my work hours and a generous tuition reimbursement program that assisted me in graduating without student loan debt.