Students of Alliant: Yon Richner

By Ashley Forbes, Winter 2009

Yon Richner is a second year Organizational Psychology student in the MGSM program. Somehow she is able to excel in both school and work, and still make time for what she is passionate about.

Recently you began working full time, can you tell me a little bit about what you do there? I was recently hired as an HR consultant for a medical device company in the South Bay. One of the organizational development initiatives I am leading is the performance management process; there was a need to tie company values to key behaviors and core competencies in the employees. It has been a great experience for me as I have been able to apply what we have learned in our classes thus far.

What has the transition into working and being a student been like for you? I find it easier than the other way around. When I left working full time to being a student full time, it was challenging because my time was unstructured. Working and taking two classes requires me to be vigilant about my time and how I spend it. I try not to get stressed about my time, but when I get overwhelmed, I eat some chocolate and breathe.

You also teach Lindy Hop right? Can you tell me a bit about what Lindy Hop is and how it fits into your life? Lindy Hop is a great stress reducer for me. I dance socially and also teach it. Teaching plays a significant role in my life because I enjoy seeing new dancers learn moves right before my eyes. I also compete and perform on occasion. It is so nice to have an activity that is creative and physical to balance my analytical side.

So, on what topic have you decided to focus your dissertation? My dissertation topic is about Asian American women and the use of power at the workplace. There is not a lot of literature out there on the topic, so I hope to be able to contribute to the research. It is important to manage perceptions at the workplace, particularly for Asian women, who can be stereotyped as being nonassertive.