Ferro’s journey at Western has been shaped by a passion for leadership and a desire to foster an inclusive environment for her peers. As a Faculty Leader, she helped welcome new students and guide them through their transition into university life. “I wanted every student to feel supported both academically and socially,” she shares. “Applying principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion in my role helped me create a welcoming space for students from all backgrounds.”

Her dedication to community extends beyond orientation programming. As part of ACE Western – formerly DECA Western – Ferro served on the communications team, where she organized outreach initiatives, promoted engagement, and strengthened communication within the organization. She also played a vital role in Students Offering Support (SOS), a student-led volunteer group offering peer-to-peer academic help. Through this work, she contributed to student success while gaining valuable leadership and communication experience. “Supporting others helped me grow, too,” Ferro reflects. “It strengthened my ability to lead, listen, and communicate effectively.”

The Faculty of Social Science has been central to Ferro’s academic development. Her coursework deepened her understanding of human behaviour, workplace dynamics, and equity-focused thinking—foundational elements for her future in human resources. “The faculty has equipped me with the skills and perspectives essential for a career in HR,” she explains. “Learning about organizational structures, employee needs, and inclusive practices has shaped my understanding of what ethical and effective HR looks like.”

Ferro’s growth accelerated even further through a Co-op opportunity as an HR Intern at HOOPP, where she applied her academic training directly to real-world human resources work. “My courses helped me build a strong foundation in understanding people, communication, and organizational behaviour,” she says. “At HOOPP, I used that knowledge while supporting recruitment, learning and development, and daily HR operations. It showed me how classroom learning truly translates into the workplace.”

Community support played a defining role in Ferro’s university experience, especially through the Social Science Soph program. This initiative connected her with peers, faculty, and staff who were eager to help students succeed. “The community within Social Science is incredibly welcoming,” she shares. “Through Sophing, I realized how accessible support is here. Knowing there were people ready to listen and provide advice created a strong sense of belonging.” This culture of mutual care empowered Ferro to engage more fully in her studies and campus life.

Outside the classroom, her involvement in ACE Western, Students Offering Support, and the Soph program enriched her experience and strengthened her leadership skills. These roles allowed her to collaborate with diverse peers, navigate new challenges, and contribute to a more inclusive student environment. “Each group taught me something different,” Ferro notes. “Together, they helped me grow personally and professionally while allowing me to give back to the Western community.”

Among her many courses, HR Research (MOS 3280) stands out as a turning point in Ferro’s academic journey. “It deepened my understanding of how evidence-based research informs effective HR practices,” she recalls. Through data analysis, case studies, and hands-on projects, she developed practical skills essential for evidence-driven decision-making. “The course strengthened my ability to approach HR challenges analytically,” she adds. “It inspired me to integrate research into my future career.”

Chryslyn Ferro’s story reflects the spirit of the Faculty of Social Science: a community that empowers students to lead, learn, and thrive. Her journey demonstrates how academic excellence, inclusive leadership, and real-world experience come together to build strong, confident professionals.

Celebrate Ferro’s inspiring path with us, and stay tuned for more stories from students who are shaping their futures—and strengthening our community—at Western University.