Sylvia Jusi
Silvia Jusi is the perfect example of what graduates consistently cite as the biggest strength of SDSU’s Professional Certificate in Human Resource Management program — instructors who work in the industry. Jusi is the human resources manager of First Associates Loan Servicing, and teaches the Compensation course at SDSU.
“I love sharing my passion for compensation and to feel like my work has a purpose, outside of just making money,” she said.
Jusi earned her B.S. in psychology from San Diego State University, and her M.A. in human behavior from National University — where she was a senior human resources analyst in compensation and benefits. Jusi is considered an industry expert, particularly in the area of compensation. She answered a few questions about her SDSU course.
How did you come to be an instructor with SDSU’s Human Resource Management program?
I was recruited by a previous program coordinator through LinkedIn.
What do you think are the biggest strengths of the program?
The program has strong and seasoned HR professionals who are passionate about what they do. As an instructor, I have witnessed how colleagues come together to improve on delivery techniques to provide the best learning experience for our students.
What do you hope students will take away from your Compensation course?
I hope my students move on with the ability to evaluate and properly classify jobs, provide market price analysis, and build sound compensation strategies.
Do you have a favorite anecdote or case study you share with students?
There are several case studies that are presented, but my favorite are relevant to current events. For example, “wage and hour” lawsuits and settlements.
What do the team projects entail?
There’s one team project that students work together throughout the 12 weeks. It encompasses the process of creating a salary structure from the ground up.
How do you see the HR profession changing?
HR, like so many other professions, has been highly impacted by new technology that affects every aspect of HR. Information is readily available for both professionals and non-professionals, which challenges us professionals to raise our standards.
Is there anything you want potential students to know about taking your class?
Compensation is a broad and diverse subject matter. In the limited time allotted for course study, I focus students’ attention on the most pressing matters and issues, which typically consist of legal and compliance best practices.
What do you enjoy most about teaching?
I love sharing my passion for compensation and to feel like my work has a purpose (outside of just making money).
What did you want to be when you grew up?
My mother was a teacher and my father a Sunday school teacher, so you might say I wanted to follow in their footsteps.
What would students be surprised to learn about you?
My philosophy that the best way to learn is to have fun while helping others (teach).
Anything you’d like to add?
For students seeking to gain knowledge in the area of human resources, focus on a particular area (such as compensation) and work toward becoming the subject-matter expert. By doing so, you will truly develop yourself as a valued asset to any organization.
