Taylor Apolonio is an IO MPS alum and Faculty Development Coordinator at UMD.

How did you find out about the field of I/O Psychology?

While earning my degree in interior design, I took a design psychology course that completely mesmerized me. One day, the professor casually mentioned a field I’d never heard of—industrial-organizational psychology. It sounded bizarre at first, but I was instantly intrigued. The more I learned, the more it made sense: it combined my business background, my curiosity about human behavior, and my passion for improving environments where people work. If you had told me back then that I’d go on to earn a graduate degree in psychology, I probably would’ve laughed, but I’m so glad I stayed open to discovering a career path that fits me so well.

How is I/O applied in your current role?

I approach my work with a completely different mindset now. I use theories, frameworks, and data collection tools regularly—but what’s made the biggest difference is the strategic lens I gained through the program. I’m able to apply my skills in ways that actually lead to the outcomes I was hoping for in previous roles but didn’t quite know how to reach. I currently work in the talent development and strategic communications space, and I’m eager to continue expanding into organizational development, change management, or total reward areas in the future.

What was your most memorable experience or interaction in the I/O MPS program?

Hands down, having a cohort was the most meaningful part—learning alongside others made the whole experience richer. But if I had to pick more narrow, it would be our change management course. Working with a real organization that had a pressing need, and collaboratively developing recommendations, helped me see how much I had learned and how I could apply those skills to make a real impact. I was a part of a group who collected data through structured observations, which I had never done but I found valuable. I enjoyed being able to identify immediate needs and using those insights to inform broader strategy.

What has been most surprising to you about your career path?

This might not have been surprising but how non-linear it’s been. I’ve always had a wide range of interests and curiosities, which is a gift but it can also make it tricky to figure out the “right” next step. One unexpected challenge I’ve noticed is that, because I’ve been trained to spot gaps in organizations, systems, and processes, I can’t not see them. It’s made me more thoughtful about the types of organizations I want to work in—ones that are open to growth, reflection, and meaningful change.

What is the best piece of advice or feedback you’ve ever received?

“Ask more and better questions.” Whether in work or life, curiosity opens the door to understanding what’s under the surface. It builds trust and deepens connection. A great place to start? Use “what” or “how” questions instead of “why”, it invites conversation instead of defensiveness. And of course, be mindful that not everyone may want to answer but many people are just waiting for someone to really listen.