Hector Barrera
Class of:
1976
Current Occupation/Field of Work:
Currently working as a Blues and Rock guitarist in LA.
Work Experience
I worked 34 years in Human Resources Management within the Aerospace/Defense industry. Retired from Northrop Grumman Corporation in January 2012.
Why did you choose Comm Studies as your major?
I learned about the major while taking a speech class from the late Bob Walthers. I liked the idea of a brand new major that offered a specialization in interpersonal communication.
Favorite UCLA memory and/or professor
Dr. Paul Rosenthal, former Chairman of the Communications Studies Department. Favorite UCLA memory: Beating both Ohio State and Michigan in the Rose Bowl!
How has Comm Studies empowered you in your professional and personal life?
I got into Human Resources because of the Comm Studies specialization in Interpersonal Communication. Interdisciplinary course work in Psychology and Sociology gave be a strong background in problem solving in the workplace.
What was the most valuable or applicable lesson you learned from a Comm Studies class?
I think the course work in Social Psychology was very valuable with respect to my approach in dealing effectively with employee relations issues in the workplace.
What advice would you give to a current Comm Studies student?
Go for the career you think is right for you. Be proud of the fact that you are part of well respected major. Use that to network within the industry of your choice.
