Here’s a quick glimpse into Aidan’s journey to career success!
Name: Aidan Smith, Class of 2027
Hometown: Charleston, West Virginia
Major: Marketing, minor in Sales
Post-graduation plans: Aidan has accepted a position as a Field Sales Trainee at Continental Tire in Fort Mill, South Carolina. The role is a six-month training program that prepares him for a full-time position on Continental’s field sales team. Aidan will move through every department and spend most of his time on ride-alongs with field sales representatives and managers.
How HPU helped you get there:
“HPU helped me achieve this goal by introducing me to Continental at the private sales career fair as well as providing me the skills to excel in their internship over the summer.”
What life skills did HPU help you develop?:
“HPU helped me sharpen my professional skills to really excel in a workplace environment. On top of this, my skills in sales have really improved after taking multiple sales courses over my three years.”
How did you use the Office of Career & Professional Development?:
“The Office of Career & Professional Development has helped me find potential graduate school options as well as helped with my resume freshman year.”
Did your interview process include a dining component?:
“Yes. During my interview process with Continental, I had the opportunity to attend a dinner at Sweet Old Bill’s with members of the company. This experience allowed me to interact with professionals in a more personal setting and demonstrate my communication and networking skills outside of a traditional interview environment. I felt that High Point University prepared me well for these situations. Through HPU’s emphasis on professional etiquette and relationship building, I felt comfortable engaging in meaningful conversations while maintaining professionalism. Additionally, during my summer internship, I attended multiple lunches and dinners with colleagues and company leaders. These experiences reinforced the importance of proper dining etiquette, active listening and building professional relationships. Because of the preparation and experiences I gained at HPU, I was confident and able to make a positive impression in each of these settings.”
What values and virtues will you take with you?:
“High Point University has helped me develop the values of hard work, integrity, perseverance and servant leadership. Through the supportive community and opportunities on campus, I have learned the importance of taking initiative, building meaningful relationships and always striving to be my best. These virtues will guide me after graduation as I pursue my personal and professional goals.”
Most impactful moment at HPU:
“One of the most impactful moments of my time at High Point University was meeting the group of friends I connected with during my freshman year. From the very beginning, they challenged me to set high standards for myself and continuously pushed me to achieve success both academically and personally. Being surrounded by motivated and driven individuals inspired me to work harder, take advantage of opportunities and strive to become the best version of myself.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU:
“One of the most impactful mentors I had at High Point University was Professor James Chenier, interim chair and professor of the practice of sales, along with Larry Quinn, professor of the practice of sales. Both of them challenged me to think beyond the classroom and helped me develop the skills and mindset needed to succeed professionally. They encouraged me to work hard, stay curious and always strive for excellence in everything I do. I also benefited greatly from the guidance of my Greek advisors, Tim Wilkinson, senior director of Fraternity and Sorority Life, and Timothy Robinson, director of Fraternity and Sorority Life. They were always available to offer advice, encouragement and support throughout my time at HPU. Their mentorship helped me navigate the challenges of college, build meaningful relationships and grow both personally and professionally.”
Advice for underclassmen:
“Always go the extra mile and do extra. It really only takes a little bit of time and effort to do extra. Also always be genuinely curious. Never ask a question or enter into a conversation you’re not genuinely curious about.”
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