With commencement just around the corner, High Point University seniors are preparing to commence prestigious career paths around the world at Fortune 500 companies, international service programs, public school systems, top-tier law, medical and graduate school programs, and many other esteemed organizations thanks to their journey at HPU. Here’s a glimpse of one extraordinary senior from the Class of 2015:
Name: Michelle Scirica
Hometown: Jupiter, Florida
Major: Scirica will graduate with a B.S. in Interior Design on May 9.
Post-graduation plans: Scirica accepted a position as a Junior Interior Designer at Rogers Design Group, a high-end residential design firm that specializes in luxury custom homes in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. In her position, Scirica will specialize in architectural plans developed with AutoCAD, work one-on-one with high-profile clients, select furnishings and finishes, and create design concepts that have recently won three prestigious awards from the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID).
How HPU helped you get there: “Because of HPU’s location and proximity to downtown High Point, I’ve been able to build my resume based on High Point Furniture Market positions (one with High Point Market Authority and most recently the showroom, Codarus) and with two internships; Barbour Spangle Design in High Point and June DeLugas Interiors in Clemmons, N.C. Receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in Interior Design was one of the most important factors in choosing which college I attended, and I am beyond grateful that HPU will be allowing me to achieve that goal on May 9.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU: “Easily the most impactful faculty member I’ve had the chance of getting to know throughout my four years would be my adviser and dean of art and design, Dr. John Turpin. Dr. Turpin first started off as my professor for History of Architecture; also known as one of the most challenging design courses. He taught me that hard work, determination and passion would ultimately help me succeed in not only that class, but with my future career. Dr. Turpin has been a part of my job hunt since the beginning and even dedicated time to help me prepare for my interviews with Rogers Design Group. It was very comforting knowing I had a faculty member who was supportive and willing to advise me and I thank him very much for doing so.””
Most impactful moment at HPU: “I can’t say specifically there was an impactful moment at HPU, but as was I sitting in Rogers Design Group’s lobby, waiting for my interview, I knew I made the right decision coming to HPU for my degree. All my education, studying, and nights spent in Norton Hall were put to the test during my interview. I will never forget the moment they offered me the position knowing that HPU was able to guide me to landing my dream job.”
Advice for underclassmen: “Do not give up. Whether it be your future career or something else related to the real world, it is so important that you do not forget why you are doing what you’re doing. There will be times you’re completely frustrated with the fact that you’re up till the late hours of the night in the library and believe me, I’ve had plenty of those nights in the design lab. But until you land that first job out after graduating college, you sometimes won’t be able to see the benefits of those late nights. It is 100% worth it. Knowing that I worked so hard to get to this point is something every college student should have the opportunity of feeling.”