With another successful commencement behind us, recent High Point University graduates 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: Briayna Cuffie
Hometown: Annapolis, Maryland
Major: Cuffie graduated with a B.A. in International Relations, with a minor in Anthropology, on May 9.
Post-graduation plans: Cuffie will attend graduate school at Northeastern University to pursue a Master of Arts in Homeland Security with a concentration in Emergency Management and Geospatial Information Technologies. Cuffie will also conduct research for the Hudson Institute’s Center for Political-Military Analysis, as well as pursue a Constituent Services internship with Congresswoman Donna Edwards’ office this summer.
How HPU helped you get there: “This year, I’ve had the chance to work side-by-side with the staff in Career Services while serving as a Career Peer Advisor. I’ve learned a lot from them, and about what they do. Prior to, I received assistance from Kellie on creating a cover letter; I now use it as a template for crafting others for myself, and helping peers. They also worked with me to receive 10 credits for the three internships I did during my last two academic years.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU: “Desiree Dupree (’13) was my assigned Peer Mentor for my freshman year. Not only was she immensely committed to her academics, she was involved in groups on campus and was a big proponent of serving in the High Point community. With great time management, she was able to be a part of everything she wanted. Living the same lifestyle while here at HPU was a goal of mine, so we were able to relate on many different levels. To this day, I still go to her for advice, guidance and reassurance.”
Most impactful moment at HPU: “Being honored as an Extraordinary Leader validated that I succeeded in doing what I came to HPU to do: make a difference. I had always been told by peers, faculty and even Dr. Qubein, that I was doing great things and leaving a legacy – that award is proof. When the university-wide email was sent, my inbox was flooded by professors from my freshman and sophomore years, staff I have had the chance to establish relationships with, and even some that I had never met in person. I had far exceeded my goal of being ‘HPU famous.’”
Advice for underclassmen: “Two things. One: Always, always, pay attention to what is happening on campus and in the community. Exploration starts with your own backyard. And two: Don’t be afraid to ask to do something, or to ask for what you want. Sometimes the best opportunities just need to be created!”