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: Sophia Andreatos
Hometown: Clifton, Virginia
Major: Andreatos graduated with a B.A. in Graphic Design and Digital Imaging on May 9.
Post-graduation plans: Andreatos accepted a design position with Hip Hues, a mobile screen-printing company in Nashville, Tennessee. In her position, Andreatos will work with clients to create custom designs for events. Before starting her career with Hip Hues, Andreatos will complete a six-month internship with Hatchshow Print, a 136-year old letterpress print shop, to hone her skills as a print maker.
How HPU helped you get there: “The art department has been simply wonderful! All of my professors have put in so much effort to not only teach me the skills I need to be successful in my field but have also mentored me, giving me the confidence to go after my dreams and reach my goals. Also, a huge shout out to Elizabeth Walker from Career Services – I met with her once a week for a few months and she helped me get my resume, LinkedIn and cover letter ready to apply for jobs. She also taught me about in-person networking and interviews. She’s a great resource with an awesome perspective on what you need to land a job or internship that you can be proud of.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU: “Wow, I have too many. I would say before I even began my official journey at HPU, Joe Christy was one of the main reasons I got the opportunity to join the HPU family and Craig Curty made sure I survived freshmen year. Once I got into my major my mentors became Cherl Harrison, Allan Beaver, Benita van Winkle, and Janis Dougherty – all of them not only are a great team of educators but are encourages, dreamers and amazingly talented creators.”
Most impactful moment at HPU: “My most impactful moment at HPU must have been when I realized my true passion for wanting to become a print maker. I don’t think it happened in a single moment but having an amazing support system of faulty, staff and peers I was able to grow into a woman I am proud of and find my path in life.”
Advice for underclassmen: “Take time out of the classroom to get to know the faculty in your major. Take the time to not just get an education, but also have a lasting and inspiring experience. Some of the best moments I have had here at HPU has been when I was with my major peers creating and bouncing ideas off of one another at midnight trying to finish projects on time. Take the time to let people influence you and influence others. You only get four years; make them amazing!
P.S.: Always call your mom, even if you think you don’t need to talk to your mom you do. By the time you blink your eyes and grow up you realize how important your parents are to you. Never take them for granted.”