It may be early in the semester, but Commencement will be here before we know it. Many 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 2016:
Name: Taylor Niss
Hometown: Parkland, Florida
Major: Niss will graduate with a B.A. in Elementary Education, with a minor in Special Education, on May 7.
Post-graduation plans: Niss will pursue her master’s degree in STEM for Elementary Education through HPU’s B.A. to M.Ed. program.
How HPU helped you get there: “When I first entered as a freshman, I knew I wanted to be a part of the School of Education. My advisor played an integral part in helping me be successful during my four years here. She saw my potential and is the one who encouraged me to take on a B.A. in Elementary Education, a minor in Special Education, to become certified in teaching AIG, and to finally go on to work towards my Master’s in STEM Education.
The School of Education allows students to go out and do field work in classrooms starting sophomore year. The School of Education also hosts LEGO Day field trips for schools around the area. This is just as meaningful of an experience for the students in the local schools, as it is for the HPU students. Doing these LEGO days is what made me love STEM and helped me learn how to use and integrate LEGO into the classroom by using products like NXT, EV3, WeDo, Simple Machines and Story Starters, to name a few.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU: “The professor who has made the biggest impact on me and my success is Dr. Shirley Disseler. She has opened up the world of STEM education to me, and truly taught me what it takes to be a successful teacher and person.“
Most impactful moment at HPU: “The most impactful moment at HPU was when I joined the sorority Alpha Gamma Delta. This strong sisterhood has helped shape me into being a leader, and has helped me branch out into the community by working together on philanthropic events.”
Advice for underclassmen: “Put yourself fully into everything you do. Do not just be physically present, but mentally present as well. You will get as much out of your education as you put into it, and if you give it your all, you are sure to walk across that stage with your head held high.”