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 2016:
Name: Erin Sullivan
Hometown: Guilderland, New York
Major: Sullivan will graduate with a B.A. in Elementary Education on May 7.
Post-graduation plans: Sullivan will pursue her master’s degree in Elementary Education, with a concentration in Literacy, through HPU’s B.A. to M.Ed. program.
How HPU helped you get there: “High Point University has helped me prepare for my future in countless ways. Their holistic approach to education has taught me that learning doesn’t only happen in the classroom. My most memorable learning experiences have taken place in local elementary schools. Starting freshman year, I was placed in an elementary school where I was provided the opportunity to apply skills learned in the High Point University classroom. High expectations from my professors have inspired me to put my whole heart into everything that I do, both in and outside of the classroom. High Point University has taught me that I should never settle to be ordinary. Each of us has something special to contribute to the world and it is our job to discover what that is. Not only have I learned to pursue my dreams, I have also been provided with the foundation necessary to make my dreams a reality.“
Most impactful mentor at HPU: “My most impactful mentor at High Point University is Dr. James Davis. As a professor, he continually goes above and beyond for his students by promptly answering emails at all hours of the day, meeting with students to help them on their assignments and providing beneficial feedback. Dr. Davis puts his whole heart and soul into his teaching. I have learned from him what it truly means to be a teacher that connects with others. The quote by Theodore Roosevelt, ‘Nobody cares how much you know, until they know how much you care,’ defines the basis of Dr. Davis’ teaching style.“
Most impactful moment at HPU: “The most impactful moment I have had at High Point University was during freshman year when I was elected President of the Big Brothers Big Sisters Club. Serving as President for three years, I learned what it takes to be a successful leader and that through hard work it is possible to make a difference in the lives of others. The freedom I had as President allowed me to work with my fellow executive council members to host amazing on campus events for the children in our program. Events included a Thanksgiving dinner, an Easter Egg hunt, movie night and a holiday party where the children were able to have pictures taken with Santa. The children’s genuine excitement inspired me to continue working hard to make every event a memorable experience that they would never forget.”
Advice for underclassmen: “Get involved in campus activities! High Point University offers multiple opportunities to take part in something that interests you. I have been involved in Greek Life, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Student Alumni Council and the University Ambassador program. Getting involved in activities is a great way to meet many amazing people on campus. Taking advantage of all that High Point University has to offer, will allow you to graduate knowing that you spent your time making a difference and inspiring others to do the same.”