Name: Amy Sladek
Hometown: Naperville, Illinois
Major: Sladek will graduate with a degree in Strategic Communication and a minor in Event Management on May 6.
Post-graduation plans: Sladek has accepted a position with Walt Disney World as a talent acquisition marketing professional intern. Joining the business segment of the Walt Disney Company in Orlando, Florida, Sladek will be part of the account management team that works to attract and engage the talent for Walt Disney World. She will be working on global marketing campaigns and strategies, as well as executing media plans and event material development.
How HPU helped you get there: “HPU gave me opportunities both in and outside the classroom. The communication faculty, Phil Watson, Bobby Hayes, Dean Smith, John Mims, Vern Biaett and Shannon Campbell never stopped cheering me on and helping me succeed in their office hours and in the classroom. They prepared me both as a student, but also as a young adult. They truly took an interest in my life, and the relationships I have with them mean so much to me because I know I could call them to ask for advice anytime.
There’s also Doug Hall in Career and Professional Development Services. He has been with me since my first year at HPU, starting as my freshman success coach. On day one I told him that Walt Disney World was the dream, and he has helped prepare me and get me there. He has helped me fine tune my resume, make sure I have enough experience and made sure I knew how to get myself into the right position.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU: “Dr. Vern Biaett has helped me network, prepare for interviews, and has supported me in extra-curricular activities. He truly cares about his students success and is willing to help them succeed. He helped me prepare for my Disney interview and taught me many tips on how to stand out.”
Most impactful moment at HPU: “Studying abroad in Australia. This not only allowed me to broaden my horizons culturally, but allowed me to grow as an individual immensely. I was able to see the world in a way that I had never seen it before. Studying abroad gave me a perspective on life that I would not have been able to get if I stayed in the states. ”
Advice for underclassmen: “My best advice is to not give up on your dream job. The application process for the Walt Disney World position took about six months and six interviews, competing against over 500 candidates. As a large corporation, with hundreds of people trying to get one position, it’s easy to be overlooked and then discouraged if rejected. But, don’t lose hope, network, and continuously improve on your skills and experiences. I applied to numerous jobs within the company, never losing sight of my dream. Let your determination drive you, and the hiring managers will see that.”
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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. View more extraordinary seniors from the Class of 2017 here.