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 2017:
Name: Gianna Carrabotta
Hometown: White Plains, New York
Major: Carrabotta graduated with a major in Interior Design and a minor in Marketing on May 6.
Post-graduation plans: Carrabotta will begin her career as a Design Consultant for Restoration Hardware in Westport Connecticut. She will work in collaboration with the gallery and lead designers to provide design services to clientele. Her role will require mastering the bridge between the art and science of lifestyle, environment and taste to create a functional, beautiful and personal space embodying the RH lifestyle design.
How HPU helped you get there: “I cannot thank HPU enough for preparing me to embark upon the next chapter of my life. This institution has enabled me to grow in ways unimaginable. This university has provided me with a lifetime of memories and friends that have become family, while preparing me with the tools and confidence to pursue my passion on a career path I’ve always dreamed of. The energy radiated by this campus is something that can’t be accurately depicted in words. I am honored and proud to be a graduate of HPU.
Specifically, The Career & Professional Development Department was extremely helpful in my job search. I worked closely with Elizabeth Illig, who helped to ensure my resume stood out in a competitive field while also helping me establish contacts through LinkedIn. Her support and guidance stood tall to the high standards of HPU.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU: “My most impactful mentor has been Mr. John Linn. While the Design Program possesses very experienced professors, for me, Mr. Linn stood for so much more. He was not only my professor, but a mentor, advisor, confidant and friend. His professional experience, demeanor and wide range of knowledge accompanied with his warm and welcoming presence and smile has encouraged me push through a very rigorous program even when times seemed too tough. His ability to make a group of 24 stressed out individuals laugh during some of the most critical moments of spatial planning is something to be admired and praised. He will always hold a very special place in my memories at HPU.”
Most impactful moment at HPU: “Unbeknownst to most, interior design is one of the most rigorous majors offered at HPU. To the 24 individuals I stood beside day after day in Norton Hall, each one of us had days contemplating quitting, changing majors and following an easier, less pressured path. Yet, somehow, we remained, and worked vigorously everyday to improve and surpass even our own expectations. One of the most impactful moments came after completing the Sophomore Year Comprehensive Exam, a six-hour practicum determining our future and odds of remaining under the School of Art & Design’s Interior Design Program. Passing that exam confirmed my commitment and passion to remain in this program. It also confirmed my professor’s faith in me to continue on and it was at that moment where I had the clarity and glimmer of light at the end of the extremely long tunnel ahead that it was all worth it”
Advice for underclassmen: “My greatest piece of advice for underclassmen would be to take in every moment and opportunity High Point University has to offer. This university has an ability to open doors in unbelievable places and continue to shock the nation with its increasing momentum and success. The key to being successful at HPU, and thus after graduation, is allowing yourself to change along the path life creates. Every experience has allowed me to expand my horizons and grow in immeasurable ways that I will be eternally grateful for. I’ve had to learn to let go of beliefs and ideas that I thought should happen and live in what was happening, embracing the path in front of me, even if it is one different from what I originally thought it should be. Soak up every moment and try not to blink; before you know it, it’s all over.”