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: Ariel Hodges
Hometown: Concord, North Carolina
Major: Hodges graduated with a major in Psychology on May 6.
Post-graduation plans: Hodges begins her career as a client success representative at Passport, Inc. in Charlotte. In her role, she will establish relationships with clients to better create an effective plan to help them meet their company goals. When working with clients, Hodges will be the main point of contact during their life cycle with Passport, taking the time to understand their needs and create a positive experience.
How HPU helped you get there: “HPU is filled with endless opportunities that help shape you into a better individual. The wonderful faculty and staff here on campus pushed me to take advantage of these opportunities, even opportunities that I would have never thought I would love. For example, I never knew that becoming a Student Justice would be an undertaking that I’d have the courage to take, but those who believed in me did not let me pass up such a great opportunity. In this role I have learned exceptional skills such as effective communication, emotional intelligence and being insightful enough to make great judgement with any situation. I did so well in this role that I was able to move up to a higher position known as Hearing Chair. I was also faithful to the Career & Professional Development Center since I was a freshman on campus. They have helped me in every way possible from creating a resume, to preparing me for interviews and helping me gain opportunities on campus. They also helped me obtain an internship at the global company Volvo, etc. The list is endless. Mr. Doug Hall has been essential in helping me through this process. He was one of the first individuals I wanted to inform that I was offered my current position. Thanks to my time at HPU, I know that anything is possible and I have the skill set to make it happen!”
Most impactful mentor at HPU: “My most impactful mentor on campus was Dr. Scheidt. She was one of the first professors I had my freshman year and one of the first to give me the confidence to believe in myself academically. Dr. Scheidt is one of the most intellectual professors I know, so when she saw potential in me I was honored and it gave me the foundation I needed to excel throughout my academic career. She also was the individual to help push me in the direction of Human Resources, an industry I now love.”
Most impactful moment at HPU: “My most impactful moment at HPU was when I received The University Award of Citizenship. Obtaining this honor helped solidify how much of a home HPU has truly become. This award meant more than being recognized for my accomplishments, but instead, symbolized the love I had here on campus. Everyone has struggles throughout life, and when I had mine HPU supported me more than I could have imagined. The encouragement that I received from members all over campus fueled me with the perseverance to continue through one of the hardest times of my life. I thank the HPU family because I would not have been able to finish up my senior year as strong as I have without your support.”
Advice for underclassmen: “This advice may be a little cliché, but the best thing you can do for you…is believe in yourself. Yes, truly believe that you can accomplish anything you put your mind to. Having this humble confidence will open so many doors for you and make you unstoppable. Graduating from undergrad can feel like leaving the pond and joining the sea, but there is no one who can be a better you than you. Having that belief and understanding alone will make you special with any new adventure you may be starting. Finally, never forget to appreciate those around you because nothing is accomplished alone.”