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 2018:
Name: Claudia Holland
Hometown: Salemburg, NC
Major: Holland graduated with a B.S.B.A. in Accounting and a minor in Finance.
Post-graduation plans: As an Assurance Associate at PricewaterhouseCoopers in Charlotte, North Carolina, Holland uses her knowledge from HPU, her previous internship at PrincewaterhouseCoopers and CPA studies to resolve complex issues for clients and identify opportunities. Holland helps determine and examine if companies are reporting accurate information on which investors and others can rely.
How HPU helped you get there: “HPU prepared me for my internship, which ultimately lead to me accepting a full-time offer with the firm. My professors prepared me for the demanding schedule and skills that would be expected of me. HPU has also prepared me to become a Certified Public Accountant, which helped propel my career forward. I have already taken my first section of the CPA Exam and hope to have all four sections completed before the fall. My time at HPU prepared me for the expectations of the professional world from interview skills to the technical skills of accounting. Also, Career and Professional Development is one of the greatest strengths of HPU. With the help of the Accounting Department and Career and Professional Development, I was able to land multiple internships throughout my college career to gain experience. They were always more than willing to help me strengthen my resume and cover letter. Every single advisor within Career and Professional Development was there every step of the way with the countless internship applications I submitted. I will remember their guidance and valuable advice for years to come.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU: “My most impactful mentors at HPU were people I met through Career and Professional Development and George Noxon from the Accounting Department. They guided me throughout my time at HPU. Professor Noxon is the department head of accounting and finance who I had the privilege of having as a professor. Professor Noxon also has prior experience at PrincewaterhouseCoopers and guided me through the process of applying to internships. He taught me valuable accounting skills and to believe in myself.”
Most impactful moment at HPU: “My experiences at HPU shaped me into the person I am today. In particular, I think back to my experience at the Meet the Firms event for accounting majors my sophomore year as being the most impactful. As a sophomore, attending this event helped solidify accounting as the right major for me. I was able to gain insight into what an accounting career entails and make long-lasting connections that led to interviews and internships.”
Advice for underclassmen: “Use your time at HPU to your full advantage. Make use of the relationships you have at HPU such as your professors and Career and Professional Development. The network you have here will propel your career forward by teaching you valuable lessons and helping you make connections later in life. My biggest advice is to get involved in HPU through clubs, organizations and internships. This is where you will grow as both an individual and professional. You will gain experience and learn what your true desires are.”