Although commencement is just around the corner, High Point University graduates are already 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 2019:
Name: Amy Greaves
Hometown: Lusby, Maryland
Major: Mathematics with a minor in computer science
Post-graduation plans: Following graduation Greaves will be joining the United States Air Force.
How HPU helped you get there: “HPU helped me stay focused on my goals and improve myself continually. At High Point University, you are always encouraged to push yourself and explore your capabilities. This university understands so well the value of being an excellent leader and the importance of being a leader of good character. As an officer in the military, you have to uphold a higher standard of excellence, discipline, character and service. You hold other people’s lives in your hands. HPU helped me open up and grow as a leader and as a citizen of character.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU: “Dr. Karen O’Hara was by far my most impactful mentor. I have had a unique situation compared to many other students at HPU since my path after college involves the military. Instead of treading lightly through conversation with me, she took the time to understand, translate the lingo for my path and for the requirements to best achieve my dreams. That alone meant so much to me because I know picking up on a dynamic like this is not easy, but she earnestly worked with me so she could help the best she could. Anytime I approached her, no matter the setting, she always made me feel like a priority. Though she mentors many students, I never had to dig too deep with her to remind her of a specific situation or story. She was impactful because she reached out to me equally as much as I reached out to her.”
Most impactful moment at HPU: “My most impactful moment was when I met my best friend, Natalie Grich. I sat next to her on the third day of class after never saying a word, and I finally introduced myself to her. That was three years ago, and now she is a permanent fixture in my life. My time at HPU flew by, but all of my best memories have her in them.”
Advice for underclassmen: “My advice is to take time to regularly center yourself on your core beliefs, morals and character. You don’t want to find yourself only focusing on short-term goals and losing touch with who you really are. Stay rooted in yourself no matter how successful you are because your sense of self will always take you further. Respect runs deeper for those who respect themselves and others.”