With another successful commencement behind us, High Point University seniors have kicked-off 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: Mitch Rissmiller
Hometown: Reading, Pennsylvania
Major: Strategic communication and a minor in business administration
Post-graduation plans: Rissmiller joins NBC News as a production assistant for the “Today” show in Los Angeles, California. He is assisting in producing original news content for broadcast, including research, conducting interviews, supporting field producing, shooting, pitching story ideas and working on stories developed by the editorial team in the western United States. He works with the LA team from story conception to airing as part of the national broadcast produced-stories, like features and human interest pieces.
How HPU helped you get there: “HPU provided me with the resources that I needed to become a well-rounded young professional, an independent thinker and a worldly contributor. From the professional development skills I learned from the Office of Career and Professional Development, to the knowledge I acquired in class in the Nido R. Qubein School of Communication and the Phillips School of Business, I graduated High Point University with a broad depth of knowledge and background that made me stand out from other graduates. At HPU, you are taught that small milestones contribute to your overall success and that taught me to set achievable goals for myself to pace my personal and professional development as I begin my career. From the first days that I stepped onto campus to my final moments as an HPU student, I utilized the Office of Career and Professional Development. I learned how to craft a resume and how to present myself professionally, and over time, I learned how to continually edit my resume and cover letters to improve my presentation and speaking skills. A full-circle moment for me was working as a peer career advisor for the Office of Career and Professional Development during my senior year, where I utilized my skill set to assist other students in their professional growth process; it aided so monumentally in my professional development.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU: “I was lucky enough to have a diverse group of mentors during my time at HPU. From the School of Communication’s Professors David Radanovich, Matt Ritter, Ginny McDermott and Joe Michaels, to the Office of Career and Professional Development’s Lindsay Scott, Doug Hall, Emily Long and so many more that I crossed paths with, I was lucky enough to grow under their guidance and mentorship. My relationships with them all haven’t ended after graduation either, as we still remain in contact and they continue to mentor me today.”
Most Impactful Moment at HPU: “The most impactful moment that I had at HPU was executive producing and co-hosting “Point Blank,” a show I co-created with a group of friends during our senior year. Throughout the year, we learned the ins and outs of producing a digitally-focused entertainment talk show, and we formed incredible bonds through the experience. Not only did I utilize the skill set that I built over the past few years to collaborate with an incredible team, but I utilized “Point Blank” during my job interview process to land interviews and ultimately accept a job closely aligned with my post-grad goals.”
Advice for underclassmen: “To be successful after graduation, lay the groundwork before you leave High Point University’s campus. First of all, HAVE FUN! Your college years are some of the best in your life and even being four months out, I miss it so much. Second, get to know your professors, the team at the Office of Career and Professional Development and rely on your peers, too. The more you know about those around you, the better that you can lean on each other to grow. Third, focus on academics, but push to be the best you can be in your experiential learning. Internships, big or small, all lead to your ability to get a job after graduation. HPU truly gives you all of the resources you need to succeed, so if you want to make success happen for yourself, go for it!”