With another successful Commencement behind us, High Point University graduates are commencing 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 2020:
Name: Sarah Nowell
Hometown: Knoxville, Tennessee
Major: Physics and graphic design with a minor in mathematics
Post-graduation plans: Nowell will be attending the University of Pennsylvania for an Integrated Product Design program.
How HPU helped you get there: “I wouldn’t be where I am without incredible mentors. The faculty at HPU is consistently helpful, kind and encouraging. They were the ones who helped me attend conferences, do research and figure out what I wanted to do after graduation. Without their constant support, I am not sure I would be where I am today.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU: “Dr. Aaron Titus was the most impactful mentor for me. I was able to do research with him starting sophomore year, and he helped me realize that a physics major is something that has so many transferable skills that I could pursue a path that wasn’t “traditionally” physics. He was constantly encouraging me and other students to make a career out of what excites us, not what your family or others may expect of you, because ultimately your career is something you have to live with. This advice seems really obvious but easily forgotten. Luckily, I had Dr. Titus there to remind me of this constantly and I am very glad he did.”
Most impactful moment at HPU: “I took art and design for the web with Professor Dougherty and I realized I really loved designing websites, considering user interaction and developing a fully functional design. It was in that class that I used coding skills I had learned in physics and combined them with design. I realized that I wanted to keep designing things that are functional and useful and that’s how I decided to pursue further education in product design.”
Advice for underclassmen: “My advice would be to not waste your four years. It goes by so quickly and it is so important to make connections with everyone. These are the years you make your friends for life and when you find mentors that will help you figure out your career path, provide recommendations for you and serve as your support system.”