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: Jordan McClung
Hometown: Crofton, Maryland
Major: Physics and exercise science biomechanics with a minor in mathematics
Post-graduation plans: McClung will be attending the University of Colorado, Denver to pursue a master of science in bioengineering.
How HPU helped you get there: “The intellectual challenges on campus and the physical challenges from being an HPU track and field athlete helped me grow as a student and an individual. In the classroom, my professors and advisors guided me to become a versatile scientist by tailoring my studies to bridge two subjects that seemed exclusive. The incredible resources and laboratories, in tandem with encouraging professors, motivated me to work hard. I found a subject that I am passionate about, and I’m pursuing a graduate degree because of my academic experience. In athletics, my coaches taught me to be the best human I could be on and off the track. When I struggled with the physical demands of the sport, I was always pushed to find the strength within me to complete the challenge. Through my experiences at High Point University, I achieved more than I thought I could have, before I even set foot on campus.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU: “To single out one mentor would be unfair. My most impactful academic mentors were Dr. Brad Barlow, Dr. Kevin Ford, and Dr. Aaron Titus. All three of these professors motivated me to work hard and study something I am passionate about. Because of my experience learning from them and researching with them, I am now pursuing a graduate degree. Another impactful mentor at HPU is Scott Houston, Assistant Track and Field Coach. Coach Houston pushed me to be an incredible student-athlete that be competitive and perform and achieve at high levels. All four of these mentors helped shape my experience at HPU and guided me to achieve more than I thought I could have.”
Most impactful moment at HPU: “My most impactful moment at HPU was when I was invited to do summer research in the Human Biomechanics and Physiology Laboratory as a Summer Research Fellow (SuRF). During this summer, I had a unique experience learning lab techniques and assisting in data collection for large studies. My mentor, Dr. Kevin Ford helped me identify skills that I could improve for graduate school. After this experience, I added a second major to my degree: Exercise Science, Concentration: Biomechanics.”
Advice for underclassmen: “My graduation experience was unique. However, it is so important to remain optimistic and motivated to work hard. People will appreciate the genuine hard work you put in even in extraordinary times, such as this global pandemic. After graduation, be grateful and understanding of the things that happen because all things to follow are a part of one big adventure.”