With another Commencement quickly approaching, High Point University graduates will be 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 2021:
Name: Jessica Keys
Hometown: Herndon, Virginia
Major: Marketing with a minor in sales
Post-graduation plans: Keys will be joining Nestlé USA as a sales development program trainee. The Nestlé Sales Development Program is a 2.5 year rotational program in which trainees experience key aspects of professional sales. The program includes personal selling, managing a team, and conducting business analysis for key accounts.
How HPU helped you get there: “During my four years at HPU, I was able to grow as a well-rounded person. While on campus, I participated in the Division 1 track and field team, Honors College, PSB Selling Club, American Marketing Association, and the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. All of my experiences at HPU motivated me to improve in any way possible and always reach for my goals. Going forward in my career, these life skills will help me succeed in everything I do. The Office of Career and Professional Development helped me create my resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn account. They were there for me throughout my internship interview process and helped me approach all of my interviews with confidence. When it came time to accept a full-time job offer, I was so excited to share the exciting news with the Office of Career and Professional Development as they were some of my biggest cheerleaders and supporters. My final round in the interview process included a lunch with key members of the Nestlé team. HPU’s 1924 Prime fine dining learning lab prepared me well for this type of setting.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU: “My most impactful mentor at HPU has been Angela Munsie. Professor Munsie cares about all of her students and was always there to help me when I needed it. Her positive attitude made learning exciting and I always looked forward to her classes.”
Most impactful moment at HPU: “My favorite moment at HPU was clearing 3.70m (12’01.5′) in the women’s pole vault competition at the Big South Outdoor Conference Championships in 2019. My teammates and I swept the podium and it was the best feeling in the world.”
Advice for underclassmen: “My best advice for underclassmen is to take risks while chasing your dreams. No one ever succeeded by playing it safe. I have learned that taking calculated risks are the best way to grow personally and professionally beyond your comfort zone.”