HPU graduates are leading 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 2022:
Name: Heather Simmons
Hometown: Marshfield, Massachusetts
Major: Master of Education with a concentration in literacy
Post-graduation plans: Simmons will be moving to Casablanca, Morocco, to take on the role of lead teacher at the Casablanca American School. She will be teaching core subjects, including English, to elementary-aged students.
How HPU helped you get there: “HPU not only prepared me for this job through undergraduate and graduate course work, but also through practical applications of knowledge. The amount of experience I had student teaching made me more qualified than other applicants in my field. The Office of Career and Professional Development helped me develop a resume that stood out to the international schools I applied for.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU: “My most impactful mentor at HPU was Dr. Leslie Cavendish. She pushed me as an educator to be confident in my skills and to seek out international positions, as she did when she started her career.”
Most impactful moment at HPU: “My most impactful moment at HPU was the end of my student teaching experience. Though teaching first grade during a pandemic is no easy task, I felt prepared to begin my career in the field I was so excited for.”
How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success? “HPU’s inspiring environment gave me space to feel grateful for the opportunities I’ve had. Being on campus makes you feel like you’re part of something bigger. This feeling pushes you to make that feeling part of your life.”
What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success? “HPU helped me develop skills in self-advocacy which I used to push for interview opportunities. I’ve also developed confidence that helped me to seek out an international job.”
What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation? “HPU taught me to value the differences in people and to think about how those differences can be used to create a more inclusive world. I will use this skill to make my classroom a place where all students feel supported and have a sense of belonging.”
Advice for underclassmen: “Seek out jobs that make you excited to go to work! Many people believe they can’t have those types of jobs as soon as they enter the workforce, but HPU helps you find a way to launch a truly fulfilling career — even when that journey takes you in an unexpected direction.”
Are you an HPU graduate with an exciting job or graduate school offer?
Share your news with us for a chance to be featured!