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: Sophia Mahachek
Hometown: Novato, California
Major: International relations and political science with minors in French and economics
Post-graduation plans: Mahachek will be attending The American University of Paris in Paris, France, to pursue her M.A. in international affairs.
How HPU helped you get there: “HPU provided authentic mentorship that inspired me to achieve my goals. Professors in the political science and French departments showed me that I could rise to their standard. They believed in my academic potential, even when I doubted my own. They pushed me to go above and beyond, and because of their support and encouragement, I realized I was capable of far more than I thought. I used the Office of Career and Professional Development as a resource when applying to graduate school. I made appointments to review my resume and application essays, so that I felt confident in my application and gained meaningful feedback.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU: “My most impactful mentor was Dr. Mark Setzler. He always believed in me. From my freshman year, he instilled the confidence in me that I was capable of rising to a higher standard and pushed me to a potential I never thought I’d reach. When applying to graduate school, he encouraged me during every step of the process. I am very grateful for the mentorship that Professor Setzler gave me.”
Most impactful moment at HPU: “My most impactful moment at HPU was being elected President of the Kappa Delta Sorority. I felt incredibly supported and believed in, as this was my greatest accomplishment in college.”
What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success? “The most important life skill I’ve gained from HPU is learning that if I dedicate myself to a goal, I can do anything. HPU provided an inspiring environment that allowed me to see success in everyday life and push myself to become a professional I can take pride in.”
What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation? “Upon graduation, I will carry the values HPU instilled in me. HPU showed me the values of loyalty and authenticity through service leadership. HPU’s value of generosity inspired me to stay loyal to promoting good throughout the campus community — and doing so with authenticity. I am grateful that HPU allowed me to grow and develop a new perspective of what it means to take pride in helping others.”
Advice for underclassmen: “Push yourself further than you think you can go. Accept challenges, and remember it’s not supposed to be easy. As long as you try your best, you will grow!”
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