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 at one extraordinary member of the Class of 2022:
Name: Nicholas Masalleras
Hometown: Clemmons, North Carolina
Major: Media production and entrepreneurship
Post-graduation plans: After graduating in December 2022, Masalleras joins Reynolds American Inc. in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, as a global graduate management trainee where he will work with marketing executives to contribute to the successful execution of strategic business plans and marketing programs. The Global Graduate program is a multi-rotational, one-year management program that will allow him to develop professional skills, business acumen and a deeper understanding of marketing to consumers.
How HPU helped you get there:
“High Point University taught me how to act professionally and lead others confidently. HPU also provided numerous leadership opportunities for me through clubs, events and academic fellowships. Working with the Office of Communications, I gained hands-on experience planning and executing video productions for the university. As chair of the Communication Fellows, I learned how to inspire and encourage classmates in creating amazing multimedia pieces. The Office of Career and Professional Development helped me compose my resume and structure my LinkedIn profile to provide the best possible appearance when networking with potential employers and clients.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU:
“My most impactful mentor was Elaina Huffman, senior director of special projects. When I joined her video production team in the Office of Communications my senior year, I was nervous to work with industry professionals. She helped me feel comfortable working in teams and demonstrated how to act professionally with VIPs and university guests. I was unsure when I started, but shortly after began introducing myself professionally and confidently to our innovators in residence, part of HPU’s Access to Innovators Program, making a strong professional appearance. I also gained a great understanding from her about leading media teams and the logistics needed to create a final product. Without her guidance and knowledge, I would not have the confidence to lead creative teams or introduce myself to C-suite professionals.”
Most impactful moment at HPU:
“One of my most impactful moments at HPU was working with the Office of Communications’ staff to create HPU+, High Point University’s streaming platform. I contributed to the creation of the platform and helped lead the video production teams on projects for HPU+ originals. It was eye-opening to see multiple teams coming together for months of hard work, adapting workflows and diverse ideas to create a platform, unlike anything in the higher education industry. It showed me the art of the possible — that nothing is impossible.”
How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success?
“Connections to the HPU Access to Innovators Program and diverse alumni are among the biggest factors that led to my commitment to being successful in my future career. I enjoyed connecting with industry leaders to learn about the life skills they leverage to create successful careers. To see HPU alumni who shared the same major I had at HPU really drives me to push myself to achieve success in a similar career.”
What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success?
“In addition to leadership, HPU taught me how to recover from mistakes, learn from those experiences and grow from them. These experiences also taught me how to rely on those around me. Each of us brings a unique piece of the puzzle, but an effective leader knows how to use each person’s strengths together.”
What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation?
“One of the biggest virtues High Point University helped me to continue developing is being eager to learn. I don’t ask questions to be heard in a room, but to further my knowledge on a topic. If I’m unsure of an answer or path to follow, I reach out to others and ask for help. This shows not only that I’m engaged and interested in a topic but that I want to enhance my skills and knowledge and learn from others.”
Advice for underclassmen:
“Put yourself out there! If you see an upperclassman doing something you want to do or a team you want to be a part of, just go talk to them. After all, they are one of your peers! I always loved being able to connect freshman and sophomore media production majors on campus with our video production team and allow them to work with industry professionals right away. Just because you aren’t as technically skilled as upperclassmen, that doesn’t mean you don’t have anything to offer. Everyone brings a unique viewpoint to the team!”
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