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 2023:
Name: Rebeka Ogren
Hometown: Jefferson, Maryland
Major: English with a minor in popular culture and media production
Post-graduation plans: Ogren is a Pathways intern in the Office of Communications and Legislative Affairs in Washington, D.C., where she works for the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Ogren contributes to the agency’s social media platforms, writes press releases and works with high profile clients to spread awareness about equal employment opportunity.
How HPU helped you get there:
“HPU taught me to strive for greatness. The English department taught me how to use my critical thinking skills and channel my creativity in everything I do. I used the Office of Career and Professional Development to help me search for jobs and prepare for interviews. They helped me work on my resume and create a portfolio for me to use in my job applications.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU:
“My most impactful mentor at HPU was Dr. Matthew Carlson, associate professor of English. Dr. Carlson taught me to believe in myself and nourish education as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Dr. Carlson proved to me every day that you can love what you do.”
Most impactful moment at HPU:
“My most impactful moment at HPU was watching my sister walk across the stage at graduation in 2021. I admire my sister for her passion, knowledge and work ethic. Seeing her graduate was very inspiring and motivated me to do my best during my time at HPU.”
How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success?
“I was always inspired by my peers and their accomplishments. My mentors and professors pushed me to test my knowledge, and that allowed me to learn a lot about myself along the way.”
What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success?
“HPU helped me develop confidence and improve my interpersonal and communication skills.”
What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation?
“HPU’s campus environment helped me understand that the people you spend time with have an impact on you. If you surround yourself with successful and hardworking people, you are likely to become that yourself.”
Advice for underclassmen:
“Seize every opportunity! The more experience you have, the more you will know about what you want in your future job. Learning to say ‘yes’ will open up so many doors for you.”
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