Here’s a quick glimpse at one of many impressive outcomes HPU graduates achieve.
View More Graduate ProfilesName: Grant Hines, Class of 2024
Hometown: Owings Mills, Maryland
Major: M.A. in Communication and Business Leadership from HPU in 2024, after earning his HPU B.A. in Communication – Journalism in 2023
Post-graduation plans: Hines will be joining NBC News as a desk assistant in Washington, D.C., where he will perform administrative, operational and editorial tasks for the NBC News Washington Bureau and MSNBC cable channel news. He will also assist correspondents and anchors and produce news stories.
How HPU helped you get there:
“HPU provided me with resources, experiences and skills I needed to obtain this position. I was able to gain experiential learning through HPU’s state-of-the-art TV studio, where I helped produced several weekly shows and long-form specials. I began using the Office of Career and Professional Development during my first few weeks as a freshman, and I went on the HPU in the City trip in New York City shortly after. The relationships that I built in the career office and on that trip are the reason why I am able to craft a stellar resume and cover letter and have the skills needed to ace an interview.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU:
“My most impactful mentor is Joe Michaels, professor of the practice of media production and HPU’s Broadcaster in Residence. Joe is an NBC alumnus and former Director of the TODAY Show. He has helped many students achieve their goals and work for NBC. He has given me endless advice and told countless stories that stimulated my interest in media and news and helped me build the skills I needed to succeed.”
Most impactful moment at HPU:
“My most impactful moment at HPU was producing and co-anchoring the election night special that our on-campus broadcast club, HPU Vision, aired. It was surreal to see all our hard work come together to produce such an amazing outcome. Thanks to my creative colleagues, professors and staff members, we were able to pull it off smoothly. I also had the chance to produce many other specials during my time at HPU. Being surrounded by amazing people is what makes these memories stick.”
How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success?
“Just being on HPU’s campus inspires me to do great things. If I were to sit on campus all day and not interact with anyone, I would still be inspired. From the buildings, to the programs, to the extraordinary people I meet every day, there isn’t a spot on campus that doesn’t motivate me. I probably would not have been as successful as I am today without HPU.”
What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success?
“In my experience managing clubs and being a leader on campus, I strengthened my interpersonal skills, especially when it comes to conflict resolution. Also, spearheading several initiatives and clubs on campus taught me how to be an innovator. Along the way, I learned other skills like how to conduct myself in a professional dining setting and to always send thank-you notes.”
What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation?
“HPU places a lot of emphasis on servicing the community that you live in. During my year as a graduate student at HPU, I was an AmeriCorps VISTA through the Center for Community Engagement. I participated in many different community service projects during this time. I also learned the importance of thinking about long-term plans when it comes to my career and personal life. Most importantly, HPU taught me the value of gratitude.”
Advice for underclassmen:
“Success starts during your time as an undergraduate student. Network, get involved early and don’t be afraid to try something new. Develop relationships with professors and fellow students. You never know what opportunities might arise from these relationships. Lastly, don’t take life too seriously or try to rush the process. Everything will happen when it’s supposed to. It may sound cliché, but it’s true.”
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