Madison Kiessling Designs with Confidence

How HPU helped you get there:

“HPU played a crucial role in my journey to becoming an accomplished interior designer. The one-on-one mentorship from professors was invaluable, providing guidance and insights that shaped my skills and perspective. Challenging classes not only expanded my knowledge but also increased my motivation to excel in the field. HPU taught me how to navigate stress and an overload of coursework, fostering adaptability in all aspects of my academic and professional life. A portion of my job interview process included a lunch with my potential employer. I found that HPU prepared me well for this type of setting because of their fine-dining learning labs. Additionally, the meetings I had with my professors at HPU, which were balanced with laughter, helped me feel comfortable and confident in similar professional settings.”

Most impactful mentor at HPU:

“Professor Brandon Jones, instructor of home furnishings and interior design, has been an incredibly impactful mentor during my time at HPU. His dedication to teaching the technical aspects of design platforms along with instilling a positive mindset and encouraging me to push myself, were a tremendous help. I admire how much he cares about his students’ growth and how he manages to answer all questions while keeping the class engaging Professor Jones has not only taught me about design but has also opened my eyes to new paths within the field that I never knew I would be interested in. His mentorship has been instrumental in my academic and personal growth. I consider him a great role model in design.”

Most impactful moment at HPU:

“My most impactful moment at HPU was working on the Special Blend Cafe project alongside my professor, Dr. Jane Nichols, chair and associate professor of interior design. This project was a commercial non-profit endeavor where I had the opportunity to volunteer as an assistant interior designer. I was involved in various aspects of the project, including drawing technical floor plans, on-site staging and communicating with clients. The experience was incredibly rewarding, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such a meaningful project. This experience not only enhanced my skills in interior design but also taught me the importance of community involvement.”

How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success?

“HPU’s inspiring environment extends beyond its campus beauty to include architectural marvels. Surrounded by stunning interiors crafted by nearby design firms in High Point, known as the Furniture Capital of the World, I’m constantly immersed in innovative design concepts that fuel my creativity and passion for interior design. The presence of these architectural wonders serves as a constant reminder of the endless possibilities in the field.”

What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success?

“HPU equipped me with a range of life skills that have been instrumental in preparing me for long-term success. Through HPU’s curriculum and environment, I learned effective time management, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are essential in any career path. HPU also emphasized the importance of communication and collaboration, skills that have been valuable in my professional interactions. Additionally, HPU instilled in me a sense of adaptability and resilience, enabling me to navigate challenges and thrive in diverse environments.”

What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation?

“HPU’s community emphasized the importance of integrity, honesty and ethical behavior, instilling in me a strong moral compass. HPU also fostered a culture of kindness, compassion and respect for others, values that I will continue to uphold in my personal and professional life. Additionally, the university encouraged a mindset of continuous growth and learning, inspiring me to always seek new knowledge and opportunities for self-improvement.”

Advice for underclassmen:

“Time management is crucial for balancing coursework, internships and extracurricular activities. Confidence in your work is key, and it will help you navigate challenges and impress potential employers. Be adaptable to changes in your industry, and communicate effectively with professors.”