Here’s a quick glimpse at one of many impressive outcomes HPU graduates achieve.
Name: Mia Ciccarelli, Class of 2024
Hometown: Dracut, Massachusetts
Major: Fashion merchandising with minors in marketing and business administration
Post-graduation plans: Ciccarelli will be attending the Laboratory Institute of Merchandising College to pursue a Master of Professional Studies in fashion merchandising and retail management.
How HPU helped you get there:
“HPU provided me with many exceptional resources and outstanding faculty members who have set me up to be successful. I can confidently say that HPU has had a large part in preparing me to take on grad school and my future career. In my freshman year, I visited the Office of Career and Professional Development for the first time when I was struggling with choosing my major. After that meeting, I had a much better idea of what I wanted my future to look like. Attending HPU has also given me lifelong connections that I am very thankful for, and I know that I will achieve my goals.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU:
“My most impactful mentor at HPU is Dr. Victoria Brown, assistant professor of home furnishings and interior design. She was not only my advisor but also an outstanding professor. She helped me apply for internships and provided me with so much encouragement and support. Dr. Brown wants the best for her students and wants to see them succeed. I am lucky to have met her during my time at HPU.”
Most impactful moment at HPU:
“My most impactful moment at HPU was joining my sorority, Alpha Gamma Delta. Growing up as an only child, I knew I wanted to get involved in Greek life and be part of a sisterhood. I really enjoyed giving back to the community through my sorority. Whether it was food drives, raising money or delivering donuts to firefighters, there was always a way to give back to others. What I enjoyed most was being able to do this with my best friends in my sorority. I am forever thankful for Alpha Gamma Delta and the large impact that it has had on my life.”
How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success?
“Being from Massachusetts, the North Carolina weather was a big difference for me. Waking up every day and seeing the beautiful architecture, fountains and pools made me feel like I was on a never-ending vacation. HPU’s campus is filled with inspiring quotes and statues of some of the most memorable people in history. Being in an inspiring environment gave me motivation every day to get up, be productive and be successful. I wanted to take advantage of my surroundings every day before my four years was up because time really does fly.”
What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success?
“HPU has helped me develop life skills such as critical thinking, adaptability, effective communication and teamwork. They will help me navigate the fast-paced fashion industry and work well with others. Being organized and having good time management skills will make me an exceptional future fashion buyer.”
What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation?
“Throughout the last four years, HPU’s campus helped me to develop values and virtues that I will carry with me after graduation. Because of HPU, I have not only prioritized the meaning of God, family and country, but I now hold a deeper appreciation for generosity, personal initiative, gratitude, civility and respect.”
Advice for underclassmen:
“Take advantage of all that HPU provides to students. There are no other schools where you can meet the CEO of Netflix, enjoy weekly food trucks, eat at multiple fine-dining restaurants on campus and have a president like Dr. Qubein who is seen interacting with students every day. Getting involved is very important because joining different organizations will help you make connections. By the time you graduate, you will be sad to leave, but you will be prepared because HPU has taught you all the necessary qualities you need to be successful.”
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