Here’s a quick glimpse at one of many impressive outcomes HPU graduates achieve.
Name: Christina Falcone, Class of 2024
Hometown: Cedar Point, North Carolina
Major: Media production and entrepreneurship with a minor in psychology
Post-graduation plans: Christina is working as a video editor for Law & Crime Network. She will create news packages, edit podcasts and sift through police camera footage. The network has close to 6 million subscribers on Youtube, which is where the majority of her work will be showcased.
How HPU helped you get there: “HPU taught me the importance of building personal and professional connections with people. If it wasn’t for my professor, Joe Michaels, HPU’s broadcaster in residence, I’m not sure this role would have been possible for me. Professor Michaels, as well as several other HPU staff, have always pushed me to achieve my goals that I thought were out of my reach. I learned to showcase my creativity, passion and dedication through my work.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU: “Joe Michaels, professor of the practice of media production, was my most impactful mentor because he pushed me to strive for greatness. He believed in me when I didn’t always believe in myself. Professor Michaels is always quick to help in a crisis or to answer a question no matter the time of day. He always offers his support to any student in need and truly wants the best for his students. He saw potential in me and made me see the potential within myself. Professor Michaels helps students achieve their dreams and goals that they think are impossible to accomplish. Professor Michaels has so much experience and wisdom, yet he is always humble.”
Most impactful moment at HPU: “The most impactful moment at HPU was when I won the Nido R. Qubein School of Communication’s Excellence in Media Production award. This award meant a lot to me because I dedicated so much time and energy to making my capstone project something I was proud of and passionate about. For my capstone, I created a documentary with the Guilford County Juvenile Detention Center, where I built close relationships with the staff and met several inmates. After hearing their stories, I knew I wanted to work in a field involving criminal justice. I even got to travel to Davidson Correctional, where I interviewed a man charged with 2nd-degree murder. This experience, although very intimidating, was life-changing. If it wasn’t for the encouragement of Professor Michaels and my other communications professors, I’m not sure it could’ve been done.”
How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success? “HPU never made me feel as though my goals were unattainable. I was always pushed to think highly of myself and that nothing is impossible if you truly set your mind to it.”
What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success? “Persistence and perseverance have been major life skills that I have learned at HPU that helped me get to where I am today. I have been applying for Law & Crime Network jobs and making connections on LinkedIn with employees for an entire year before landing my current job. I admit it was hard not to get discouraged, however, I never gave up. In fact, the recruiter for this position says my persistence paid off.”
What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation? “I learned that how you present yourself, especially to strangers, has a huge impact. It’s always important to carry yourself with confidence and intellect. It will always prevail while speaking with others.”
Advice for underclassmen: “As far as jobs and internships go, make connections on LinkedIn with people in careers you think you might want to pursue. I got all of my jobs and internships through connections I made with other people. This shows that it truly goes a long way.”
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