Ethan Ybanez Finds His Future In Finance

How HPU helped you get there: “HPU has been instrumental in equipping me with the necessary tools for launching my career. Not only have I gained essential knowledge through coursework, but I’ve also had the opportunity to explore new subjects and expand my horizons beyond my initial expectations. The supportive community fostered by HPU has been invaluable in preparing me for the dynamic and collaborative nature of professional environments. The mentorship and guidance provided by my professors have been pivotal in shaping my career aspirations and defining my path forward. Overall, HPU has provided me with a comprehensive skill set and a sturdy foundation to navigate the world of tomorrow.”

Most impactful mentor at HPU: “Dr. Davidshofer, associate professor of philosophy, stands out as my most impactful mentor at HPU. She introduced me to the realm of philosophy, fundamentally altering my worldview and influencing how I engage with the world around me. Her teaching style is exceptional; she possesses the remarkable ability to captivate her students during lectures, making the material resonate on a deeper level. Her lectures feel more like a story time rather than a typical lecture. Through her guidance, I’ve been exposed to captivating and thought-provoking concepts, often prompting me to re-evaluate my own beliefs and ideas.”

Most impactful moment at HPU: “My most impactful moment at HPU revolves around participating in the Presidential Scholars interviews. Each year, I had the opportunity to interview prospective students, providing me with valuable insights into the future student body of our university. Through this experience, I’ve witnessed significant personal growth, reflecting on my own journey and empathizing with the nervousness and excitement of those future students during interviews. It’s incredibly rewarding to meet these students early on and later see them thriving on campus. One particular candidate stands out in my memory; after interviewing her in the spring semester, she approached me the following fall semester to express that I played a pivotal role in her decision to choose our university. Knowing that I positively impacted someone’s college journey reaffirmed the meaningfulness of my involvement in the interview process.”

How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success? “When I walk to class, I always admire the beauty of HPU’s campus. It’s no secret that our campus is unlike most other universities, but I view it as a reminder to maintain a high standard for how I go about my daily life. I’ve always believed in the mindset that if you look and feel good, you’ll be good at what you’re doing. So, when I live in an environment like this, it’s hard not to be inspired to work harder. It’s like the surroundings are constantly nudging me to strive for excellence, and that mindset has played a tremendous role in my success here at HPU.”

What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success? “Among the various life skills I’ve honed at HPU, the most impactful one for long-term success is the ability to cultivate a strong network of individuals. The adage, “your network is your net worth,” may sound cliché, but I’ve discovered it does ring true. While possessing hard skills is valuable, the true power lies in the connections you forge and knowing how to utilize them. Building relationships with people from diverse backgrounds enhances your value in ways that technical skills alone cannot achieve.”

Advice for underclassmen: “My advice to underclassmen would be to embrace discomfort and pursue the seemingly impossible. During challenging times, when you feel like you’re barely keeping your head above water, you experience the most growth. Remain open to new experiences and dedicate time to reflect on them, as each one contributes to your personal and academic development. Always remember that your education is an investment in yourself, so make the most of every opportunity and embrace the journey.”