Here’s a quick glimpse at one of many impressive outcomes HPU graduates achieve.
Name: Alexa Franklin; Class of 2024
Hometown: Mahomet, Illinois
Major: Media Production and Entrepreneurship; minor in Social Media Marketing
Post-graduation plans: Alexa is beginning her career as a digital content specialist for Casual Furniture World in Winston Salem, North Carolina. As a digital content specialist she plays a key role within the marketing team, creating compelling content across multiple platforms including social media, blogs, email campaigns and digital advertisements. In addition, she manages all aspects of content production, from pre-production and design to photography, editing and product setup, ensuring cohesive and engaging brand messaging. Alexa’s work drives brand awareness and customer engagement through creative and strategic content delivery.
How HPU helped you get there: “HPU played a pivotal role in shaping my career by fostering a growth mindset and providing hands-on experiences through real-world projects. The guidance and encouragement of my professors pushed me to explore new ideas, strengthen my skills and excel in areas like content creation, design and digital marketing. The collaborative environment at HPU not only helped me grow professionally but also gave me the confidence to take on new challenges in my role as a digital content specialist.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU: “Barry Thornburg, Assistant Professor of Media Production, was a valuable mentor who provided insightful feedback on my projects and guided me through the pre-production process to ensure the highest quality work. His advice, both in and outside of the classroom, helped me set realistic professional goals and deepened my understanding of the media production industry.”
Most impactful moment at HPU: “One of my most impactful moments at HPU was when I passed my FAA exam for a remote pilot license to fly drones. Professor Mims, Assistant Professor of the Practice of Strategic Communication, who taught the class was there to congratulate me with a big smile after I finished the exam at the airport testing facility. He expressed genuine pride in my achievement and supported me throughout the process. Taking the drone class was an optional challenge I pursued to advance my career goals, and having an encouraging professor by my side reinforced the supportive, success-driven environment at HPU.”
How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success? “HPU’s inspiring campus environment played a crucial role in my success by fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration and continuous growth. The emphasis on a growth mindset encouraged me to take risks, push my boundaries and embrace new opportunities, ultimately contributing to both my personal and professional development.”
What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success? “HPU helped me develop crucial life skills such as adaptability, creativity and effective collaboration — all of which have been essential for long-term success. The hands-on projects and the growth mindset encouraged on campus taught me to approach challenges with a solutions-oriented mindset and push my boundaries to try new things.”
What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation? “The campus environment encouraged me to embrace new challenges, think outside the box and always strive for excellence, both personally and professionally.”
Advice for underclassmen: “My advice to underclassmen is to consistently step outside your comfort zone, embrace new challenges and focus on personal growth to advance your career. Take advantage of the opportunity to learn from experienced mentors, ask insightful questions and engage with professors who genuinely want to help you succeed. These actions will help shape your skills, mindset and future success.”
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