Here’s a quick glimpse at one of many impressive outcomes HPU graduates achieve.
Name: Gabrielle Tita, Class of 2025
Hometown: Durham, North Carolina
Major: Marketing
Post-graduation plans: Gabrielle will begin her career as a Marketing Specialist for Cisco in Research Triangle Park, (RTP) North Carolina. Gabrielle’s role includes collaborating with marketing professionals and gaining hands-on experience in a global marketing organization. She will be working cross-functionally on diverse projects, leveraging data to refine marketing strategies, create compelling products and materials, and present insights to stakeholders.
How HPU helped you get there: “This position was an offer I received upon completing a marketing internship with Cisco. I landed the marketing internship with Cisco after meeting with Katie Davidson in the Career and Professional Development Office. She taught me how to use LinkedIn to connect with alumni who were already working for companies I would like to intern with. I applied to the Cisco internship and connected with an HPU alum already working for Cisco which made a big impact during my interview process. ”
Most impactful mentor at HPU: “Professor Raymond Johnson, Assistant Professor of Marketing and Sales and Dr. Daniel Hall, the Dean of the Phillips School of Business, have been instrumental in my journey at High Point University. Professor Johnson’s Sales in Dynamic Environments course not only helped me refine my elevator pitch and build confidence in speaking on the spot but also gave me a mentor who genuinely champions my success. Even two semesters later, he continues to check in, offering his time, guidance, and network to support my growth. Dr. Hall has been a constant advocate, always encouraging me and connecting me with new opportunities that have shaped my professional development.”
How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success? “When you’re part of a campus as inspiring as High Point University, you naturally want to do your best. I thrive in beautiful environments, and HPU offers countless stunning spaces to study and stay productive. These spaces motivate students like me, making work enjoyable and even encouraging us to complete work with friends. High Point University’s faculty and staff are incredibly supportive, and the university is dedicated to student success—not just on campus, but beyond graduation. With such an uplifting atmosphere and resources like these, a 99% outcomes rate was inevitable.”
How you used Career & Professional Development: “I was determined to secure a strong internship the summer of my junior year and decided to turn to the Career & Professional Development office for support. Katie Davidson reviewed my resume and guided me on leveraging LinkedIn to build valuable connections that could positively affect my chances of landing a role. I was able to secure a marketing internship with Cisco the summer of my junior year, which turned into a full-time role. “
What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success? “Life skills HPU has helped me develop that prepared me for long-term success are the art of hosting a conversation and networking. The Phillips School of Business has taught me how to present myself professionally, communicate effectively, and build meaningful connections. The speed networking and elevator pitch exercises I’ve participated in throughout my four years have significantly improved my confidence in interviews and when engaging with professionals who may influence my future career. ”
What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation? “High Point University has instilled in me values of professionalism, resilience, and advocacy. From eating at HPU’s fine dining restaurants every week to participating in mock interviews, HPU has taught me to always show up at my best, promptly, and ready to be extraordinary. Through coursework, leadership positions I’ve held and on-campus jobs, I have learned to rise to all challenges presented and always advocate for myself. Advocate for opportunities and advocate for positions. Imposter syndrome is only what I allow it to be. “
Advice for underclassmen: “Get involved. As often as it’s said, you truly never know what opportunities or life-changing connections you’ll come across by stepping outside your comfort zone. The friend you meet in a club could be the one who helps you land a career-changing job. Beyond networking, involvement helps you develop valuable skills that shape your future. Secondly, take full advantage of every resource HPU offers—from free food trucks and fine dining to study abroad programs and the Career & Professional Development office. In four years, you should look back knowing you maximized every opportunity to its fullest potential.”
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