Here’s a quick glimpse at one of many impressive outcomes HPU graduates achieve.
Name: Ja’Niyah Williams, Class of 2025
Hometown: Goldsboro, North Carolina
Major: Exercise Science, minor in Sports Management
Post-graduation plans: Ja’Niyah will continue her education by pursuing a Master’s in Kinesiology- Sport and Exercise Psychology at East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina.
How HPU helped you get there: “HPU helped me gain the confidence to be the person I am today. This was done by experiential learning opportunities, research programs, and more!”
Most impactful mentor at HPU: “There are so many individuals I can note as impactful mentors, but one worth noting is Dr.Brett Pexa, Assistant Professor of Athletic Training. I received an email a few weeks into class freshman year about Dr.Pexa looking for research students, and on a whim I responded. From that point on, Dr.Pexa has been there every step of my research journey, opening my eyes to my future career. He was a great asset from beginning research freshman year to applying to graduate school senior year, and everything in between. Thank you Dr.Pexa for believing in me before I believe in myself.”
How you used the Career and Professional Development: “I used the Career and Professional Development office for many things including setting up my LinkedIn account, landing my first internship through the Internship Guarantee Program, and tailoring my resume.”
What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success? “HPU helped me develop confidence in myself to pursue different professional opportunities, such as Undergraduate Research.”
Advice for underclassmen: “Say yes to any opportunity that you can mentally handle, even if you feel physically unprepared to do it! You learn so much within those times where you are comfortable, so pursue opportunities that may feel different and scary. You’d be surprised how much you will grow!”
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