Here’s a quick glimpse at one of many impressive outcomes HPU graduates achieve.
Name: Caydan Brixius, Class of 2025
Hometown: Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
Major: Criminal Justice; double minor in Legal Studies and Business Administration
Post-graduation plans: Caydan will be pursuing her PhD in Sociology at North Carolina State University in Raleigh, North Carolina.
How HPU helped you get there: “HPU has helped me grow in so many ways since my freshman year. When I first started at HPU, I was a shy student who was unsure about what I wanted to do in the future. I knew I was interested in criminal justice, but I wasn’t sure which path within the field I wanted to pursue. During my sophomore year, I took a research methods class that completely changed my perspective. That class introduced me to the idea that I could make a meaningful impact on the criminal justice system through research and problem-solving. My interests shifted from working in the justice system to working with the system to support meaningful reform. The professors at HPU played a crucial role in preparing me for life after graduation. They helped me build strong research and writing skills, but more importantly, they believed in me. Their encouragement and the opportunities they provided were instrumental in shaping my confidence and preparing me for graduate school.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU: “The most impactful mentor during my time at HPU is Alec Szalewski, Interim Chair and Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice. From my first class with him as a freshman to working with him during my final semester on my first research publication, he has been a constant source of guidance and motivation. Over the past three semesters, I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with Dr. Szalewski on various research projects, prepare graduate school applications and discuss my long-term goals. He has provided me with countless opportunities to grow both personally and professionally. One of the most memorable experiences was presenting our paper, Outcomes of Children with Incarcerated Parents, at the annual ACJS conference in Denver, Colorado. That was the first time a research project from the criminal justice department had ever been presented at an international conference. I truly would not have found my place within the criminal justice department or discovered my passion for research without his support and guidance.”
How you used Career & Professional Development: “I have used the Office of Career & Professional Development for assistance with resume formatting and cover letter writing.”
What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success? “High Point University has helped me develop the confidence and networking skills that will support my long-term success. HPU offers countless opportunities across campus to get involved and grow both personally and professionally. During my time at HPU, I was involved in HPUREC as a group fitness instructor, Alpha Phi Omega a national service fraternity, as well as Alpha Phi Sigma and Alpha Chi national honor societies. Working as a group fitness instructor gave me the chance to strengthen my communication and leadership skills. Through Alpha Phi Omega, I was able to give back to the community and grow through service. Being a member of Alpha Phi Sigma and Alpha Chi allowed me to connect and network with individuals who shared my academic and professional interests. HPU has truly opened doors to opportunities that I never thought were possible and taught me valuable lessons that will stick with me for the rest of my life.”
Advice for underclassmen: “My advice for underclassmen on how to be successful after graduation is to take risks and say yes to opportunities that push you out of your comfort zone. Some of my most rewarding experiences at HPU were the ones I felt the most intimidated by at first. You’ll never know what you’re capable of until you challenge yourself to try something new. Stepping into the unknown can open doors to incredible opportunities and connect you with people and experiences you never imagined were possible.”
Are you an HPU graduate with an exciting job or graduate school offer?
Share your news with us for a chance to be featured!