Here’s a quick glimpse at one of many impressive outcomes HPU graduates achieve.
Name: Jenni Bilhuber, Class of 2024
Hometown: Greenwich, Connecticut
Major: Fashion Merchandising
Post-graduation plans: Jenni is starting her career as an Assistant Manager at Abercrombie & Fitch in Greenwich, Connecticut. Jenni will support store operations by mentoring team members, driving sales and creating a vibrant, memorable shopping atmosphere. In this leadership role, she will be gaining hands-on experience in full-scale assistant management while growing within a globally recognized fashion brand known for its dynamic culture and modern, elevated aesthetic.
How HPU helped you get there: “High Point University has played a key role in preparing me for the future and helping me reach my goals by providing a strong academic foundation and valuable real-world experiences. Earning a Bachelor of Science in Fashion Merchandising and a Master’s degree in Communication and Business Leadership has equipped me with the knowledge and practical skills needed to thrive in a competitive industry. My involvement in Phi Mu the Gamma Zeta chapter and various campus organizations helped me build confidence, form meaningful connections and grow into a professional ready to embrace new opportunities. These experiences have empowered me to begin my career with Abercrombie & Fitch, and I’m excited for the journey ahead and all that’s possible thanks to my time at HPU.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU: “It’s hard to choose just one, which is why I have to recognize both Lisa Williams, Assistant Professor of Interior Design and Jim Scott, Assistant Professor of the Practice of Sports Media, as my most impactful mentors at HPU. Each of them brought a unique presence to the classroom—always kind, genuinely invested in their students’ success and passionate about their work. Their willingness to support, understand, and uplift students during both academic and personal challenges made a lasting impression on me. I’m incredibly thankful for their encouragement, their dedication to teaching and the positive energy they brought to campus every day.”
How you used the Office of Career & Professional Development: “I scheduled and attended multiple sessions with Career & Professional Development, working closely with advisors like David Smith, Career Advisor and Marvina Hamilton, Assistant Director of Corporate Relations, who had a significant impact on my motivation and success throughout my job search. Each session provided valuable insights that helped me strengthen my personal brand, refine my resume, and feel more confident navigating the application process. Their guidance was instrumental in helping me identify and pursue meaningful career opportunities with clarity and purpose.”
Most impactful moment at HPU: “The most impactful moments of my HPU journey was the day I first walked onto campus and the day I walked across the graduation stage. I still remember the mix of anxiousness and excitement I felt when I first arrived, not knowing what to expect, but hopeful about what was ahead. Although I faced challenges along the way, I never gave up on HPU and I’m forever thankful for that decision. The opportunities I embraced, the memories I created and the friendships I built are truly irreplaceable. Every moment at HPU shaped me in some way—helping me grow, believe in myself and leave with a clear sense of who I am and where I’m headed.”
How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success? “HPU’s inspiring environment played a major role in both my personal and professional growth. Once I immersed myself in the campus culture, joining my sorority, on-campus activities, and engaging with the community, I began to feel truly at home. Surrounded by motivated students, supportive faculty, and a positive, forward-thinking atmosphere, I developed not only meaningful friendships but also a stronger sense of self. That sense of independence and confidence grew naturally, shaping me into someone who feels prepared to thrive beyond college. HPU didn’t just help me succeed in the moment—it helped me envision and prepare for a successful future.”
What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success? “High Point University helped me develop essential life skills that have prepared me for long-term success both personally and professionally. Through a combination of academic rigor, experiential learning, and a supportive campus community, I gained confidence in my abilities, sharpened my critical thinking, and learned to approach challenges with creativity and resilience. HPU also encouraged a deep sense of compassion and collaboration, teaching me the importance of strength, effective communication and leading with purpose—skills that continue to guide me as I grow in my career and beyond.”
What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation? “HPU’s campus environment inevitably instilled in me a strong set of values and beliefs that I will carry with me long after graduation. I learned the true value and importance of integrity in both my personal and professional interactions, while also developing a strong sense of personal responsibility and independence. Surrounded by a community that encouraged accountability, leadership and ethical decision-making, I’ve grown into someone who leads with character and strives to make a positive impact in every space I enter.”
Advice for underclassmen: “Be persistent in your goals and confident in what you bring to the table. Say yes to opportunities that challenge you, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone—those are the moments that often shape you the most. Be yourself and stay authentic—genuine relationships with professors and peers will naturally follow, and those connections can last a lifetime. Stay grounded in your own values, put in the work, and trust that the right doors will open when the time is right. Your experience at HPU is yours to shape—so show up with purpose, take initiative, and believe in the path you’re creating.”
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