Here’s a quick glimpse at one of many impressive outcomes HPU graduates achieve.
Name: Nathan Alleman, Class of 2025
Hometown: New Albany, Ohio
Major: Marketing; double minor in Sales and Finance
Post-graduation plans: Nathan is heading to Continental Tires to begin his career as a hybrid Field Sales Trainee. The Field Sales Trainee position at Continental is an entry-level role designed to prepare individuals for a long-term career in sales. It begins with a six-month training program that provides in-depth knowledge of the tire industry, Continental’s sales strategy and customer relationships. The program will expose Nathan to virtual learning, cross-functional exposure and hands-on field experience with current sales managers.
How HPU helped you get there: “High Point University played a significant role in preparing me for a career in sales. Professors Larry Quinn, Director, Professional Selling Program and Chair of the Department of Sales and Mark Michael, Professor of the Practice of Marketing and Sales, were especially influential. Both offered hands-on learning through simulations, engaging class discussions and real-world stories that brought the sales process to life. Their mentorship and professional connections helped me explore career opportunities and build a strong network.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU: “Professor Mark Michael — Professor of the Practice of Marketing and Sales– was the most impactful mentor during my time at HPU. His passion for sales and ability to teach through real-life experiences inspired me to pursue a career in the field. I often reached out to him for guidance on sales concepts and the job search process and he consistently offered thoughtful, actionable advice. His support and mentorship played a key role in my professional development.”
Most impactful moment at HPU: “The most impactful moment of my time at HPU was joining the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. The organization provided me with countless opportunities for personal and professional growth. It taught me valuable leadership lessons, taking initiative, working with a large team and stepping outside of my comfort zone to take risks and learn new skills, all of which have dramatically shaped who I am today.”
How you used Career & Professional Development: “I utilized the Office of Career & Professional Development by attending career fairs, where I was able to connect directly with potential employers and explore various career paths. The team also helped me tailor my resume, become more active on Handshake and taught me how to efficiently navigate the job search process. Their guidance was instrumental in helping me be organized during my post-graduation job search.”
How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success? “HPU’s inspiring environment constantly motivated me to strive for excellence, both personally and professionally. As one of my peers, Owen, would say, “win the day.” Being surrounded by a campus designed to foster ambition and success created a mindset where each day felt like an opportunity to grow, improve and take meaningful steps toward my goals.”
What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success? “HPU created an environment where opportunities were abundant, but it was up to me to take initiative. Through involvement in Greek life, working with the Phillips School of Business, HPU Dining, the Office of Residence Life and my own freelance projects, I was able to apply what I learned in class to real-life situations in a supportive environment.”
What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation? “HPU instilled in me the importance of supporting and uplifting those around me. Whether in the classroom, group projects, or campus organizations, I learned the value of collaboration, mentorship and leading by example. The culture at HPU encouraged me to not only strive for personal success but to actively contribute to the growth and improvement of my peers, a mindset I will carry with me into both my professional and personal life.”
Advice for underclassmen: “My advice to underclassmen is to actively seek out experiences and opportunities while you’re still in school. You have the tools and resources at your disposal, now it’s up to you to take initiative and make things happen. Be proactive, take risks and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Your success after graduation depends largely on the actions you take today.”
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