Here’s a quick glimpse at one of many impressive outcomes HPU graduates achieve.
Name: Gabrielle Sewade, Class of 2025
Hometown: North Andover, Massachusetts
Major: Journalism; double minor in Social Media Marketing and Business Administration
Post-graduation plans: Gabrielle will be pursuing her Master’s of Science in Journalism at Boston University in Boston, Massachusetts.
How HPU helped you get there: “High Point University played a major role in preparing me for where I am now and for what lies ahead. The university’s focus on experiential learning gave me real-world experiences that helped me grow both professionally and personally. Through hands-on projects, internships and strong mentorship from professors, I was able to build the confidence and skills I needed to pursue my goals. HPU’s emphasis on values like leadership, innovation and service also shaped my mindset and helped me develop a clear vision for my future. I feel well-prepared to face challenges, take initiative and continue growing because of the foundation I built at HPU.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU: “Two of the most impactful mentors I had at HPU were Dr. Nahed Eltantawy — Dean of Nido R. Qubein School of Communication– and Professor Bobby Hayes — Chair and Professor of the Practice of Journalism. Dr. Eltantawy challenged me to think critically and write with purpose in courses like Reporting and Writing, Opinion Writing, as well as Multimedia Storytelling. Her high standards and thoughtful feedback pushed me to grow as a journalist and storyteller. She believed in my potential and helped me develop the confidence to tackle complex topics with clarity and depth. Professor Bobby Hayes also had a significant influence on my growth. In his Copy Editing and Feature Writing courses, he emphasized precision, ethical responsibility and the importance of strong narrative structure. His real-world insights and encouragement made a lasting impact on how I approach both editing and long-form writing. Together, they helped shape not just my skills, but my identity as a writer and communicator. Their mentorship gave me the foundation I needed to pursue my goals with both creativity and professionalism.”
Most impactful moment at HPU: “One of the most impactful moments I had at HPU was when I interviewed the mayor of Greensboro for a story I was producing in my Video Journalism class. It was part of a larger multimedia package, and it was the first time I had the opportunity to conduct a high-profile interview as a student journalist. Preparing for that interview, researching topics, crafting thoughtful questions and handling the technical aspects of filming — challenged me to apply everything I had learned in a real-world setting. What made it so impactful was the sense of responsibility and professionalism it required. I wasn’t just completing a class assignment; I was telling a story that mattered and representing myself as a credible journalist. That experience gave me a huge boost in confidence and confirmed that I was capable of working under pressure and engaging with influential figures in a meaningful way. It was a defining moment that made me feel prepared for the kind of work I want to do after graduation.”
How you used Career & Professional Development: “The Office of Career and Professional Development was a key resource in helping me prepare for life after graduation. I worked with a career advisors to refine my resume and cover letters and they provided helpful feedback that made my applications stand out. I also took advantage of mock interviews, which helped me build confidence and improve my communication skills. Additionally, I attended career fairs and networking events organized by the department, which gave me valuable exposure to potential employers and helped me better understand what different industries are looking for. The support and guidance I received from the Career & Professional Development office played a major role in helping me feel more prepared and focused in my graduate school and career search.”
What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success? “One of the most valuable life skills HPU helped me develop was effective communication — through presentations, group work and leadership opportunities, I learned how to clearly express ideas and connect with others professionally. HPU also emphasized time management and personal responsibility, which helped me become more organized and self-motivated. Additionally, the focus on professionalism, from networking to how to carry myself in interviews. This gave me the confidence to step into any environment prepared. Perhaps most importantly, HPU instilled a growth mindset, teaching me to embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and improve. These skills have proven just as important as academic knowledge in shaping my future.”
What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation? “One of the most impactful values and virtues HPU’s campus helped me develop was a sense of personal responsibility. HPU encourages students to take ownership of their goals and actions, which helped me become more accountable and self-driven. I also gained a deep appreciation for service and leadership. Through community involvement and campus organizations, I learned the importance of leading with integrity and giving back. Gratitude and positivity were also core parts of the HPU experience — values that shaped my perspective and taught me to approach challenges with optimism and resilience. These virtues have not only made me a better student but will continue to guide me in both my personal and professional life.”
Advice for underclassmen: “My biggest advice to underclassmen is to take full advantage of the opportunities and resources HPU offers — both inside and outside the classroom. Build strong relationships with your professors; their guidance and mentorship can open doors you didn’t even know existed. Start using the Office of Career & Professional Development early — don’t wait until senior year. Get your resume reviewed, attend career fairs and practice your interview skills. Also, don’t underestimate the value of internships and campus involvement — real-world experience is just as important as what you learn in class. Get involved in clubs, organizations, or leadership roles that align with your interests — they help you grow, build your network and make your resume stand out. Most importantly, stay curious, be open to feedback and never stop learning. The habits you build now — being reliable, proactive and professional will carry you long after graduation. Success doesn’t happen all at once, but with consistent effort, you’ll be ready when the opportunity comes.”
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