Here’s a quick glimpse at one of many impressive outcomes HPU graduates achieve.
Name: Catherine Hourihan, Class of 2026
Hometown: Walpole, Massachusetts
Major: Sales; minor in Entrepreneurship
Internship plans: Catherine will be interning for ABC WPBF 25 News as their Sales Intern in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. As their Sales Intern, she will be making cold calls to drive revenue growth, present marketing analytics to the sales team and help close major deals such as the Palm Beach Marathon, college football broadcasts and Prospect by Initiative. Building on last summer’s experience at WCVB NewsCenter 5 in Boston, where Catherine supported B2B sales and ad campaigns during high-profile events like the NBA Finals and Boston Marathon, she will be continuing to grow within Hearst Television and sharpen her skills in media sales and client development.
How HPU helped you get there: “High Point University has prepared me for these real-world sales environments through dynamic sales classes, global experience abroad that broadened my perspective and consistent presentation opportunities that strengthened my communication and confidence in front of a room. The Office of Career and Professional Development also helped refine my resume from last summer’s internship under Hearst Television to help me get this new internship in a new location — they were excellent.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU: “Raymond Johnson, Assistant Professor of Sales, is one of the best in the industry. He connects effortlessly with students and is hands down the best salesman I’ve ever met. In his class, we participated in role-play exercises as client and seller, which pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow my confidence. He partnered us randomly and challenged us to perfect our two-minute drill, teaching real-world business lessons in just one semester. More than a professor, he’s a mentor — and truly one of the most genuine, kind individuals I’ve had the chance to learn from.”
What has your internship experience been like and how is it preparing you for your future? “These back-to-back internships with Hearst Television have given me firsthand exposure to high-level media sales, client relationship-building and data-driven strategy. Combined with the professional preparation I’ve received from High Point University, I feel fully equipped to thrive in fast-paced, competitive sales environments. These experiences haven’t just prepared me for the next step; they’ve confirmed that a future in sales leadership is exactly where I’m meant to be.”
How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success? “Being motivated with other aspiring business professionals!”
What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success? “The life skills HPU helped me develop were presentation skills, attention to detail and to be on time — early is on time!”
Advice for underclassmen: “Surround yourself with people who challenge you, uplift you and push you to become your best self. You truly are a reflection of those around you — so choose wisely, stay motivated and remember: you were born for greatness!”
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