Here’s a quick glimpse at one of many impressive outcomes HPU graduates achieve.
Name: Maxwell Rattet, Class of 2025
Hometown: Baltimore, Maryland
Major: Sports Management; minor in Sales
Post-graduation plans: Maxwell will begin his career as an Events and Hospitality Professional at Under Armour in Baltimore, Maryland. As an Events and Hospitality Professional at Under Armour, Maxwell will be part of a global team that supports the planning and execution of internal events, VIP hospitality, and campus tours. He will ensure exceptional guest experiences and seamless operations, managing logistics, coordinating with vendors, and providing on-site event support. Additionally, his role also offers opportunities for growth and development, as it involves providing general support across the Global Communications team.
How HPU helped you get there: “High Point University’s Sport Management curriculum and emphasis on developing leaders through life skills fostered critical thinking, innovation, and practical skills during my undergraduate career. Through hands-on experiences with the HPU Athletic Department, the Dallas Mavericks, the Philadelphia Phillies, and Under Armour, I gained a real-world understanding that directly prepared me for my role at Under Armour.”
How did you utilize the Office of Career & Professional Development? “I took advantage of both the Career Advisors and Peer Career Advisors in the Office of Career & Professional Development. I regularly visited the Resume Bar to refine my résumé and cover letter, especially when tailoring them for specific opportunities. When I started applying for jobs, I met one-on-one with a Career Advisor to build a clear strategy. We identified the types of roles that aligned with my skills and the companies that matched my career goals. Their support helped me feel more confident and intentional throughout the job search process.”
Did any portion of your job interview process include a dining component, such as lunch or dinner with your potential employer? “Shortly after accepting my offer, I met my manager for lunch. I felt fully prepared by HPU’s fine-dining learning labs. The experiences of having professional dinners with my friends gave me the confidence to anticipate appropriate conversation topics, ask insightful questions, and conduct myself with professional behavior in a business dining setting.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU: “Dr. Jenny Lukow, Chair and Associate Professor of the Sport Management Department, has been my most impactful mentor at HPU. She’s been in my corner since day one, even before I officially stepped on campus. During my first campus visit, she and Dr. Slavov (Assistant Professor of Sports Management) met with me and my family to introduce me to the program. From helping me find internships to encouraging me to put myself out there, Dr. Lukow always pushed me to grow and lead with confidence. She’s one of the hardest-working, energetic, and caring educators I’ve ever met. Whether it was forwarding professional opportunities, checking in on career goals, or helping me navigate campus leadership, she always made time and went above and beyond. As my academic advisor, professor, and co-advisor for the Sport Management Association, she played a significant role in making the Sport Management program feel like a second home. We regularly met to talk about how I could contribute to the program’s future, including launching a mentorship initiative to connect first-year students with upperclassmen and helping drive engagement with our digital content and events. Dr. Lukow believed in me early on, and her mentorship played a significant role in shaping my HPU experience.”
Most impactful moment at HPU: “During my senior year, I was selected as one of eight students for the prestigious Dallas Mavericks Externship, an opportunity I had looked forward to since applying to HPU. This experience provided me with an inside look at the operations of an NBA franchise. Through sessions with the Mavericks’ executive team, I gained insights into how strategic planning fosters global fan base growth, how compelling storytelling enhances brand loyalty across digital channels, and how flexibility in media rights negotiations helps a franchise remain competitive. I also learned the significance of hands-on exposure to fan engagement strategies, highlighting the importance of building genuine relationships. This externship further solidified my passion for sports and exemplifies HPU’s dedication to real-world learning and career readiness.”
How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success? “HPU’s environment constantly reminded me to dream bigger and push harder. You can’t walk through campus without feeling inspired; whether it’s the leadership quotes on the walls, the energy in Cottrell or the Nido R. Qubein School of Communication, or the way everyone treats you like a future professional, not just a student. Being surrounded by that kind of positivity and purpose made me more driven, more intentional, and more confident in my ability to succeed. That mindset helped me land internships with the Philadelphia Phillies and Under Armour, and ultimately led to one of those internships becoming a full-time role after graduation. HPU didn’t just teach me what success looks like; it also showed me how to achieve it. It showed me how to chase it every single day.”
What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success? “During my internships with the Philadelphia Phillies and Under Armour, I competed against candidates from larger universities. What set me apart was the hands-on experience I gained at HPU and the fearless, challenge-driven mindset they instilled in me.”
What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation? “HPU helped me develop a foundation of values that show up in everything I do – from how I lead events to how I build relationships. Personal responsibility was a big one. I learned how to manage my time, take ownership of my outcomes, and stay accountable to high standards. At the same time, I gained a genuine appreciation for service and hospitality. Whether I was leading fan engagement at an HPU basketball game or fostering a culture around the Sport Management program, I understood the impact of showing up with intention, empathy, and excellence. HPU has also ingrained in me the transformative power of gratitude and optimism. In the whirlwind of fast-paced environments, I’ve learned to stay grounded, celebrate progress, and lead with resilience. These aren’t just values I’ve adopted; they’ve become ingrained habits that I’m committed to carrying into every facet of my life and career.”
Advice for underclassmen: “Take the initiative and don’t wait to be asked. If you notice a need, step up and take action. Whether it’s organizing a club event, reaching out to alumni for advice, or volunteering at a local event, these hands-on experiences and connections will distinguish you when you start your full-time job. Staying eager to learn is not just a trait; it’s a mindset that unlocks new opportunities.”
Are you an HPU graduate with an exciting job or graduate school offer?
Share your news with us for a chance to be featured!