Calvin Byrd Begins Career at Stryker

How HPU helped you get there: “The amazing support from Dr. Daniel Hall, dean of the School of Business, April Cosner and every professor in the Earl N. Phillips School of Business.”

Most impactful mentor at HPU: “In my first two years at HPU, April Cosner was the most impactful mentor in helping me find my direction, build confidence and ultimately land my first internship. Now, in my senior year, I’ve found a new mentor in Professor Sydney Lang, instructor of mathematical sciences, who has guided me through Business Statistics with real-world applicability and career-focused conversations. Sydney and I have met multiple times outside of class to discuss career choices, project ideas and shared passions. Her mentorship has been extremely meaningful during this stage of my journey.”

Most impactful moment at HPU: “My time serving in Student Government was the most impactful part of my HPU experience. Working alongside a group of driven, motivated leaders taught me how to collaborate, communicate and move initiatives forward. It challenged me to grow personally and professionally, and helped me become a stronger communicator and leader.”

How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success? “HPU’s campus embodies the idea that you are the sum of the people you surround yourself with. This environment is filled with passionate students, supportive professors and a business school that pushes you to think and operate at a high level. Being surrounded by people who are driven, disciplined and committed to excellence inspired me to raise my own standards and pursue opportunities relentlessly.”

What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success? “HPU taught me true professionalism and gave me the confidence to proactively build relationships, which enabled me to complete over 150 informational interviews with Stryker employees and ultimately land a Stryker internship in Chicago and a full-time role in Seattle. The well-rounded business curriculum in the Earl N. Phillips School of Business, from statistics to marketing, sales and finance really prepared me to think critically, communicate clearly and operate in a fast-paced environment. HPU helped me develop the mindset and skill set needed to not just find my passion, but land my dream job at Stryker.”

Did any portion of your job interview process include a dining component? If so, did you feel prepared? “While my final round of interviews did not include a formal dining component, I gained extensive real-world experience in similar professional settings. Through over 150 informational interviews, many of which took place over coffee, meals and various settings during my internship. I learned how to carry myself professionally, build rapport and communicate effectively in those environments. HPU absolutely prepared me to navigate those interactions with confidence, presence and professionalism.”

What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation? “HPU’s campus reinforced values like gratitude, discipline and doing what you say you will do. From professors who held high standards, to daily interactions with peers and mentors, the environment instilled accountability, professionalism and service to others. These core values will continue to guide how I show up in my career, build relationships and lead with purpose after graduation.”

Advice for underclassmen: “If you want something, especially in a competitive field, you have to do the work to earn it. Network constantly, find mentors who will tell you the truth and give you real feedback, and put yourself in rooms where you can learn from people operating at a high level. Enjoy every moment here, but also remember that your time at High Point University goes fast, so invest in yourself early and consistently to set yourself up for the best possible outcome after graduation.”