Here’s a quick glimpse into Avery’s journey to career success!
Name: Avery Person, Class of 2028
Hometown: Old Bridge, New Jersey
Major: Multimedia Journalism and Sports Media (dual degree)
Internship plans: Avery Person, Class of 2028, completed a Sports Journalism Internship at FOX 8 WGHP in High Point, North Carolina during the fall 2025 and spring 2026 semesters of his sophomore year. Working directly with the sports department, Avery helped set up interviews, gathered content, wrote questions and assisted with producing segments for broadcast. He gained hands-on experience in a real newsroom, learning how to operate under pressure, communicate professionally and adapt quickly when plans changed. This role strengthened his confidence in sports media and confirmed the career path he is working toward.
How HPU helped you get there:
“HPU provided me with a success coach my freshman year that allowed me to schedule classes in my major, which provided me with knowledge early on while giving me a confidence boost to think big and work hard to land an internship within my major.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU:
“Dr. Doug Hall, Vice President for Career and Professional Development, has been my most impactful mentor at HPU because he consistently invested in my growth and pushed me to pursue opportunities with confidence. His guidance helped me understand how to present myself professionally, navigate the industry, and make decisions that align with my long-term goals. He believed in my potential early on, and his support strengthened both my career direction and my faith in the path God is leading me on.”
Most impactful moment at HPU:
“My most impactful moment at HPU was traveling to Indianapolis for the Association of Fraternal Leadership and Values (AFLV) as a leader in Phi Beta Sigma. That experience opened my eyes to what leadership truly looks like and helped me grow as a representative of my fraternity and my campus. It was a moment that strengthened my confidence, my voice, and my commitment to serving others.”
How did you use the Office of Career & Professional Development?
“I’ve used the Office of Career & Professional Development for résumé reviews, internship guidance, and professional coaching. Their support helped me refine my materials, prepare for interviews, and confidently pursue competitive opportunities. They played a major role in helping me secure internships that aligned with my career goals.”
How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success?
“I am currently a junior and on track to graduate in 2028 with a dual degree in Multimedia Journalism and Sports Media. HPU’s campus offers fine dining experiences that allow for the opportunity to dress in business attire, giving a sense of professionalism. Other amenities offer a sense of peace and a feeling of home away from home. The academic buildings are top-notch and create an environment that makes it easier to learn, maintain focus, and strive for greatness.”
What has your internship experience been like?
“My internship at FOX8 WGHP has been one of the most valuable experiences of my college career thus far. Working in a real newsroom taught me how to operate under pressure, communicate professionally, and produce content that reaches a wide audience. It has prepared me for the future by giving me firsthand experience in sports reporting, interviewing, and storytelling skills I’ll carry into my career after graduation.”
What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success?
“High Point University gave me real-world opportunities early on, allowing me to build a professional portfolio through classes that I have taken in my major through the School of Communication. I have also gained life skills through experiential learning, mentorship, and access to hands-on reporting and broadcasting opportunities on campus, which have allowed me to grow my confidence and sharpen the skills needed for a career in sports media. HPU’s culture of excellence pushed me to raise my standards and pursue opportunities I once thought were out of reach.”
What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation?
“The values and virtues that I learned on HPU’s campus are leadership and adaptability, which have helped strengthen my communication and professionalism skills that are essential in fast-paced media environments. I learned how to collaborate effectively, manage deadlines, and present myself with confidence in any setting. These life skills have prepared me for long-term success both inside and outside the newsroom.”
Advice for underclassmen:
“Take advantage of every opportunity, big or small, because each one builds your experience and your confidence. Build relationships with mentors, stay consistent in your work, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Most importantly, trust God’s plan for your life and stay grounded in who you are.”
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