Here’s a quick glimpse into Patrick’s journey to career success!
Name: Patrick Parker, Class of 2026
Hometown: Denver, North Carolina
Major: Business Administration; minors in Sales and Finance
Post-graduation plans: Patrick will be starting his career as an Insurance and Financial Services Representative at State Farm in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. In this role, he will help individuals and families protect what matters most by providing guidance on insurance coverage and financial products. The role involves assessing clients’ needs, recommending appropriate policies and financial solutions and building long-term relationships through trusted service and support.
How HPU helped you get there:
“HPU helped prepare me for my career by connecting me with valuable real-world opportunities that strengthened both my professional skills and confidence. Through the university’s strong network, I gained hands-on experience working internships at The Masters Tournament and High Point Furniture Market, where I developed communication, customer service and relationship-building skills in high-level professional environments. These experiences helped prepare me to work with clients and build lasting relationships in my current role as an Insurance and Financial Services Representative.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU:
“My most impactful mentor at HPU was Dr. Bridget Holcombe, Professor of the Practice of Marketing, because of the intentional investment she made in my life outside of the classroom. She consistently took time to meet, offer guidance and genuinely care about my growth both academically and personally. Her willingness to go beyond her role as a professor and pour into students made a lasting impact on me. It helped shape the way I approach relationships, leadership and my future career.”
Most impactful moment at HPU:
“One of the most impactful moments during my time at HPU was hearing Dr. Qubein in the President’s Seminar say, ‘Whoever you surround yourself with is who you will become.’ That statement challenged me to be more intentional about the people I spend time with and the environments I place myself in. It reminded me that the character, habits and values of those around me can shape my own future, and it motivated me to pursue friendships and mentors who push me to grow and live with purpose.”
How you used Career & Professional Development:
“The most helpful part of the Office of Career and Professional Development at HPU has been the interviewing tips. Having access to rooms in Cottrell Hall where you can record yourself and review your answers is extremely helpful and prepared me for my interviews.”
Did any portion of your job interview process include a dining component, such as lunch or dinner with your potential employer? If so, did you feel HPU prepared you for this type of setting?
“Yes, it included a lunch. HPU specifically helped me by providing access to fine-dining locations on campus, such as 1924 Prime. Here, I learned practical skills to help me when meeting people over a meal. The most helpful was learning how to dress for specific occasions and locations.”
What are the values that HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation?
“HPU helped me most in developing the values of ‘God, Family, Country.’ My time on campus strengthened my faith and encouraged me to prioritize my relationship with God as the foundation for how I live and make decisions. It also reinforced the importance of family and investing in meaningful relationships with the people closest to me. Finally, HPU instilled in me a sense of gratitude and responsibility toward my community and country, values that I will continue to carry with me as I pursue my career and serve others after graduation.”
Advice for underclassmen:
“My advice for underclassmen at HPU is to find great friends who encourage you to be your best. The people you surround yourself with will influence your habits, mindset and the direction of your life, so choose relationships that challenge you to grow and pursue excellence. When you build friendships with people who support your goals and values, it creates an environment that helps prepare you for success long after graduation.”
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