Here’s a quick glimpse at one of many impressive outcomes HPU graduates achieve.
Name: Tenisha Cherenfant, Class of 2026
Hometown: Baltimore, Maryland
Major: Sports Management | Minor: Strategic Communication
Post-graduation plans: Tenisha has accepted a position as a Claims Associate at Key Risk (a Berkley Company) in High Point, North Carolina. In this role, she will manage workers’ compensation claims by communicating with clients, employers and medical providers to ensure claims are handled accurately and efficiently. Tenisha will also investigate claims, maintain detailed documentation and learn workers’ compensation laws while providing excellent customer service in a professional insurance environment.
How HPU helped you get there:
“High Point University has played a huge role in preparing me for my future by giving me the support, guidance and confidence needed to pursue my career goals. Through the Office of Career and Professional Development, I was able to gain valuable advice on career planning, professional growth and how to find opportunities that align with both my skills and passions. One of the biggest influences on my journey was Samantha Gates Reese, career advisor, who was an amazing mentor and source of encouragement throughout the process. Samantha helped me realize that choosing a career is not just about finding a job, but about finding something that truly fits who I am and what I enjoy doing. She encouraged me to look for opportunities where I could apply my communication, leadership and organizational skills while also finding happiness and fulfillment in my work. Her guidance helped me feel more confident about my post-graduation plans and motivated me to pursue a career path that I am genuinely excited about.”
How did you use the Office of Career & Professional Development?
“Throughout my time at High Point University, I used the Office of Career & Professional Development in many ways to help prepare for my future career. They assisted me with building and improving my resume, provided interviewing tips and practice, and guided me through the job application and selection process. Their support helped me feel more confident and professional when applying for opportunities. The office also helped me explore internship opportunities through the career fairs and networking events. One experience that stood out to me was connecting with the National Sports Media Association at the career fair, which helped me gain insight into opportunities within the sports media industry. Overall, the Office of Career & Professional Development played a major role in helping me grow professionally and prepare for life after graduation.”
What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success?
“High Point University helped me develop many important life skills that will prepare me for long-term success both personally and professionally. Through my classes, leadership opportunities, and campus involvement, I strengthened my communication, teamwork, leadership and time management skills. As a Sport Management major with a Strategic Communication minor, I learned how to work effectively with different groups of people, think critically and stay organized while balancing academics, extracurricular activities and professional responsibilities. HPU also taught me the importance of professionalism and how to confidently introduce myself in different professional settings and environments. Through networking events, mentorship opportunities, presentations and career development programs, I learned how to carry myself professionally, build meaningful connections and communicate effectively with others. These experiences helped me become more confident, adaptable and prepared to step into new opportunities while pursuing a career that aligns with both my goals and passions.”
What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation?
“High Point University’s campus environment helped me develop values and virtues that I will carry with me long after graduation. Being part of a community that emphasizes character, leadership and personal growth taught me the importance of respect, integrity, professionalism and compassion toward others. Through my experiences in the classroom, campus organizations, and leadership opportunities, I learned how important it is to support others, work collaboratively and lead with confidence and empathy. HPU also encouraged me to value hard work, perseverance and stepping outside of my comfort zone in order to grow. The university’s focus on building meaningful relationships and presenting yourself professionally helped me become more confident in who I am and how I interact with others in different environments. These values and life lessons will continue to guide me as I pursue my career goals and navigate life after graduation.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU:
“One of the most impactful mentors I had at High Point University was Melody Emerson, Instructor in Strategic Communication at the Nido R. Qubein School of Communication. From the moment I met her, she created an environment where I felt encouraged to learn, grow and stay engaged. Her lessons were always meaningful and inspiring, and the way she connected with students made me genuinely excited to participate and continue learning from her. When I was a quiet sophomore still trying to find my confidence and place, she saw potential in me that I could not yet see in myself. She never discouraged my curiosity and always encouraged me to think bigger, believe in my abilities and recognize the opportunities and possibilities ahead of me. Professor Emerson was someone I could always count on for support, encouragement and guidance, and she even noticed when something was wrong before I ever said anything. Her belief in me helped me grow into a more confident and motivated person, and the impact she had on my life is something I will carry with me long after my four years here at HPU.”
Most impactful moment at HPU:
“One of the most impactful parts of my experience at High Point University was meeting the friends who eventually became like family to me. Moving far away from home was a big adjustment, and at first it was difficult being away from everything and everyone I was familiar with. However, the relationships I built at HPU helped make campus feel like a second home and gave me a strong support system throughout my college journey. The friendships I formed were meaningful because they helped me grow both personally and emotionally. Through late nights, stressful moments, celebrations and everyday experiences, these people became more than just friends, they became family. They supported me during challenging times, encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone and made my time at HPU unforgettable. Those relationships are something I will always value and carry with me long after graduation.”
Advice for underclassmen:
“My advice to underclassmen is to never believe it is too late to start pursuing your goals. Just because you may feel like you did not accomplish enough during your first few years of college does not mean all hope is lost by your final year. You can accomplish so much in a short amount of time if you are willing to push yourself, stay motivated and take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way. Do not give yourself an internal deadline on success or growth. Everyone’s journey looks different, and opportunities can appear when you least expect them. The moment you stop trying is the moment you limit your own potential. Keep believing in yourself, stay open to growth and trust that your hard work will eventually lead you where you are meant to be.
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