Here’s a quick glimpse into Nya’s summer of leadership and service.
Name: Nya Ruiz, Class of 2029
Hometown: Cherry Hill, New Jersey
Major: Finance | Minor: Social Innovation
Internship plans: Nya Ruiz, Class of 2029, served as a Bank of America Student Leader at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia. She supported nonprofit operations through grant research, data analysis and resource allocation. Nya assisted in developing funding proposals by gathering community statistics and evaluating program needs, while also contributing to youth programming and daily organizational management. The leadership role included ongoing civic engagement training and professional development through Bank of America’s national Student Leaders program.
How HPU helped you get there:
“HPU has supported my growth by giving me hands-on leadership roles and real-world professional experiences that strengthened my communication and analytical skills. Programs like the Bonner Leader Program, NABA and Impact Mentoring have helped me build confidence, develop discipline and stay focused on my long-term goals in finance.”
How did you use the Office of Career & Professional Development?
“I used the Office of Career & Professional Development to help identify my career path in finance, which guided my decision to pursue it as my major. They also helped me refine my resume and LinkedIn profile, which directly led me to finding this internship opportunity.”
Did your interview process include a dining component?
“Before the internship began, we attended a leadership summit in Charlotte, North Carolina, where we had the opportunity to network with panelists over lunch and dinner. HPU prepared me well for this setting through weekly fine-dining experiences that taught proper etiquette, professional conversation and confidence in formal dining environments.”
What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success?
“HPU has helped me build strong communication, leadership and time-management skills through hands-on roles. Balancing academics, service and professional development taught me discipline, organization and the ability to perform under pressure.”
What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation?
“HPU strengthened my commitment to service, professionalism and integrity. Through leadership programs and community-focused work, I learned the importance of showing up prepared, treating others with respect and leading with purpose.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU:
“Dr. Robert J. Tillman, director of the Bonner Leader Program, has been my most impactful mentor at HPU. As part of the service-learning program, I serve as a Bonner Leader, and Dr. Tillman has guided me through academic challenges while consistently supporting my personal and professional growth. He has connected me with professionals in my field and has been an exceptional mentor whose leadership and encouragement have shaped my development.”
Most impactful moment at HPU:
“My most impactful moment at HPU was attending the Life Skills Career Summit, where I had the opportunity to network with professionals from a wide range of fields and connect with High Point alumni. Hearing their experiences and career journeys helped me clarify my own goals in finance and gave me insight into the skills needed to succeed long-term.”
Advice for underclassmen:
“I’m a rising sophomore, and my biggest advice to underclassmen is to take advantage of every networking opportunity HPU offers. Building relationships with professionals, alumni and mentors early creates momentum that will help you long before graduation.”
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