Payton, pictured left, describes her path to career success.
Name: Payton Black, Class of 2026
Hometown: Landis, North Carolina
Major: Entrepreneurship, minor in Fashion Merchandising
Post-graduation plans: Payton has launched her career as the owner of Double the Threads Boutique, a women’s clothing boutique in Oak Island, North Carolina. Double the Threads is intended to create an experience where every piece is thoughtfully curated, and every customer feels welcomed. Payton selects the boutique’s collections with quality, uniqueness, confidence and community in mind, making it easy for customers to build a wardrobe that reflects their personal style.
How HPU helped you get there:
“High Point University helped me prepare for this venture by equipping me with the knowledge and confidence to pursue a dream I had always wanted. Through the classes I took, leadership opportunities I gained and the support from my friends and HPU faculty, I built Double the Threads from the ground up, eventually leading me to this great opportunity of owning and operating a business.”
How did you use the Office of Career & Professional Development?:
“The Office of Career & Professional Development helped guide me by connecting me with other professionals in the career path I have chosen. This allowed me to connect with experienced business owners, so I felt more prepared and confident going into a business of my own.”
What life skills did HPU help you develop?:
“Attending HPU allowed me to develop life skills such as communication, leadership and problem-solving to achieve long-term success. Not only have these skills improved my knowledge of how to run my business, but I have also witnessed their importance as I adapt to the challenges any business can present.”
What values and virtues will you take with you?:
“The values I took with me throughout college and post-graduation are professionalism, kindness and the importance of building meaningful relationships. I will continue to carry these values with me as I grow Double the Threads further, creating a lasting impression and impact for my community.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU:
“The most impactful mentor at HPU was Dr. Debbi Brock, associate professor of entrepreneurship. I had the privilege of working with her in my capstone class for my Entrepreneurship major. She guided me, challenged me and supported me in pursuing my end goal of opening Double the Threads. Her positivity and business knowledge gave me the confidence to take a risk at an early age.”
Most impactful moment at HPU:
“The most impactful moment at HPU was witnessing the growth and confidence being instilled in me. Through class projects, leadership opportunities and more, High Point pushes you to become the best version of yourself. High Point University truly prepares you for the path you choose to follow if you actively seek guidance from professors and mentors they connect you with.”
Advice for underclassmen:
“Underclassmen, take advantage of every opportunity High Point offers you. From building relationships with your professors to getting involved on campus, push yourself to get out of your comfort zone. Try new things that scare you because the experiences you gain from those will prepare you for the future path you decide to take.”
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