Take a look at the kind of results an HPU education makes possible.
Name: Reilly Gallagher, Class of 2026
Hometown: Norfolk, Virginia
Major: Fashion Merchandising
Post-graduation plans: Reilly is launching her career as an Assistant Buyer at Rent the Runway in New York City, New York. She helps decide what merchandise to purchase by analyzing consumer preferences and trends, using data to identify top sellers and building strong vendor relationships to negotiate deals. Reilly collaborates with other buyers and departments to ensure the right styles are in stock so customers keep renting.
How HPU helped you get there:
“High Point University’s Fashion Merchandising program built my foundation in retail math, buying strategy, design and trend forecasting. HPU’s hands-on approach, including my study abroad in Florence, gave me the confidence and industry knowledge to stand out in the interview process.”
How did you use the Office of Career & Professional Development?
“I worked with the Office of Career & Professional Development for resume and cover letter reviews, mock interviews and personalized career coaching that helped me navigate my job search and ultimately land my current role with confidence.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU:
“Dr. Victoria Brown, assistant professor of fashion merchandising, was my most impactful mentor at HPU because she pushed me to think critically about retail strategy and consistently challenged me to go beyond surface-level analysis in my coursework. Her mentorship gave me the confidence and skills to pursue a career in buying, and her guidance was instrumental in helping me land my Assistant Buyer role at Rent the Runway.”
Most impactful moment at HPU:
“My most impactful moments at HPU were studying abroad in Florence, where I gained hands on fashion design experience and a global perspective on the industry and serving as VP of Events and Programming for Kappa Delta, where I developed leadership and organizational skills. Both experiences pushed me outside my comfort zone and taught me how to manage real responsibility, which gave me the confidence and skill set to thrive in the fashion industry.”
Advice for underclassmen:
“Don’t count yourself out of roles that feel like a stretch. Apply anyway, because you often have more relevant skills and experience than you realize. Some of my biggest opportunities came from pursuing positions that initially felt out of reach, and pushing through that discomfort is often what gets you in the door.”
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