Here’s a quick look at where an HPU design education leads.
Name: Ryland Roberts, Class of 2026
Hometown: Greensboro, North Carolina
Major: Interior Design
Post-graduation plans: Ryland has launched her career as a Hospitality Interior Designer at Fortuna Enterprises in Greensboro, North Carolina. She collaborates on the design and development of hospitality environments by creating space plans, selecting finishes and furnishings and producing detailed construction documents. Ryland works closely with the design team to develop functional, aesthetically engaging spaces that align with client goals while meeting project timelines and industry standards.
How HPU helped you get there:
“High Point University prepared me for this position by providing a strong foundation in both the creative and technical aspects of interior design. Through hands-on studio projects, proficiency in industry-standard software such as Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp and Adobe Creative Suite and experience presenting professional design solutions, I graduated with the skills and confidence to transition directly into a hospitality design role. The program also emphasized collaboration, problem-solving, building codes and real-world project workflows, all of which have been valuable in my work at Fortuna Enterprises.”
How did you use the Office of Career & Professional Development?
“Throughout my time at High Point University, I utilized the Office of Career & Professional Development to strengthen my resume and LinkedIn profile, prepare for interviews and explore career opportunities. Their resources and guidance helped me present myself professionally and gave me the confidence to secure my first full-time position as a Hospitality Designer at Fortuna Enterprises.”
How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success?
“HPU’s inspiring campus fostered creativity, professionalism and a commitment to excellence. Being surrounded by a beautiful, thoughtfully designed environment reinforced the importance of intentional design while providing countless opportunities to collaborate, network and prepare for a successful career. The University’s emphasis on experiential learning helped me graduate feeling confident and career-ready.”
What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success?
“High Point University helped me develop strong time management, communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills through challenging studio projects and collaborative assignments. It also taught me how to manage multiple deadlines, accept constructive feedback and present my ideas professionally, skills that have been essential in my career as a hospitality designer.”
What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation?
“HPU instilled the importance of professionalism, integrity, perseverance and lifelong learning. The supportive campus environment encouraged me to be confident, accountable and respectful while building meaningful relationships with professors and peers. These values continue to guide me as I begin my professional career.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU:
“My interior design professors had the greatest impact on my experience at HPU because they challenged me to think critically, pushed me to grow creatively and always encouraged me to produce my best work. Their mentorship and real-world guidance gave me the confidence and technical skills to transition directly into a professional hospitality design career after graduation.”
Most impactful moment at HPU:
“The most impactful moment of my time at High Point University was presenting my senior capstone project. It brought together everything I had learned over four years from concept development and technical documentation to client presentations and problem-solving. Seeing how much I had grown as both a designer and a professional gave me the confidence to begin my career and confirmed that I was ready to enter the hospitality design industry.”
Advice for underclassmen:
“My biggest piece of advice is to take advantage of every opportunity High Point University offers. Build relationships with your professors and classmates, attend networking events, develop a strong portfolio and don’t be afraid to ask questions. The skills you gain inside and outside the classroom will set you apart and help you transition confidently into your career after graduation.”
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