Here’s a look at the kind of hands-on experience HPU students step into.
Name: Sarah Freeman, Class of 2027
Hometown: Rancho Santa Margarita, California
Major: Electrical Engineering | Minor: Mathematics
Internship plans: Sarah Freeman, Class of 2027, served as a Project Leader Intern at ASSA ABLOY in Lake Forest, California. She led cross-functional projects by coordinating timelines, tracking deliverables and facilitating communication among stakeholders, and she helped drive strategic initiatives from planning through execution. The experience has allowed Sarah to strengthen her project management, leadership, problem-solving and professional communication skills while contributing to real-world business objectives.
How HPU helped you get there:
“HPU provided me with the resources, professional development opportunities and mentorship I needed to successfully pursue an internship. The university’s emphasis on professionalism helped me build confidence in my resume, LinkedIn profile and interview skills, allowing me to present myself effectively to employers and secure opportunities that align with my career goals.”
What has your internship experience been like?
“My internship provided valuable insight into both professional growth and long-term career development. By working with teams across marketing, engineering, finance and operations, I have gained a broader understanding of how businesses operate and how different perspectives contribute to decision-making. This experience has strengthened my ability to communicate across functions, solve problems collaboratively and approach technical challenges with a more well-rounded perspective.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU:
“My most impactful mentor at HPU has been my advisor and professor, Dr. Douglas Isenberg, associate professor of electrical and computer engineering. Throughout my academic journey, he has provided guidance, encouragement and support while helping me balance academics and extracurriculars. His mentorship has challenged me to stay focused on my goals while maintaining a positive mindset during demanding periods.”
Most impactful moment at HPU:
“One of my most impactful experiences at HPU has been working alongside fellow engineering students in collaborative lab environments. Tackling challenging technical projects together not only strengthened my engineering knowledge but also built lasting friendships and reinforced the value of teamwork, perseverance and striving for excellence.”
What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success?
“HPU helped me develop the life skills that are increasingly valuable in today’s technology-driven world. Learning how to network, build meaningful relationships, communicate effectively and be a reliable teammate has prepared me to succeed in collaborative environments and contribute positively to any organization.”
What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation?
“HPU reinforced the importance of integrity, professionalism, resilience and servant leadership. I have learned that success comes not only from technical knowledge, but also from treating others with respect, building strong relationships and maintaining a growth mindset when facing challenges.”
Advice for underclassmen:
“Take full advantage of the resources and opportunities HPU offers, and develop a strong sense of ambition. The biggest obstacle between you and your goals is often your mindset. If you believe in yourself and are willing to put in the work, resilience, persistence and a willingness to learn will take you far.”
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