Here’s a quick glimpse at one of many impressive outcomes HPU graduates achieve.
Name: Sydney Fischel, Class of 2026
Hometown: New York City, New York
Major: Business Administration
Post-graduation plans: Sydney has accepted a position with Reckitt as a Sales Analyst in Bentonville, Arkansas. She will begin in Reckitt’s Commercial Graduate Program, gaining hands-on experience using data and customer insights to support business decisions and drive growth across key accounts. Over the next three to four years, the rotational program will allow Sydney to expand her understanding of the business through roles in Trade Marketing and E-Commerce, building a well-rounded commercial foundation across multiple functions.
How HPU helped you get there:
“High Point University helped prepare me for my future by giving me opportunities to grow both professionally and personally. Through strong mentorship, leadership experiences, internships and organizations like Alpha Kappa Psi, I was able to build confidence, strengthen my communication and leadership skills, and gain real-world business experience that helped me secure my role in Reckitt’s Commercial Graduate Program.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU:
“One of the most impactful mentors I had at High Point University was David Bergen, the Z. Smith Reynolds Professor of Leadership. Through the leadership classes I took with him, he helped me realize my full potential and pushed me to pursue the goals I want for my life, while also teaching me how to become a stronger and more confident leader. His mentorship has had a lasting impact on me, and he is someone I know I will continue to look up to long after graduation.”
Most impactful moment at HPU:
“It’s hard to choose just one impactful moment from my time at High Point University because so many experiences shaped who I am today. From studying abroad to joining clubs and organizations that introduced me to lifelong friendships, to leadership opportunities and personal growth, every experience pushed me outside of my comfort zone and helped me grow both personally and professionally.”
How did HPU’s dining experience prepare you for professional settings?
“During my internship last year, there were dining and social components with the team, although they were very laid-back and more group oriented. High Point University helped prepare me for those environments by teaching professionalism, communication and how to confidently build relationships in both social and professional settings.”
What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success?
“High Point University helped me develop life skills that will support my long-term success both professionally and personally. The university strengthened my communication, leadership, adaptability and relationship-building skills through hands-on experiences, internships and involvement on campus, while also teaching me the importance of professionalism, time management and confidence in high-pressure situations.”
What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation?
“High Point University reinforced the values of God, family and country, which are principles I will continue to carry with me after graduation. My faith has taught me to lead with compassion, gratitude and purpose, and that foundation naturally strengthens the importance of family by encouraging love, support and putting others before yourself. From there, those same values extend outward into serving and contributing to your community and country through integrity, hard work and caring about something greater than yourself.”
Advice for underclassmen:
“My advice to underclassmen is that if you want something, you have to go after it yourself. Success after graduation comes from being persistent, working hard, putting yourself out there and staying top of mind with the people and opportunities you care about — whether that’s through networking, following up, asking questions or continuing to show initiative. High Point University gave me opportunities, but I learned that growth really happens when you consistently chase what you want instead of waiting for it to come to you.”
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