Here’s a quick glimpse into Caroline’s journey to career success!
Name: Caroline Edwards, Class of 2027
Hometown: Delray Beach, Florida
Major: Interior Design
Internship plans: Caroline Edwards, Class of 2027, served as a Design Intern at ID Collaborative in Boca Raton, Florida. She assisted the design team with healthcare and hospitality projects, including work for Tampa General Hospital and Jackson Healthcare. Caroline worked in Revit and researched materials and products. She also assisted with presentations, project coordination and vendor product updates.
How HPU helped you get there:
“HPU has helped prepare me for my future by giving me both the knowledge and hands-on skills I need to pursue a career in interior design. Through my courses, professors and real-world experiences, I have grown more confident in my design abilities, communication skills and professionalism. HPU has also taught me to challenge myself and take advantage of opportunities that will help me continue growing as a designer.”
How did you use the Office of Career & Professional Development?:
“I have used the Office of Career & Professional Development to help strengthen my resume and LinkedIn profile, as well as prepare for interviews and professional opportunities. Their resources have helped me learn how to present myself professionally, communicate my experiences and skills and feel more confident as I prepare to enter the interior design industry.”
What has your internship experience been like?:
“My internship experience has been preparing me for the future by allowing me to make valuable connections and learn from experienced designers with strong backgrounds in healthcare design. I have also been able to take the programs and skills I have learned at HPU and apply them to real-life projects, presentations, project coordination and organization. This experience has taught me so much about the industry and has helped me continue learning, building confidence and preparing for my future career in interior design.”
What life skills did HPU help you develop?:
“HPU has helped me develop important life skills such as communication, time management, professionalism, confidence and collaboration. I have also learned the importance of always asking questions, being open to learning from others and never being afraid to seek guidance when I need it. These skills have helped me become more confident and prepared for long-term success in both my career and everyday life.”
What values and virtues will you take with you?:
“HPU has helped me develop values such as hard work, gratitude, respect and always being willing to learn and grow. I have learned the importance of treating others with kindness, building meaningful relationships and always putting my best effort into everything I do. These are values I will continue to carry with me throughout my career and life after graduation.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU:
“Kathryn Brandt, assistant professor of interior design, has been the most impactful mentor during my time at HPU. I am forever grateful for the way she has not only taught me the course material, but also encouraged me to push myself and become the best student I can be. Her guidance and support have helped me grow in confidence, challenge myself and continue to strive to be my best both in and outside of the classroom. I will always be grateful for the impact she has had on me and my experience at HPU.”
Most impactful moment at HPU:
“One of my most impactful moments has been looking back at my first design projects compared to the work I am creating now. HPU has challenged me each year, and seeing how much my skills, creativity and confidence have grown has made me excited for my future.”
Advice for underclassmen:
“My advice to underclassmen would be to take advantage of every opportunity HPU offers, especially opportunities like working at High Point Market, internships and networking with professionals. Never be afraid to ask questions, put yourself out there and try something new because you never know what could happen if you don’t try. The experiences that push you outside of your comfort zone are often the ones that help you grow the most and prepare you for success after graduation.”
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