Here’s a quick glimpse into Khayla’s journey to career success!
Name: Khayla Gattison, Class of 2026
Hometown: Darlington, South Carolina
Major: Sociology and Anthropology, minor in Criminal Justice
Post-graduation plans: Khayla has launched her career as a Foster Care Case Manager with the Dillon County Department of Social Services in Dillon, South Carolina. She works with children and families involved in the foster care system, helping ensure the safety and well-being of children while supporting families toward reunification when appropriate. Khayla coordinates services, communicates with families and professionals, advocates for children’s needs and helps connect families with resources that support long-term stability.
How HPU helped you get there:
“HPU gave me the academic foundation, professional experiences and confidence I needed to transition successfully from college into my career. Through my coursework, professors, campus opportunities and emphasis on career preparation, HPU helped me understand how to turn my passion for helping others into a meaningful career in social work and child welfare. My HPU experience also prepared me to continue my education through my Master of Social Work program while gaining hands-on professional experience.”
How did you use the Office of Career & Professional Development?:
“I utilized the Office of Career & Professional Development as I prepared for life after graduation, particularly through career resources, resume preparation, professional development and guidance related to pursuing employment. These resources helped me better understand how to present my experiences and skills professionally and gave me greater confidence entering the job search and interview process.”
How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success?:
“HPU’s environment pushed me to dream bigger and take my goals seriously. Being surrounded by ambitious students, supportive faculty and a campus that emphasizes personal and professional growth encouraged me to become more confident in myself and my abilities. That environment played a major role in helping me graduate, secure a full-time position, continue serving my community and pursue my MSW.”
What life skills did HPU help you develop?:
“HPU taught me how to manage my time, communicate professionally, advocate for myself and remain adaptable when faced with challenges. Balancing academics, work, internships and my involvement in the community taught me responsibility and discipline. Most importantly, I learned that success requires consistency, resilience and being willing to step outside of my comfort zone.”
What values and virtues will you take with you?:
“HPU strengthened my values of service, compassion, leadership, integrity and perseverance. Being surrounded by a community that encourages students to grow personally and professionally reminded me that success is not only about what you accomplish for yourself, but also about how you use your opportunities to impact others. I will carry that mindset into my career and continue serving children, families and my community.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU:
“Dr. Robert Tillman, director of the Bonner Leader Program and my former professor, has been one of the most impactful mentors throughout my HPU journey. He was one of the first professors to truly see my potential and push me to recognize it in myself. He constantly encouraged me to do better, challenge myself and become more extraordinary, and his support played an important role in helping me pursue my goals. Even after completing his class, Dr. Tillman has continued to be a mentor and someone I can look to for encouragement and guidance. I will always be grateful that he saw something in me before I fully saw it in myself.”
Most impactful moment at HPU:
“My most impactful moments at HPU came through my involvement in service, particularly serving as a Hunger Challenge Ambassador and Vice President of the Volunteer Center. These experiences gave me the opportunity to serve my community, give back and help people who were experiencing challenges with access to resources. They showed me the importance of using my time, leadership and education to make a difference in the lives of others. My experiences through HPU’s service opportunities helped shape the person and professional I am today and strengthened my passion for social work, advocacy and community service.”
Advice for underclassmen:
“My advice to freshmen is to start building connections from day one. Get involved on campus, find organizations and activities that align with your interests, give back to the community and build meaningful relationships with your professors, mentors and other students. Most importantly, take advantage of the tools and resources HPU provides because they are there to help you grow, succeed and prepare for life after graduation. The connections and experiences you build in college can have an impact on you long after you leave campus.”
Are you an HPU graduate with exciting news to share?
Share your news with us for a chance to be featured!