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How HPU helped you get there: “High Point University allowed me to connect with upperclassmen, professors and industry professionals from the start of freshman year to give me a strong understanding of the career field I wanted to enter. The Office of Career & Professional Development helped me often during my first semester of freshman year before obtaining my first internship. I worked with the office advisors and utilized all of their advice, as well as recommendations prior to the internship search and interview processes.”

Most impactful mentor at HPU: “All of the finance professors were extremely helpful and impactful in assisting my career development and teaching me the necessary skills to enter the banking world. Particularly, Dr. Jim Wehrley, associate professor of finance; Dr. Thomas James, professor of the practice of finance; and Dr. Steven Lifland, professor of accounting and finance; allowed me to flourish as a finance student, as a leader within the university’s Investment Club and a young professional in the industry.”

How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success? “Graduating high school in 2020 allowed me to spend the summer focusing on what I want out of my university experience. Within the first week, I was able to connect with all of the organizations I was interested in, and each club president was extremely helpful in their advice. Connecting with these student leaders in the first week opened up a variety of opportunities down the road including leadership positions, internships and my post-grad job.”

Advice for underclassmen: “The best way to be successful post-grad is to get connected early with faculty, students and student organizations. Explore your interests and learn from those who have worked in the field or gone through the same processes you plan to go through.”

How HPU helped you get there: “HPU has given me the opportunities to learn how to network, which has helped me get into the Gray Television Mentorship Program. This eventually led to my interview and now, my job acceptance. My time as a Communications Fellow has allowed me to learn many aspects and skills that will be useful in the newsroom.”

Most impactful mentor at HPU: “It is almost impossible to answer this question as I have had so many mentors both in and out of the Nido R. Qubein School of Communication who have guided me through my time at HPU. Joe Michaels, professor of the practice of media production and HPU’s broadcaster in residence; Doug Brown, chair and associate professor of theatre and performance; Dr. Bobby Hayes, chair and professor of the practice of journalism; and Dr. Nahed Eltantawy, interim dean of the School of Communication; are just a few who went above and beyond.”

How you used Career & Professional Development: “The Office of Career and Professional Development has helped me as I’ve met with me to review my resumes and cover letters.”

Advice for underclassmen: “Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Post your work, connect with people on LinkedIn, ask questions and apply even if you think you’re not qualified for it. You are prepared, even if you think you’re not.”

How HPU helped you get there: “HPU has been instrumental in equipping me with the necessary tools for launching my career. Not only have I gained essential knowledge through coursework, but I’ve also had the opportunity to explore new subjects and expand my horizons beyond my initial expectations. The supportive community fostered by HPU has been invaluable in preparing me for the dynamic and collaborative nature of professional environments. The mentorship and guidance provided by my professors have been pivotal in shaping my career aspirations and defining my path forward. Overall, HPU has provided me with a comprehensive skill set and a sturdy foundation to navigate the world of tomorrow.”

Most impactful mentor at HPU: “Dr. Davidshofer, associate professor of philosophy, stands out as my most impactful mentor at HPU. She introduced me to the realm of philosophy, fundamentally altering my worldview and influencing how I engage with the world around me. Her teaching style is exceptional; she possesses the remarkable ability to captivate her students during lectures, making the material resonate on a deeper level. Her lectures feel more like a story time rather than a typical lecture. Through her guidance, I’ve been exposed to captivating and thought-provoking concepts, often prompting me to re-evaluate my own beliefs and ideas.”

Most impactful moment at HPU: “My most impactful moment at HPU revolves around participating in the Presidential Scholars interviews. Each year, I had the opportunity to interview prospective students, providing me with valuable insights into the future student body of our university. Through this experience, I’ve witnessed significant personal growth, reflecting on my own journey and empathizing with the nervousness and excitement of those future students during interviews. It’s incredibly rewarding to meet these students early on and later see them thriving on campus. One particular candidate stands out in my memory; after interviewing her in the spring semester, she approached me the following fall semester to express that I played a pivotal role in her decision to choose our university. Knowing that I positively impacted someone’s college journey reaffirmed the meaningfulness of my involvement in the interview process.”

How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success? “When I walk to class, I always admire the beauty of HPU’s campus. It’s no secret that our campus is unlike most other universities, but I view it as a reminder to maintain a high standard for how I go about my daily life. I’ve always believed in the mindset that if you look and feel good, you’ll be good at what you’re doing. So, when I live in an environment like this, it’s hard not to be inspired to work harder. It’s like the surroundings are constantly nudging me to strive for excellence, and that mindset has played a tremendous role in my success here at HPU.”

What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success? “Among the various life skills I’ve honed at HPU, the most impactful one for long-term success is the ability to cultivate a strong network of individuals. The adage, “your network is your net worth,” may sound cliché, but I’ve discovered it does ring true. While possessing hard skills is valuable, the true power lies in the connections you forge and knowing how to utilize them. Building relationships with people from diverse backgrounds enhances your value in ways that technical skills alone cannot achieve.”

Advice for underclassmen: “My advice to underclassmen would be to embrace discomfort and pursue the seemingly impossible. During challenging times, when you feel like you’re barely keeping your head above water, you experience the most growth. Remain open to new experiences and dedicate time to reflect on them, as each one contributes to your personal and academic development. Always remember that your education is an investment in yourself, so make the most of every opportunity and embrace the journey.”

How HPU helped you get there: “HPU helped me to achieve my goals by developing my sense of agency and presenting me with opportunities I was well equipped for, thanks to the resources I’d been granted access to here. My professional goal is to become a lawyer. With large thanks to the holistic education and many leadership opportunities I have received here, I have been blessed to receive a Dean’s Fellowship to Washington University Law in St. Louis, the highest financial scholarship award offered by their institution. I believe my earning this scholarship was largely due to the leadership and academic curiosity I have developed here. I am very excited for what my future holds there and look forward to continuing to grow in a new space, holding onto the values and initiative I’ve learned here at HPU.”

Most impactful mentor at HPU: “My most impactful faculty mentor at HPU has been Dr. Mark Setzler, professor of political science and director of the international relations program. In my first class ever during freshman year at HPU, I had Contemporary Politics and Issues (PSC1010) at 9:15 am in Phillips Hall. It seemed that Dr. Setzler recognized the potential for wide-reaching leadership, academic scholarship and professional achievements in me before I even saw these things in myself. Since that first day of school as a quiet freshman, I have taken four classes with Dr. Setzler and worked as a student instructor for his courses for three semesters. He has not once failed to lead an engaging class, to strengthen my writing and research abilities, or to encourage me to reach for what seemed impossible. His mentorship has been invaluable, and I am so grateful to have met someone who believed in me so early on during my four years here.”

Most impactful moment at HPU: “My most impactful moment at HPU was delivering the convocation speech for the Class of 2027. Beginning my last year at my favorite place by welcoming a new class into their inspiring next four years was so sweet and rewarding. It permitted me an opportunity to reflect on my growth here and allowed me to encourage them to savor every moment.”

How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success? “I chose to come to HPU because I value a sense of community and knew that would be my top priority wherever I ended up attending. I was certain that I would stay focused on my grades and academic achievements, but I also knew that being in an extraordinary place with such caring people is what would truly set me up for success — professionally, academically, socially and personally. My peers, the faculty and staff here have all motivated me, inspired me and invested in my success, and I am so grateful for their role in taking me one step closer to achieving my goals.”

What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success? “HPU has helped me develop leadership skills, professional presentation and public speaking skills. In addition to that, HPU has offered me a strengthened ability to form interpersonal connections, a dedication to service and a prioritization of morals that have all prepared me for long-term success.”

What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation? “HPU’s campus has solidified in me a heart for service and selflessness, as well as a sense of drive and initiative when it comes to taking advantage of my opportunities.”

Advice for underclassmen: “Underclassmen can be successful after graduation by utilizing the network HPU has built and provided students. It is important to enjoy your time in college as it goes by so fast, but also take advantage of the resources and professionals HPU has to offer. They’ve been in your shoes before, and they want to help you succeed! If you feel like you’re struggling to reach your goals on your own, remember you’re not alone!”

How HPU helped you get there:

“HPU prepared me with all the skills I needed to land my first post-graduate job, which I was offered less than a month after graduating. I felt confident leaving HPU and stepping into the workforce because of the people, environment, resources and leadership at HPU. As a freshman, I quickly took advantage of the Office of Career and Professional Development to receive help creating my resume and cover letter.”

Most impactful mentor at HPU:

“I had many impactful mentors at HPU, including Larry Quinn, director of the Professional Selling Program and chair of the Department of Marketing and Sales. My interview with Professor Quinn during Presidential Scholars Weekend helped me decide to enroll at HPU. I had the privilege of taking Professor Quinn’s negotiations class during my final semester at HPU, and I used the strategies and tactics he taught to help me land my first post-graduate job.”

Most impactful moment at HPU:

“My most impactful moment at HPU was being a member of the HPU Dance Team for four years. It was an honor to be part of a group of women who represented HPU and showed their Panther Pride. I was blessed to lead our team as a captain for my last two years on the team. My teammates became my friends, and my coaches became my mentors. I know these relationships will last for a lifetime.”

How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success?

“The environment at HPU truly inspires and encourages everyone to be the best they can be. The small class sizes allow you to work closely with every professor and classmate, and the academic buildings resemble the environments you will see in the real world. At HPU, you can’t help but feel empowered to work hard and do extraordinary things.”

What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success?

“Some of the most valuable life skills HPU taught me are how to present myself professionally and communicate effectively with my peers. My classes taught me how to learn through experience, which is a skill that I use in my current work environment. Another important life skill I learned at HPU is how to sell myself. I completed mock interviews, elevator pitches and presentations, so I wasn’t nervous when interviewing for my post-graduate job.”

What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation?

“HPU taught me the value of dreaming big. HPU President Nido Qubein is a huge inspiration to me and is one of the best examples of someone who made their dreams a reality. I take this quote of his with me: ‘There are no unrealistic dreams, just unrealistic timelines.’”

Advice for underclassmen:

“Everyone says it, but it really is true—your four years at HPU will fly by! Get involved in every way you can. Join a club sport, go Greek, go to basketball games in the Qubein Arena, and help the surrounding community. You will want to leave HPU with no regrets and be able to look back on your memories and accomplishments with pride.”

How HPU helped you get there:

“HPU shaped me into an entrepreneur. HPU taught me valuable life skills and how to present myself professionally in the business world. I learned how to create a business, speak with investors and execute my vision. HPU’s fine-dining learning labs helped me feel confident when I had dinners with business professionals.”

Most impactful mentor at HPU:

“Kathryn Elliott, professor of the practice of entrepreneurship and director of the entrepreneurship program, was the most impactful mentor I met at HPU. She guided me in the right direction and was there for me when I needed help. JiNan Glasgow George, HPU’s Intellectual Property Expert in Residence and a member of HPU’s Access to Innovators Program, was a huge influence on my life. I am forever thankful for the industry professionals she introduced me to.”

Most impactful moment at HPU:

“My most impactful moment at HPU was participating in the Business Plan Competition. Every year, these competitions allowed me to practice my business pitch to real-world professionals and have the chance to win cash prizes for all of the hard work I put into starting my company as a student.”

How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success?

“HPU’s campus is so inspiring. When you are surrounded by people who want you to succeed, you will achieve great things. I enjoyed going to the Entrepreneurship Center and brainstorming ideas with the other entrepreneurship majors. We would spend hours focusing on how to grow and achieve our visions.”

What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation?

“HPU helped me realize how important God, family and country are in my everyday life. I learned life skills like how to dress professionally and the importance of being on time. Other schools skip over teaching students practical skills. These skills make a big difference.”

Advice for underclassmen:

“Believe in yourself and you will achieve your goals.”

How HPU helped you get there:

“HPU gave me the opportunity to connect and network with students and professors within a professional setting. I was also honored to receive many leadership roles that helped me understand my leadership style and how to lead within the corporate world. I also visited career advisors in the Office of Career and Professional Development who helped me create my resume and prepare for interviews.”

Most impactful moment at HPU:

“My most impactful experience at HPU was planning and volunteering for a Martin Luther King Jr. service event for the Business Fellows to help fight world hunger. It was amazing to see people come together to help others in need.”

What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation?

“Being a part of HPU’s MBA program increased my confidence in finding a job and allowed me to gain valuable business acumen.”

Advice for underclassmen:

“Look for opportunities you wouldn’t normally pursue. Put yourself in uncomfortable positions and see where they take you.”

How HPU helped you get there:

“HPU gave me a unique environment to learn and excel. The Natural Science Fellows Program within the Wanek School of Natural Sciences offered research and service opportunities, mentorship, professional travel trips and more. I was able to collaborate and form connections with classmates that I will carry into my future during and after medical school.”

Most impactful mentor at HPU:

“My most impactful mentor at HPU was Dr. Heather Ahrens, assistant professor of biology. She was not only my research mentor but also my introductory anatomy professor. Dr. Ahrens helped me stay on track to reach my goal of attending medical school, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to do research with her.”

Most impactful moment at HPU:

“My most impactful experience at HPU was taking the Advanced Anatomy course with Dr. James Pampush, associate professor of exercise science. In this course, I learned in-depth anatomy and worked with human cadavers in the lab. This was the most useful course I took at HPU, and I feel extremely confident in my anatomy experience for medical school.”

Advice for underclassmen:

“My advice for underclassmen going into the medical field is to work hard from the very beginning. It can be tempting to get distracted as an incoming freshman and let grades slip, but medical schools are extremely competitive, and it is crucial to keep your grades exceptional. There will be many opportunities for extracurricular activities, but sacrifices have to be made for a future in medical school.”

How HPU helped you get there:

“My time at High Point University has helped me achieve my goals in numerous ways. HPU makes alumni connections very easy and accessible. I was able to meet an alumnus who currently works for the Philadelphia Eagles, which gave me an edge and great talking points during the hiring process. In the classroom, professors offer insight and connect students with moguls in our industry. Professors genuinely care about students’ success. Outside the classroom, I utilized HPU’s opportunities for occupational experience by working for the basketball team. Working in the NFL directly after graduating is an accomplishment made possible, in part, by the hard-working individuals at HPU. I visited the Office of Career and Professional Development starting my freshman year for professional guidance.”

Most impactful mentor at HPU:

“The most impactful mentor I’ve had at HPU is Dr. Jenny Lukow, chair of the Sport, Event, and Hospitality Management Department. Dr. Lukow goes out of her way to ensure students’ success in class, their career and life. She is the most hard-working, caring, vibrant, fun and energetic educator I have ever met. I would regularly get emails from Dr. Lukow about opportunities to grow professionally. While every professor at HPU is incredible, Dr. Lukow goes above and beyond for everyone around her.”

Most impactful moment at HPU:

“My most impactful moment was being elected vice president of my fraternity. It was an incredible feeling to be voted into a position of leadership by your brothers around you. It meant they trusted me to work hard and make the right calls on behalf of the chapter. This was the moment I realized the impact I have on others around me.”

How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success?

“Knowing that 99% of students receive a job or participate in graduate school 180 days after graduating gave me the confidence I desired when applying for jobs. It shows employers that High Point University graduates mean business and are ready to work hard.”

What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success?

“HPU taught me how to network and make a lasting first impression. Learning how to market myself is also a skill I developed thanks to the numerous growth opportunities High Point University offered.”

Advice for underclassmen:

“Stack your resume with experience! Utilize the many amenities that campus has to offer such as the writing center, tutors and especially the Office of Career and Professional Development.”

How HPU helped you get there:

“HPU’s great research opportunities and one-on-one mentorship helped me get here. I also visited the Office of Career and Professional Development where career advisors helped me build my resume.”

Most impactful mentor at HPU:

“Jeffrey Regester, instructor of physics and astronomy, was my most impactful mentor at HPU. I worked with him for two semesters on research, and I learned a lot of engineering skills through hands-on work. He also helped me run HPU’s Rocketry Team and accomplish two certifications in the National Association of Rocketry.”

Most impactful moment at HPU:

“My most impactful moment was obtaining my level 2 rocketry certification through the National Association of Rocketry. I was part of HPU’s Rocketry Team and worked hard to build my rocket. Seeing it fly was extremely gratifying.”

How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success?

“HPU’s environment is always perfectly well-kept, and I try to apply that to my own presentation. I try to look my best and relate to people the best I can, no matter if it is a busy day or a stressful week.”

What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation?

“HPU taught me that it is not only important to be the best at what you do but that you need to sell yourself well.”

Advice for underclassmen:

“Be consistent and passionate in what you do. Take advantage of all the opportunities that college offers and make the most out of them.”

How HPU helped you get there:

“HPU’s small class sizes helped set me up for success and allowed me to connect with my professors one on one. I also visited career advisors in the Office of Career and Professional Development and attended professional development seminars that helped me decide the best path for me post-graduation.”

Most impactful mentor at HPU:

“My most impactful mentor at HPU was Dr. Erica Horhn, instructor of English. Since taking one of her classes my first semester at HPU, she intentionally made a point to check in on me throughout my time at HPU.”

Most impactful moment at HPU:

“My most impactful moments at HPU were while spending time at the weekly food trucks on campus. It was my way of rewarding myself when classes would get overwhelming and was the perfect reset for the week.”

How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success?

“HPU’s inspiring and open-door environment contributed to my success by allowing me to feel comfortable reaching out when I needed help.”

What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success?

“HPU helped me develop exceptional time management skills that I will take with me into my next chapter. Juggling classes, Army ROTC, and other clubs and organizations, gave me the skills that have prepared me for a fast-paced environment in graduate school.”

What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation?

“HPU instilled in me the value of treating others with kindness because you never know what someone is going through. Even the smallest act of kindness can brighten someone’s day.”

Advice for underclassmen:

“Do not be afraid to put yourself out there and try new things. HPU truly wants to see you succeed!”

How HPU helped you get there:

“At HPU, I was challenged academically, pushed outside of my comfort zone and encouraged to explore my passions. HPU’s commitment to experiential learning and the supportive faculty and staff prepared me for success. I utilized the Office of Career and Professional Development to help me explore different career paths and develop my professional skills. I am excited to apply the skills and knowledge I gained at HPU to my future career.”

Most impactful mentor at HPU:

“One of my most impactful mentors at HPU was Dr. Cynthia Hanson, associate professor of marketing. She influenced me both academically and personally. Her passion for marketing and commitment to helping students succeed is truly inspiring. She has a unique ability to connect with students and was always available to answer questions, provide guidance and offer feedback on assignments.”

Most impactful moment at HPU:

“One of my most impactful moments at HPU was when I was initiated into my sorority, Alpha Gamma Delta. Being surrounded by women who share similar values and interests allowed me to form meaningful friendships that will last beyond my time at college. My sorority provided me with numerous opportunities for personal growth and development, such as leadership positions, educational programs and the ability to participate in various philanthropic events.”

How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success?

“From the moment I stepped onto HPU’s campus, I was struck by the beauty and positive energy that emanated from every corner. HPU has created a culture of excellence and support that motivated me to work harder, strive to do my best and achieve my goals.”

What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success?

“HPU taught me the importance of effective communication, which is essential to any career. Through group projects, presentations and interactions with faculty and staff, I learned how to communicate clearly and effectively. In addition, HPU taught me the importance of adaptability and resilience. Through my experiences at HPU, I learned how to navigate change and uncertainty with perseverance and grace.”

What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation?

“One of the core values that HPU instilled in me is a commitment to excellence. HPU pushed me to strive for my personal best and to never settle for mediocrity. HPU also helped me develop a dedication to service. Through volunteer work and community projects, I learned the importance of giving back to others and using my talents to make a positive impact on the world. These values will continue to guide me as I embark on my professional career and work towards achieving my goals.”

Advice for underclassmen:

“Take advantage of all the opportunities HPU has to offer. Whether it’s participating in internships, joining clubs and organizations, or attending networking events, it’s important to start building your network early. Connect with alumni and seek out mentorship opportunities to build relationships with professionals in your desired field. The more you experience, the better equipped you will be to navigate the post-graduation job market.”

How HPU helped you get there:

“HPU’s positive environment and staff helped me get to where I am today. Before I applied for jobs, I visited HPU’s Office of Career and Professional Development to ensure my resume was the best it could be and to ensure I was putting my best foot forward.”

Most impactful mentor at HPU:

“Assistant Professors of Criminal Justice Margaret Chrusciel and Alec Szalewski are my most impactful mentors who I will never forget. Dr. Chrusciel was my academic advisor and my teacher for three years. She is so supportive and an amazing person. Dr. Szalewski will forever be one of my favorite teachers. No matter what you’re dealing with, he is always there for his students and wants the best for them academically and in life.”

Most impactful moment at HPU:

“My most impactful experience at HPU was taking President Nido Qubein’s First Year Seminar on Life Skills. Once a week, President Qubein teaches the freshman class about life skills, HPU, his life and how he became who he is today. And how can I forget about the song ‘Great Day’ he always played at the end of each class! Knowing that the president of my university takes the time to build that bond and connection with the freshman class is what makes HPU what it is today. I will always cherish that class and can proudly say that it made a positive mark on me.”

Advice for underclassmen:

“Go to all of the career fairs on campus and put yourself out there! You meet so many amazing people from companies and can have a professional headshot taken for your LinkedIn profile. I attended every career fair HPU held to get my name out there to companies, and whether it benefitted me job-wise or not, it helped me gain communication and interview skills.”

How HPU helped you get there:

“HPU helped me prepare for my future goals by providing me with great opportunities, such as the ability to network with companies and leaders, access to Success Coaches and classes taught by professors with real-world experience. I also used the Office of Career and Professional Development for help with my resumé and advice on how to find the best job for me.”

Most impactful mentor at HPU:

“My most impactful mentor at HPU has been Robert Tillman, a career advisor for the Phillips School of Business. He helped me navigate challenges and develop the skills and qualities I have today. He pushed and challenged me, which helped me grow and become a better person.”

How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success?

“HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to my success because creating such a positive and supportive atmosphere while setting high expectations made me want to strive to be better and reach my full potential.”

Advice for underclassmen:

“My advice for underclassmen is to meet as many people as you can; because it’s not what you know, it’s who you know.”

How HPU helped you get there:

“The Office of Career and Professional Development helped me perfect my resume which landed me a position with Cisco Technologies. HPU also provided rigorous and challenging courses that allowed me to have talking points during my interview process.”

Most impactful mentor at HPU:

“My most impactful mentor at HPU is David Bergen, professor of management and entrepreneurship in the Earl N. Phillips School of Business. He helped me hone my leadership skills and gave helpful advice on how to stand out in the interview process in my field.”

Most impactful moment at HPU:

“My most impactful moment would be when I was asked to participate in an internship panel on campus. I was able to share my experience working at Cisco Technologies as a digital growth marketing intern for the Americans sector with other students.”

How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success?

“HPU’s inspiring environment helped position me with like-minded individuals who also strive for success. Group and individual projects helped me build my communication and interpersonal skills as well. When it comes to the values and virtues at HPU that have made the most impact on me, the values of integrity and honesty are the most important to me.”

Advice for underclassmen:

“Take advantage of the many resources available to you on campus.”

How HPU helped you get there:

“When looking for a college, I wanted to attend a university that would help fuel my ambition and support me in reaching my goals. HPU has the resources, mentors and programs that help students sharpen their passions and aim for more. The Office of Career and Professional Development helped me navigate the current job market and gain the skills needed to excel in my job search and interviews. The countless trips to 1924 PRIME and Alo, HPU’s fine-dining learning labs, made me feel comfortable and relaxed in an otherwise high-pressure setting. I was able to differentiate myself from the other candidates by having the business acumen to understand the proper way to conduct myself over a meal.”

Most impactful mentor at HPU:

“My most impactful mentor is Mark Michael, assistant professor of marketing and assistant director of the Professional Selling Program. He makes sure all of his students are set up for success, both in and out of the classroom. Professor Michael spent hours helping me prepare for my case study interviews, reviewing my job search progress and providing invaluable advice and expertise.”

Most impactful moment at HPU:

“My most impactful moment at HPU was joining Alpha Kappa Psi, the professional business fraternity, during my freshman year. I was exposed to leaders, mentors and fellow students who have helped me grow professionally and personally. As Dr. Qubein says, ‘You are the sum of who you surround yourself with,’ and I could not think of a better group than the brothers of AKP. Serving in several leadership positions within this group allowed me to develop my leadership style and learn valuable skills that would later transfer to my professional experiences.”

How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success?

“The inspiring environment at HPU encouraged me to go after my goals. Whether hearing classical music on the promenade walking to and from class, having access to in-resident faculty who are leaders in their fields or seeing Ms. Valerie Baxter as you enter campus – the feeling that you have while on HPU’s campus is nothing short of inspiring. The professors are one of the biggest factors that contributed to my success at HPU. Having professors who care about you as a student and a person transforms your experience and contributes to the inspiring environment at HPU.”

What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success?

“High Point University prepares students for the world as it is going to be, not just for the world as it is now. We are taught life skills beginning our freshman year, and we carry those skills with us during our entire time in college and beyond. Some of the most beneficial life skills I learned while at HPU were networking, coachability and how to build a personal brand.”

What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation?

“HPU students recognize that they have to work hard for the things that they want, and that nothing will just be handed to them. I have been able to sharpen my ambition in a supportive environment where I have the resources to be successful. I will carry the value of personal initiative with me well beyond my graduation, recognizing that my success in my professional endeavors will stem from my own hard work, grit and determination.”

Advice for underclassmen:

“Get involved. Whether you join a club or Greek Life, get an on-campus job, attend a guest speaker seminar or have internships, expanding your network early is a key component to your success. The most successful students are those who get involved and take advantage of all of the resources that HPU has to offer.”

How HPU helped you get there: “At High Point University, I was blessed with many resources and connections that helped me get where I am today. HPU’s innovative environment required me to rise to the occasion and believe that anything is possible. Over the last four years, I have been involved in the Student Government Association, learning from those who were leaders on campus and brought new ideas. This inspiring environment is something that I will carry as I develop into the man I will be. High Point University is an institution that has made me dream about empowering those around me for what seems impossible. The Office of Career and Professional Development helped me develop a passion for what I really want to do in life. In the midst of looking for my next steps, they emphasized the importance of a clear, in-depth resume. They made sure my cover letter and resume were in sync. Students should visit The Office of Career and Professional Development often because they provide many resources for development, such as networking and internship opportunities, information, and hands-on experience.”

Most impactful mentor at HPU: “The last four years at HPU have been amazing but also challenged me. Whenever I needed someone to talk to and explore my next steps, Dr. David Bergen, professor of human relations and nonprofit studies, was there. Dr. Bergen has been a great influence and motivator. He made sure I analyzed every scenario before making a decision. When I shared with him my goal of going to Duke Divinity School, he lit up with so much excitement for me. Through the ups and downs at HPU, he was there. This is what HPU is all about. The people at this university truly care. I will never forget how he made me feel as a student and the belief he has for each person at HPU. ‘You got this, Al,’ has ​​catapulted me into my next journey.”

Most impactful moment at HPU: “I had some of the best moments of my life at High Point University, like meeting lifelong friends and creating memories every single day. While studying at HPU, I was heartbroken by the loss of my grandmother and father. At that moment, I did not want to continue my studies. But HPU was there through it all and made sure I had the support to continue on. Receiving calls from HPU President Dr. Qubein, counseling services speaking with me, professors reaching out weekly, the Office of Student Life continuously reaching out and peers motivating me was so impactful. It was at this moment I realized that HPU cares and loves their students! At my breaking point and lowest times, they were there to encourage me. I learned not to give in, but seek greatness in all you do as you press on. It has been my goal to first please God in all I do, and secondly make my grandmother and father proud. I will never forget how HPU was there for me and how it made me feel to be a part of this special family.”

What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success? “HPU allows every student to reach their highest potential. Some of the life skills HPU helped me develop are critical thinking, adapting a growth mindset and effective communication. In the First-Year Seminar of Life Skills, Dr. Qubein talked about the power of communication, and I still have the book written by him titled, ‘How to be a Great Communicator.’ Communication has been essential as I explore my goals, dreams, hopes and challenges. Having a growth mindset gave me the ability to think with a clear mind while learning new things. Long-term, these life skills will help me in any environment and are a solid foundation which I can continue to build on and grow.”

What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation? “High Point University is an institution that stands on honesty and integrity. Those are the values I will take on throughout my life and were the things I held close as a leader on campus. Whenever I am in the workforce or continuing my education, integrity will be key in new environments. I have valued HPU’s honest approach in all they do so every person has a clear understanding of what is happening. I believe that if I keep the values of honesty and integrity, my future will be bright!”

Advice for underclassmen: “I come to encourage you! Senior year is stressful — looking for internships, applying for jobs, searching for a place to live, looking at graduate schools and getting ready to step into the real world. During my sophomore year, I sat down to think about what life would be like after HPU. I wrote down goals and dreams I wanted to accomplish. So, my advice is to believe in your goals and dreams and write them down so you know what you want to achieve. If you believe something, walk in newness and know that it will happen. Everyday, before I get my day started, I proclaim and speak what has not occurred yet but I have the belief that it will. Allow yourself to measure your success by doing things you are passionate about.”

How HPU helped you get there: “HPU’s Honors Program provided a holistic approach to education — by challenging me to become proficient in multiple areas and allowing me to pursue disciplines outside of my chosen major. Additionally, throughout my journey over the past four years, the faculty and students at HPU supported and guided me in my professional endeavors.”

Most impactful mentor at HPU: “Dr. Kristin Ackerman, director for MS Biomedical Sciences, and assistant professor of medical sciences, has been a tremendous mentor to me. I took many classes with Dr. Ackerman, in addition to being a member of her research lab for the past four years. From my first class with Dr. Ackerman, I saw that she had a profound amount of respect for all of her students and was deeply concerned about their success on an academic and personal level. Dr. Ackerman was also transformational in showing me how I could take my experience in science to pursue a career in finance.”

Most impactful moment at HPU: “There was one particular moment in my class, The Cost and Value of Higher Education, that had the most influence on my life and career choice beyond graduation. The professor, Dr. Nathan Hedman, opened class by asking the question ‘What would you do for the rest of your life if you made a guaranteed $70,000 each year?’ My classmates and I answered the question with what job would make us happiest. My gut response was a career in finance — rather than being a doctor, which is what I had been pursuing for the past three years of college. This moment initiated a realization that maybe I should pursue what will make me most happy. From this point, I began to pivot away from science and to a career in finance.”

Advice for underclassmen: “My brother often tells me. ‘Ryan, be patient. We are all on our own journey.’ I would offer the same advice to underclassmen. It can be easy to look at your peers and see that they have a phenomenal internship lined up for the summer or that they have a 4.0 GPA and you do not. It can lead to us feeling inadequate or behind, causing anxiety. Of course, there are times when observing our peers can inspire us to become better students and better people; however, don’t allow comparison to get in the way of your own happiness and your own journey.”