The College Tour at High Point University | Full Episode Part 2 | Watch HPU

Chapters & Transcript

0:00

Greetings everyone and welcome back to High Point University, the Princeton Reviews number one ranked best run college in the nation. This is actually the College Tour's second time visiting the premier life skills university. We couldn't fit it all in, so we had to come back for more.

Students from all over the world attend here because of the extraordinary education in an inspiring environment surrounded by caring people. Located in High Point, North Carolina, the furniture capital of the world, this institution offers unprecedented opportunities for HPU students to get real world experiences with a revitalized downtown social district. You'll never run out of things to do on or off-campus.

This nationally ranked private university focused on student outcomes is a perfect blend of Ivy League level academics and a vibrant student life experience that's filled with unforgettable moments. I'm your host Alex Boand, and over the next half hour, we'll take you around HPU and hear stories from students and alumni who will show us what being a panther is all about. Welcome to High Point University. This is the College Tour.

1:31

Did you know that in college students eat more than 3,400 meals? So dining should be an important aspect. Meet Anthony, a senior from New York. HPU takes college food to the next level, earning recognition as the number one dining experience for 13 consecutive years. It's gotten the attention of students and famed foodie influencers. Anthony, let's dig in.

Thanks Alex. Hey everyone. As soon as I stepped on this campus I could see myself thriving in this environment. The academics are stellar, which is really important to me, but I recognize that while yes you'll be working hard and studying hard, college is a place where you'll be living, and living means eating. So HPU's food was the cherry on top.

HPU has over 20 dining locations offering a wide variety of options. Grab your morning coffee from one of six places on campus. Stop for a breakfast omelet served up by Miss Christy in the Caf, or stop by our complimentary grab and go kiosks on the way to class. For lunch, enjoy one of our all you can eat locations or build your own Mediterranean experience in our beautiful Butterfly Cafe, and top off that meal with the best gelato you've ever had.

Meet up with friends at our free weekly food trucks, and for dinner, imagine getting dressed up for a fine dining experience at one of our three fine dining learning labs: 1924 Prime, Kazoku, or Aloe. These restaurants not only offer unique and delicious fine dining experiences, but as you dine, you're taught proper dining etiquette so that way you'll be comfortable dining in similar settings such as future interviews or business deals over a meal. It's all a part of HPU's life skills learning model, and yes, it's all a part of your meal plan.

My go-to dining locations are found in our newest living community, Panther Commons. We have a pizza shop, burrito spot, a brunch place, and Kazoku, our new Hibachi restaurant. HPU understands that college food isn't something you should endure but enjoy. Join me for a meal next time you're on campus. Back to you.

Alex, Anthony, we need one of everything! How cool is it that HPU has crafted a recipe for success in and out of the classroom, offering unique opportunities to dine and learn in ways that help students in the real world? Thanks again.

4:02

Anthony, meet CJ, a sophomore studying sports journalism from North Carolina. At HPU, experiential learning is a pillar of the university's educational model. It's about stepping beyond the textbook and learning through practice, so students are prepared for the situations they'll face in their career. By graduation, they have the experience of a seasoned pro. CJ, you're up.

Thanks Alex. Hi everyone. I wanted a college where I could dive into hands-on work right away, and HPU provided that more than any other school I visited. Classrooms at HPU are unique and small. Unlike bigger schools, we don't have 500 seat lecture halls where professors never know your name. Instead, you'll be in real world settings with professors who bring practical experience.

For instance, I take classes in our cutting edge TV studio, learning from Professor Joe Michaels, who directed the Today Show for 22 years. But that's just one example. You might find yourself in our trading room or biomechanics lab doing research as a freshman. Our surrounding city of High Point is the furniture capital of the world. Students majoring in everything from interior design to marketing and business gain experience and connections during the biannual Furniture Market.

The best part? You won't have to wait until your senior year to get hands-on experience. You'll start right away. During my freshman year, I visited the Dallas Mavericks headquarters as part of an annual trip HPU arranges for students, and shadowed Maverick CEO Cynt Marshall, who serves as sports executive and resident at HPU. She regularly visits campus to mentor and connect with students. In Dallas, we connected with executives, explored career opportunities, and even attended a game.

None of my friends at other schools were doing stuff like this their freshman year, and my parents loved that I was building my professional network so early. All of these experiences are meant to prepare you for the real world. HPU has given me the confidence to face industry challenges head-on, and I know the hands-on learning will be the key to landing my dream job. Back to you.

Alex, CJ, you're ready for the real world. It's no wonder 99 percent of HPU students have jobs or further their education within 6 months of graduating. Students have entire portfolios of projects and experiences to display when their four years are finished, making them ideal candidates for employers. Thanks again, CJ. That was awesome.

6:34

Meet Lauren, a junior from Maryland and a member of the Alpha Gamma Delta sorority, here to tell us what it means to go Greek. More than one-third of students are involved in Greek life here with a total of 18 national fraternities and sororities, ranging from social to academic and service fraternities. At HPU, you are certain to find your home. Take it away, Lauren.

Thanks Alex. I'm not exaggerating when I say joining Greek life at HPU has been life-changing for me. I've met my best friends, made unforgettable memories, and have had incredible experiences. I rushed as a freshman and have loved every moment. Greek life fosters a close-knit community within the campus. Each chapter has a service component teaching the importance of giving back to both local and global communities.

Each organization supports a philanthropy, raising thousands of dollars towards their cause. For example, Kappa Alpha Order, one of our fraternities, established a national organization that raises funds to present track chairs to disabled veterans at our annual Veterans Day celebration. And now more than 70 chapters across the country have adopted this philanthropy.

We have an amazing Greek Village with houses for each organization where members live, hang out, and host events. There's even a pool exclusively for Greek members. Freshman can rush during the first semester of their freshman year. You visit all organizations to find the best fit for you. Then the most important day comes: bid day. It's a day to celebrate our newest members. Everyone has a fun theme and a big celebration, and that's just the start.

I look forward to our formal events and Greek week, where you're paired up with other Greek organizations and have a friendly competition through service events and athletics. It's one of the most popular events in Greek life and brings everyone together for a fun time. Being in my sorority has also given me additional leadership opportunities, equipping me with skills I'll take to the workforce. Joining Greek life at HPU will be one of your best decisions. It's not just a sisterhood or brotherhood for 4 years. It's a new family that will support you for life. Back to you.

Alex, Lauren, sounds like Greek life has had such a positive impact on you and many others at HPU. Getting involved in philanthropy, making friends, and having fun enables you to become deeply connected to the campus and create unbreakable bonds. What a special experience. Thanks, Lauren.

9:09

Meet Annie, a 2024 alum who works with the NBA's Brooklyn Nets. If you saw HPU's first episode, you'd remember that HPU is focused on you, the student. Focused on outcomes. Getting you that dream job and connecting you to industry-leading companies. Annie, tell us how HPU provides students the tools to land internships that set them up for success. Take it away.

Thanks Alex. When touring colleges, internships might not be the first thing on your mind as a high schooler, but I promise they're crucial to landing your dream job. I chose HPU for its commitment to helping students land top tier networking, and my parents appreciated the internship guarantee program. A job with the NBA was my dream, and HPU made that possible.

A group of students and I traveled to the Dallas Mavericks headquarters to shadow CEO of the Mavs Cynt Marshall. She's HPU's sports executive and resident, and frequently visits campus to mentor students. While in Dallas, we connected with executives, explored our dream careers, and attended a game to complete the experience. This unique trip is just one example of the many student-focused opportunities HPU offers each year.

Cohorts of students participate in externships in cities like New York and Washington DC, where they engage with companies like the NFL, Ralph Lauren, The Today Show, and JP Morgan. Additionally, HPU sends its students to the Masters each year, gaining hands-on experiences in sales, event planning, and catering. At HPU, you are guaranteed an internship. The career and professional development office is dedicated to helping students succeed, offering personalized support with resume building, interview practice, and even guidance on how to dress to impress.

The annual career and internship expo brings more than 100 companies to campus, all eager to hire HPU students. Plus, you can get complimentary professional head shots taken, ensuring you're ready to make a strong impression in the professional world. I wouldn't be where I am today without HPU. They turn my dreams into reality, and I'm deeply thankful for the abundance of opportunities and unwavering support they provided, not just for me, but for everyone's professional growth. Back to you.

Alex, Annie, you took advantage of everything offered to you and turned it into the start of a successful career. HPU propels its students to new levels and opportunities like those that make them stand out to employers. HPU is nationally ranked in the top 10 for career services, and it's obvious why. Thanks again.

11:59

Meet Kendall, a junior studying psychology and dance. HPU is ranked in the nation's top 50 for first experiences by the US News and World Report. With 168 hours in a week, you spend about 20 in class. What about the rest of your time? HPU puts emphasis on wellness and recreation, ensuring you can relax and have fun. Kendall, tell us more.

Thanks Alex. Hi everyone. Your college experience extends beyond academics. HPU cares about you, and that means your health and wellness both in and out of the classroom. After a hard day of work, treat yourself to a campus spa day. Because here, you can really do it on campus. You can find your zen and your fun. Daily, you can get your sweat on in our spin studio, get your nails done, enjoy movies and arcade nights, spend time at one of our seven pools, or relax by fire pits.

As a certified fitness instructor on campus, I teach classes in yoga and step cardio. Rec services offer 40 plus weekly classes in cycling, dance, muscle conditioning, and so much more, all led by students. For self-care, you can go to the campus hair or nail salon at Panther Commons, one of our three student centers. Each center offers dining, fitness centers, and plenty of ways to relax, all on campus.

Each year is filled with fun events like our student concert where we've had artists like Flo Rida, T Pain, J. Cole, Jason Derulo, and more. There are so many other events just like that for you to have fun and make new memories, and you can't get that anywhere else. Intense academics are balanced with ample opportunities to help you unwind and take care of your physical and mental well-being.

Freshman year can be overwhelming with new workloads and social adjustments, but HPU helps ease the transition. You'll have a success coach to guide you and help with class choices, major selection, and campus connections. They'll assist you in finding clubs, events, and ways to meet new people. HPU values both classroom learning and time outside of it, which allows you to learn, live, and love your college experience. Back to you Alex.

Wow, Kendall, that sounds amazing. It's so important to have a balanced lifestyle in college. Transitioning into college is a huge step, and it's great to know HPU has systems in place to make it easier for you. Thanks again, Kendall.

14:46

Meet Cosmo, a 2024 alum and current law student. HPU is known as one of the most innovative schools in the country. They're ranked number one by US News and World Report for being the most innovative campus for 10 consecutive years. Their investment in innovation goes beyond the undergraduate level, creating some of the most impressive graduate programs you will find. Cosmo, tell us more.

Thanks Alex. HPU is a part of my family, not only because I attended HPU, but so did my three siblings. When it was my time to pick a school, I thought beyond my first four years. HPU's dedication to producing both extraordinary undergrad and graduate programs is why many students come here. I entered as a business major, always knowing that law school was my ultimate goal.

I was well prepared in undergrad to achieve my law school dream, and deciding where I wanted to go was easy because, well, it's here. That's right. I was accepted to our Kenneth F. Cone School of Law, and I chose to stay right here where my family has come to call home. But beyond that at home feeling, I knew the experience I gained in undergrad that shaped me into the well-rounded person I am today would carry over into my law education.

So here I am, continuing my journey at a place where I have great rapport with faculty and plenty of familiarity with the state-of-the-art facilities. HPU has created some of the most prolific graduate and doctorate programs you'll find. In addition to our law school, we have schools of dental medicine, optometry, pharmacy, and programs in physician assistant studies, nursing, business, physical therapy, education, and even more. Each with a rigorous curriculum and an emphasis on experiential learning that continues to stimulate real world scenarios.

For example, I've spent a lot of time in our mock courtroom getting practice for my postgrad environment, or you'll find me in our pro bono law clinic working with veterans on real legal matters. I look forward to leading a successful career in law, and I wouldn't want my time in school to be anywhere else other than HPU. Back to you.

Alex, we are blown away. You were so right. The investment HPU makes in your education is unprecedented, offering not only impressive undergraduate education but innovative postgraduate opportunities as well. HPU's academic shine yet again and continues to produce stellar grads on all levels. Thanks, Cosmo.

17:40

Meet Garrett, a senior from New Jersey and a member of HPU's club hockey team. HPU's club sports compete at the national level with more than 30 teams in a variety of sports. Nearly 1,000 students are involved. It's an excellent way to join a close-knit group of friends, grow as athletes, and achieve a common goal. Garrett, you're up.

Thanks Alex. Are you involved in high school sports right now and aren't really ready to give that up? Or maybe you don't want to compete at the Division One level but still want to travel for competition? Maybe you're looking to explore new passions. Well, I have the solution for you: club sports. Club sports is a great way to stay active, have fun, make friends, and continue your athletic career.

There are so many club sports options here at HPU in both men's and women's. There's hockey, lacrosse, baseball, equestrian, esports. There's just too many to list. Each sport is different, but you'll generally have a few practices during the week, and throughout the year, compete against other colleges. You even get to travel as a team for tournaments or games, so you'll definitely find that competitive environment that you're looking for.

Many of our teams are nationally ranked and have competed on the biggest stages for their respective club sports. I've been a member of our club hockey team since my freshman year, and I've made so many friends. Our team has been pretty successful. Like last year, we won our conference championship, made it all the way to the final four at D2 Nationals, so we made national headlines and even took home some hardware.

I've even been able to take my passion for sports beyond the ice. As a sports media major here at High Point, I had the opportunity to host a live pregame show on ESPNU for one of our men's basketball games. It was a great experience for me to put to the test what I've been learning. High Point University showed me that my passions in high school don't have to end there. So whether you're an experienced athlete looking for a high level of competition or a beginner looking to learn a new sport and make friends along the way, High Point University club sports has a place for you. Passing it back to you.

Alex, sounds like club sports have allowed you to enjoy your college experience to the fullest by doing something you love outside of the classroom. Not to mention all the friendships. Club sports are one of the most sought after activities by incoming students, and High Point University has plenty to join. Thanks again, Garrett. That was a great story.

20:10

Meet Carly, a senior involved in many organizations, but the ones most special to her are the ones rooted in faith. High Point University proudly displays its values of God, family, and country. They welcome students and families from all backgrounds. Carly, please tell us more about what these values mean and why faith plays such a big part. Please take it away.

Thanks Alex. High Point University's commitment to God, family, and country played a significant role in my decision to attend. Faith has always been the center of my life, and I knew that at High Point University, I would find a community that supports and nurtures my faith throughout college and beyond. The supportive environment here has allowed me to dive deeper into my faith, applying it to both my academic pursuits and my relationships, making my time here truly meaningful and fulfilling.

I'm highly involved on campus, from Greek life and dance team to campus jobs and academic fellowships. It's no different when it comes to my faith, where I'm involved in student ministry on campus. High Point University offers a wide range of faith-based activities and organizations such as retreats, Bible studies, campus outreach, and even connections with local churches. There are optional weekly events like Wednesday Chapel Services, Sunday evening worship, Thursday mass, and small breakout groups that provide opportunities for deeper spiritual engagement.

Faith is a major draw for many students choosing High Point University as the university fosters an environment where spiritual growth is encouraged and supported. But let me be clear: you do not have to be rooted in faith to attend High Point University, nor would you feel like an outcast. We respect everyone's values and beliefs. But if you prioritize faith, High Point University offers a community that shares similar values and provides resources to nurture spiritual development.

There are several events, traditions, and services to take part in, such as all of High Point University's Christmas celebrations, Veterans Day, and more. This integration of faith into daily life, whether in academics or extracurricular activities, allows students to grow holistically, encompassing intellectual, emotional, and spiritual development. This strong foundation in faith is a key reason why many students choose High Point University, ensuring that their education aligns with their personal beliefs and values. Back to you.

Alex, finding a school that accurately aligns with the values you grew up with is so important. High Point University allows students the opportunity to find exactly that: places to find their people, ways to participate, and traditions that will make an impact. Thanks, Carly.

22:44

Meet Rowan, a junior from Colorado studying English and law. High Point University cares so much about their students that they've created the campus concierge to answer any and all questions and provide an incredible list of services you will not find anywhere else. Once again setting the precedent for how things should be done at a university. Rowan, please tell us more. It's just in there. Thanks for the warm welcome, Alex.

I always knew I wanted to attend college out of state, but I wasn't sure where. I chose High Point University even though it is a thousand miles away from home. And speaking of warm welcomes, High Point University offers a unique concierge year-round service that makes every student feel like High Point University is their home away from home. Not only have I utilized High Point University's campus concierge when I need assistance, I actually work as a student concierge.

I help improve the daily lives of students, parents, faculty, and community members by providing a central source of knowledge about the university. With 80 percent out of state students like myself, travel plans for university breaks may sound stressful, but our concierge service offers free shuttle rides to and from major airports in North Carolina. We also provide complimentary car checks for students driving home. Technicians come to campus to ensure your car is road ready before you leave. It's a reflection of High Point University's caring culture.

What about your birthday? Your parents are away, so what happens? We hand deliver personalized birthday cards complete with a gift for a coffee on us. You may be far from home, but at High Point University, you're never far from family. And if your parents want to surprise you on Valentine's Day, our staff delivers hundreds of flower arrangements around campus.

We provide around the clock service, and you can reach us digitally too. Our parents can join a special Facebook group where they are assisted by our team within minutes. All of these services are designed to provide guidance, information, and reassurance. College doesn't have to be stressful. At HPU, we have systems in place to ensure that you're cared for, a comfort that both students and parents enjoy. I'm proud to serve as a dedicated member of our caring campus community. Back to you.

Alex, that is so amazing. As a student, it's great to know there's an entire team dedicated to helping you when needed. And as a parent, it really puts your mind at ease. At HPU, home is not a place, it's people, and HPU's concierge is setting the example. Thanks, Rowan.

25:31

Meet Jody, a 2015 alumna who is now the deputy news director at Rolling Stone. Jody is one of the many outstanding alums who have gone on to lead successful careers. She's going to tell us how she and so many others have been impacted by HPU's mentorship and professional growth opportunities. Jody, you're up.

Thanks Alex. HPU stood out to me for so many reasons. After my visit, I told my parents I was applying early decision because I just knew High Point was the place for me. Reflecting now as an alum, I'm so proud of that decision and the journey it set me on. Mentorship is a key to success, and that's something that HPU truly understands. They know how crucial it is to have somebody guiding you along the way, offering you advice, support, and encouragement.

For me, it was Dr. Bobby Hayes of HPU's school of communication who took me under his wing and helped me get experience with the Society of Professional Journalists. He gave me invaluable one-on-one guidance, and I learned so much about my trade from his stories of when he was a journalist. When I interviewed Leonardo DiCaprio at the Toronto International Film Festival, I sent Dr. Hayes an email after, thanking him for everything he'd done for me, because I knew it was his mentorship that helped prepare me for that moment.

While at HPU, I also interned at Seventeen magazine, and it was that experience paired with my opportunities on campus that helped me land my first job at People magazine, which eventually led me to my current role as the deputy news director of Rolling Stone. This is just my story, but make no mistake, there are thousands more HPU alums just like me who have landed their dream jobs or made successful careers at some of the largest companies in the world. And they too would credit the mentorship and the resources on campus with helping them get there.

We frequently come back to HPU to mentor students and impart our wisdom. Back in high school, I would have never believed that I'd be living in New York City and working for Rolling Stone magazine. I honestly doubted that I had what it took to make it in the fast-paced world of journalism. But HPU helped prepare me for this industry and lifestyle, giving me not only the skills I needed but the confidence I needed to succeed. Back to you.

Alex, what an incredible story, Jody. You really cannot underestimate the impact of mentorship, and that's probably why there are countless other stories just like yours coming out of HPU. We'll see you on the red carpets, Jody. Thanks again.

28:07

Okay everyone, we think it's safe to say this place is extraordinary. HPU is changing the game as an innovator of higher education. From the facilities you will learn in to the experiences you get on top, you'll make lifetime friends, have unforgettable memories, and graduate not only with a degree but equipped with the knowledge and life skills to lead your life of success and significance and make an impact on the world.

Please come see HPU for yourself, and you'll discover you're destined to be here, to rise above, and choose to be extraordinary. We'll see you on campus real soon, everyone. Take care.

The College Tour returns to High Point University to showcase why students choose this premier life skills institution. The episode features student perspectives on dining excellence, experiential learning, Greek life, career success through internships and mentorship, wellness programs, innovative graduate programs, club sports, faith-based community, concierge services, and alumni career outcomes. HPU's comprehensive approach combines Ivy League academics with vibrant student life, preparing graduates to achieve success and significance.

The College Tour at High Point University – Full Episode Part 2

The College Tour at High Point University – Full Episode Part 2

What makes High Point University extraordinary?

What is the dining experience like at HPU?

How do HPU students gain real-world experience?

What is Greek Life like at High Point University?

How does HPU prepare students for career success?

How does High Point University support student wellness?

What graduate degree programs are offered at HPU?

What club sports are offered at High Point University?

How does HPU support student faith and values?

What services does the HPU Campus Concierge provide?

How does HPU mentorship impact alumni career outcomes?

Why choose to attend High Point University?