With another successful commencement behind us, recent High Point University graduates are preparing to commence prestigious career paths around the world at Fortune 500 companies, international service programs, public school systems, top-tier law, medical and graduate school programs, and many other esteemed organizations thanks to their journey at HPU. Here’s a glimpse of one extraordinary senior from the Class of 2016:
Name: Nick Palmer
Hometown: Mooresville, North Carolina
Major: Palmer graduated with a B.S.B.A. in Business Administration, with minors in Economics and Marketing, on May 7.
Post-graduation plans: Palmer accepted a position as a Merchandising Trainee with the corporate office of Dick’s Sporting Goods in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The year-long Merchandising Trainee Program is a rotational career development program that explores nearly all aspects of the business. After the year, Palmer will continue advancing through the company with an in-depth knowledge of the company.
How HPU helped you get there: “I truly believe that the most valuable attribute of HPU is the holistic learning. Not only does High Point instill the idea within each student that they can achieve their dreams, but HPU also builds the confidence needed to actually go out into the real world and make your dreams a reality. Before HPU, I was an outgoing individual; however, I lacked the confidence needed to excel in my desired field. After countless opportunities with campus leadership positions, and four internships throughout my tenure at HPU, I was able to graduate with something intangible, but something with an indescribable value – confidence and experience.
I also had a few meetings with Career and Professional Development. They told me to make sure I make the most out of my network – both through past internships as well as alumni. I got many interviews through the use of professional connections through my internships – even another offer – but I chose the best offer I had, which was Dick’s Sporting Goods. I got the interview through an alumnus with whom I worked as a University Ambassador.“
Most impactful mentor at HPU: “Dr. Joseph Blosser. This man is an incredible leader within the campus community, the community of High Point, and more importantly, the religious community. I first met Dr. Blosser as a second semester freshman in his religion class. His class was difficult, but he challenged each of us to rise to the occasion. His tests, quizzes and papers may not have been easy, but at the end of it, in his words, ‘you will learn… a lot!’ After enjoying his class and ultimately using him as a resource for things besides his class, Dr. Blosser hired me as his head research assistant in an ethics study that he was conducting with the High Point Chamber of Commerce. This was an incredible learning experience for me as I got to take a leadership position within the study, and even got to manage a class of my peers. This was sophomore year, and I continued to communicate with Dr. Blosser throughout my time at HPU, seeking his advice and his prayers, and ultimately had the chance to work with him again my senior year as his head research assistant in another study. He also got me an internship within the High Point community. Dr. Blosser was truly a blessing to come across.
On top of this, two people who changed my entire time at HPU are Laney Morris and Sally Farrar – who work in admissions. I truly believe these two people are one of High Point University’s finest assets. They are the first faces you see when you come tour HPU. They make you want to be extraordinary.”
Most impactful moment at HPU: “This happened within the first two weeks at High Point as a freshman. By pure chance, I ended up on the same floor as four other freshmen who would end up being my best friends from the very start. Within a few weeks at HPU we were already best friends, and we remained that way through freshman year. We then signed up to all live in the same Centennial house together, where we remained best friends throughout our time at HPU. We were all competitive and continually pushing each other to reach our goals, and usually surpass them. Around sophomore year we coined the term, ‘The Blessing 5‘ as we had all lived together and met each other in Blessing Hall. The five of us will certainly be life long friends.”
Advice for underclassmen: “Carpe diem. Seize every opportunity that comes across your path. Opportunities are boundless at HPU. The successful students and graduates are those who not only take every opportunity that comes their way, but also seek them out. At one point I found myself with three jobs and a member of five clubs – while this was not easy, it sharpened many skills. Internships are also important. It was not easy giving up my entire summer vacation every year to full-time internships, but it pays off in terms of life experience, work experience and building your professional network.“