HPU graduates are leading 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 2022:
Name: Grace Crockett
Hometown: St. Louis, Missouri
Major: M.A. communication and business leadership
Post-graduation plans: Crockett joins Ernst & Young as a technology consultant in Charlotte, North Carolina. In this role, she will work on a project base with other Fortune 500 companies to deliver long-term value to clients by applying technology and data methods, including software engineering, cybersecurity and more.
How HPU helped you get there: “My new role is based on problem solving in complex situations, and HPU prepared me to think quickly and logically. The Office of Career and Professional Development helped me figure out what I wanted to do and find internship opportunities. Their team also helped me tailor my resume for each application and celebrated my victories when I got a position I fought for.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU: “Dr. Will Suchan was an incredible mentor, especially during the process of landing my job. His classes challenged me to think outside the realm of possibility to find solutions. I am grateful for the lessons I learned from him and continue to apply them to my career and life.”
Most impactful moment at HPU: “My most impactful moment at HPU was the night of my second interview round for Ernst & Young, which was also during midterms. As I waited for my virtual interview to begin at 11 p.m. in a room on campus, an HPU staff member gave me water and snacks without me asking or saying anything. Then, she came back and asked if I needed anything else because I looked stressed and in need of encouragement. That interaction sums up my entire HPU experience — having someone I’d never met go out of their way to help me succeed. That moment truly embodied HPU’s inspiring environment with caring people.”
What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success? “Critical thinking, handling criticism, kindness and compassion are life skills modeled on HPU’s campus and one that prepared me for long-term success. These skills led me to success in internships, professional roles and my personal life.”
Advice for underclassmen: “Let them say no. Never say no for a company or an opportunity because you might miss out on the opportunity of a lifetime. The worst anyone can tell you is ‘no.’ I got my position with Ernst & Young after applying for another job in the company they denied me for. 24 hours later, I got a call back saying they wanted me to look into my current position, which is more advanced and reputable. Now, I have my dream job.”
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