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 at one extraordinary member of the Class of 2023:
Name: Brittney Ruud
Hometown: Boonton, New Jersey
Major: Psychology
Post-graduation plans: Ruud will attend Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Lynchburg, Virginia, to pursue a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree.
How HPU helped you get there:
“HPU allowed me to participate in a variety of undergraduate research, including material physics research with Dr. Briana Fiser, the chair and associate professor of physics; health psychology research with Dr. Kelly Curtis, associate professor of psychology, and an honors research project. Being a psychology major helped me create a well-rounded profile and become a competitive applicant. HPU offered numerous leadership opportunities for me as president of Alpha Chi Sigma, the chemistry fraternity, and as a chemistry tutor for three years. Advisors in the Office of Career and Professional Development helped me create my personal statement and CV. They met with me individually to help me present the best version of myself.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU:
“Dr. Kelly Curtis was my most impactful mentor. When I met her during my interview for Presidential Scholars Weekend, I was convinced I wanted to attend HPU and conduct research with her. In addition to researching with her, she was one of my advisors and taught multiple classes of mine. She was a helpful resource during my medical school application process.”
Most impactful moment at HPU:
“My most impactful moment was meeting my best friends my freshman year in Finch, the honors dorm. I am fortunate to say I have made lifelong friends at HPU. They encouraged me through the challenging process of applying to medical school.”
How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success?
“The environment at High Point University was beneficial during my studying, whether for class or for the MCAT. I was always able to find a quiet corner in a beautiful space to do my work and that encouraged me to study.”
What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success?
“HPU taught me how to present myself in a way that is professional. The fine-dining learning labs on campus helped me become comfortable in professional environments. I was also able to sharpen my skills by presenting numerous projects in class and at HPU’s Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium, High-PURCS. Being able to communicate research is a skill I will be able to use when I discuss diagnoses with patients.”
What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation?
“The ability to network is something I will take with me. HPU encourages students to get involved on LinkedIn early. From there, different networking workshops are beneficial for meeting people in your field. Through those networking opportunities, I found physicians to shadow and made job connections.”
Advice for underclassmen:
“To be successful after graduation, you have to try to be successful before graduation. That doesn’t mean that you cannot find fun in undergrad. Balancing work and play is an important skill to learn so you can be successful post-graduation.”
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