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: Amanda Small
Hometown: Litchfield, Connecticut
Major: Marketing with minors in sales and social media marketing
Post-graduation plans: Small joins The Urgent Care as a digital marketing manager in New Orleans, Louisiana, where she is responsible for developing and executing comprehensive digital marketing strategies and campaigns. She works to reach target audiences effectively and conducts market research and analysis.
How HPU helped you get there:
“HPU transformed me into the person I am today. I came from a small town where I was unsure of myself and what I wanted to do with the rest of my life. Staff in the Office of Career and Professional Development helped me review my resume, build my LinkedIn profile and prepared me for career fairs. The support from my professors, mentors, friends and the HPU community helped me achieve my goals by inspiring me to be my best self in everything that I do.”
Most impactful mentor at HPU:
“My most impactful mentors at HPU were Larry Quinn, director of the Professional Selling Program and chair of the department of marketing and sales, and Ginger Moore, professor of the practice of marketing and sales. I am thankful to them for encouraging me to step outside of my comfort zone and teaching me the importance of self-advocacy. I would not be the person I am today without their support and mentorship.”
Most impactful moment at HPU:
“My most impactful moment at HPU was when I presented a personal pitch to a room full of job recruiters during a sales class with Professor Quinn. Although I was extremely nervous at first, Professor Quinn instilled confidence in me and helped me realize I had what it takes to sell myself in a unique way. I applied what I learned in his class during interviews, and his lessons helped me land the job I have today.”
How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success?
“HPU’s environment inspired me to chart my own path to success. With the beautiful campus, kind staff members and fellow driven students, it is hard not to want to succeed!”
What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success?
“I used to be petrified of public speaking, but HPU’s business classes challenged me to overcome my fear. The assignments in my business communication class with Bridget Holcombe, director of career education and professor of the practice of career and business communications, transformed me into an experienced presenter. I also learned so much about proper business etiquette and developed other essential life skills.”
What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation?
“During the First-Year Seminar on Life Skills with President Qubein, I had to write down my three core values. These are the principles, standards and qualities that are most important to you and guide you in your everyday life. I chose independence, friendship and honesty as my core values. I upheld these values at HPU, and I will carry them with me for the rest of my life.”
Advice for underclassmen:
“My advice to underclassmen is to truly be present during your time at HPU—four years go by incredibly fast. Say yes to more things, step outside of your comfort zone and cherish the relationships you develop with your peers. Never take your time on campus for granted.”
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