Here’s a quick glimpse at one of many impressive outcomes HPU graduates achieve.
Name: Kaylin LaFleche, Class of 2024
Hometown: Severna Park, Maryland
Major: Interior design
Post-graduation plans: LaFleche will join Bignell Watkins Hasser Architects in Annapolis, Maryland, as an interior designer, where she will participate in the design process, develop space planning concepts, produce accurate digital plans and prepare design presentations.
How HPU helped you get there:
“The interior design department at HPU instilled in me the knowledge and confidence required for me to transition to a full-time position. I learned the software, codes and general knowledge necessary to be an interior designer beginning on day one of my time here at HPU. My professors not only helped me complete the requirements for my degree, but they went above and beyond by providing me with references and encouraging me to achieve anything I put my mind to. The Office of Career and Professional Development helped me secure my internship during my junior year. They gave me interview tips and reviewed my resume. I am very grateful for their help!”
Most impactful mentor at HPU:
“My most impactful mentor at HPU is Brandon Jones, instructor of home furnishings and interior design. Professor Jones cares about his students’ success both inside and outside of the classroom. Having him as a professor has improved my confidence as a designer and made me ready to enter the workforce following graduation. Professor Jones has written me numerous references and was always a friendly face around campus. I would not be where I am today without Professor Jones as my mentor.”
Most impactful moment at HPU:
“My most impactful moment at HPU was working at the High Point Furniture Market. Not only did it allow me to gain more relevant experience on my resume, but it also allowed me to network with designers. I worked at the Furniture Market four times, and each year I gained more knowledge directly related to my future career. I am very grateful for this opportunity.”
How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success?
“HPU’s inspiring environment helped me develop the confidence to dream big! Nothing is out of reach if you truly want it. Seeing all the HPU alumni obtain immense success immediately after graduation has allowed me to push myself and go after what I want.”
What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success?
“The Office of Career and Professional Development not only provided me with a list of companies that HPU students have worked for, which ultimately led me to one of my internships, but also gave me interview tips that I still use today. HPU prepared me by teaching me that I have to believe in myself. Help is given to those who ask for it, and if you really want something, you will go after it yourself.”
What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation?
“HPU’s value of family is one that I cultivated during my time here. Going to a college six hours away from my family and friends was daunting, but HPU encouraged me to build my own family here. After four years, I can confidently say that I have found not just friends, but a family at HPU. I will forever consider HPU my home.”
Advice for underclassmen:
“Get involved! You have the power to change your future. If I wasn’t involved in extracurriculars, I wouldn’t be the person or designer I am today. Every company that I interviewed with was impressed with my involvement outside of the classroom, and I truly believe that contributed toward my success.”
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