Here’s a quick glimpse at one of many impressive outcomes HPU graduates achieve.
Name: Catherine Hourihan, Class of 2026
Hometown: Walpole, Massachusetts
Major: Sales; minor in entrepreneurship
Internship plans: Catherine was a sales marketing intern in Boston, Massachusetts, for the WCVB Boston News Channel 5. Her responsibilities included creating sales promotional materials, managing client mailings, making cold calls, participating in weekly sales meetings, enhancing B2B selling skills, presenting ideas, as well as assisting with and shadowing on-air production commercials and live TV broadcasts.
How HPU helped you get there: “HPU significantly assisted me with the interview process, from advising on appropriate attire to professionally answering questions. Specifically, April Cosner, instructor of marketing in HPU’s Phillips School of Business, conducted a mock interview with me and provided valuable pointers and support. Additionally, presenting in business and communication classes helped me become comfortable and confident both in front of the camera and with sales pitches.”
What has your internship experience been like and how is it preparing you for your future? “My internship has prepared me in many ways. I became proficient in Microsoft PowerPoint, Excel, and Word, and I gained confidence in presenting and enjoying my work environment. I had the opportunity to learn from lead news reporters like Maria Stephanos and gain insight into sales, such as how major deals, like those for the NBA Celtics vs. Mavericks game (exclusively on ABC, our affiliate), are closed. Additionally, I learned from an excellent sales and marketing management team and even got to appear in a commercial!”
Most impactful mentor at HPU: “The most impactful mentors at HPU have been April Cosner and Dr. Nahed Eltantawy, interim dean of the Qubein School of Communication. They have led by example in showing me how to jump-start my career as a young woman in business and have been incredibly supportive throughout my journey.”
Most impactful moment at HPU: “The most impactful moment for me at HPU was taking the Business Boot Camp course with Professors April Cosner and Bridget Holcombe. They helped me create a LinkedIn profile and encouraged me to attend the free LinkedIn headshots provided by the school. This led to later connecting with employees at the largest and most successful news station in Boston, Massachusetts.”
How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success? “The small class sizes have significantly contributed to the success of this internship. Close interactions with professors and the relationships built helped me understand the basics of business more thoroughly.”
What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success? “HPU helped me develop strong communication skills, especially when interacting with professionals of all ages. I also learned the importance of customer relationship management, which is evident in sales and in clients returning to the news station for advertisements. Additionally, I cultivated a positive and adaptable mindset, ready to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.”
What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation? “HPU taught me the value of attention to detail, professional attire, punctuality in interviews, performing the job itself, and managing my time effectively to complete tasks.”
Advice for underclassmen: “To be successful after graduation, you must start by believing in yourself and putting in the work. High Point University offers numerous resources to help you reach your goals; taking the first step is key to achieving them.”
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