Here’s a quick glimpse at one of many impressive outcomes HPU graduates achieve.
Name: Claire Barnes, Class of 2026
Hometown: Belton, South Carolina
Major: International business with a concentration in Spanish; minor in political science
Internship plans: Claire interned at the North Carolina Court of Appeals this summer as their Legal Intern in Raleigh, North Carolina. Throughout the five weeks of her internship, she attended seminars hosted by justices and members of the North Carolina governing system, researched and analyzed appeal cases from the state of North Carolina and attended general court hearings at the Wake County Courthouse.
What has your internship experience been like and how has it prepared you for your future? “My internship experience prepared me for all aspects of the ‘real world’ outside of college. Navigating my way through downtown Raleigh, learning how to communicate with my bosses, utilizing networking opportunities and even navigating a 9-5 job gave me a small taste of what life outside of college will be like.“
Most impactful mentor at HPU: “My most impactful mentor at HPU is Professor Lillian Watson, director of the Business Communications Program. I first connected with Professor Watson after being admitted to Alpha Kappa Psi, the professional co-ed business fraternity on HPU’s campus. Since I am a business student with interest in the legal field, Professor Watson and I clicked immediately. I took her Business Law class in the fall of my sophomore year, which turned out to be my favorite course at HPU. Professor Watson and I serve as students and faculty justices in the Office of Community Standards as well. She’s the best!”
How you used Career & Professional Development: “I’ve used the Office of Career and Professional Development when I was looking into the HPU in the City opportunities. I was a member of the HPU in the City cohort to Washington, D.C., last fall. This was an instrumental externship experience for me to see what it was like to engage in the political and legal field in the real world after college.”
Most impactful moment at HPU: “The most impactful moment I’ve had at HPU was coming in on freshman move-in day in August 2022. I remember being welcomed home as a nervous, unprepared, excited freshman. Each new class of freshmen that we welcome home brings back memories of nostalgia and growth at how much being a student at HPU has impacted my educational journey.”
How has HPU’s inspiring environment contributed to your success? “HPU’s inspiring environment has encouraged me to rise to the occasion, no matter what situation I’m in. Whether it’s walking into a lobby with a grand staircase or dressing in business professional attire for a presentation, HPU’s environment has given me the confidence and peace to walk into any professional setting.”
What are the life skills HPU helped you develop that prepared you for long-term success? “The most important life skill that HPU has helped me to develop is clear and concise communication. My verbal, non-verbal and writing communication skills have grown significantly through opportunities presented both in and out of the classroom.”
What are the values and virtues HPU’s campus helped you develop that you’ll take with you after graduation? “The one value that sticks out to me most is personal initiative. Nothing in life is handed to you on a silver platter, so YOU have to be the one to have the drive and achieve what you’ve always dreamed of. Parents, professors and peers at HPU and beyond are always cheering you along!”
Advice for underclassmen: “Take advantage of the resources that your professors and professionals in Cottrell Hall provide on a daily basis. Their tips and tricks go a long way as they’ve had experience in the professional world!”
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