High Point University: Focused on Building Careers and Character

Each university has their own focus, vibe, and offerings.  Today we’ll explore HPU which serves approximately 6,550 students in the city of High Point, NC.  As the self-proclaimed “premier life skills university” - they market themselves as an institution focusing on the development of careers and character. 

HPU offers over 60 programs of study and integrates career readiness into every aspect of its educational experience with the goal of ensuring students graduate with the critical thinking skills and confidence needed to succeed.

Right away in freshman year, students are connected with a Success Coach and Career Advisor, who help by suggesting best-fit classes and organizations across campus. Faculty mentors, peer mentors, and academic advisors, continue the mentoring throughout the student’s time at HPU. Career services provide one-on-one coaching for identifying career goals and developing job search strategies, writing resumes, preparing for interviews, and development of networking skills. The Access to Innovators Program has a robust lineup of change agents who come to coach, mentor and work with students.

HPU also has a career-focused curriculum in which courses are designed to align with current industry standards and employer expectations. They emphasize hands-on learning through internships, co-op programs, and service projects, with a quarter of HPU’s classes having an experiential learning component. This practical exposure helps students apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges.

Additionally many internship opportunities are found through HPU’s strong industry connections and alumni network. The university taps their alumni for guest lectures, panel participation, mentorship programs, and many networking events that collaboratively bring current students and experienced professionals together. These interactions help students gain practical skills, real-world experience, and connections that open doors after graduation. According to HPU, around 70% of students who complete internships obtain employment before graduation and 99% of graduates are employed or in graduate school within 180 days.

HPU also places a strong emphasis on personal development, focusing on areas such as leadership, character, and service, by encouraging students to contribute positively to society. The coordination of community service learning projects allow students to develop leadership and problem-solving skills while making a positive impact.

An example of HPU’s approach for turning education into a launchpad for professional growth is how they teach students to turn everyday encounters into networking opportunities and focus on  the development of “life skills”. A unique benefit is HPU’s two special on-campus restaurants that serve as fine dining learning labs - exposing students to business and social etiquette, global culture and international cuisine. Students leave their cell phones behind and learn to more fully engage with others while using professional table etiquette, and the experience puts them more at ease in a formal setting.

Campus life at HPU is designed to be engaging and inspiring. They have a beautiful campus, delicious dining halls, food trucks, an array of campus events and sporting opportunities (with Division 1 athletics), six outdoor heated pools (and one indoor pool) for classes and relaxation, and over 100 student organizations.  They strive to highlight their “caring people” as a concierge with luxury services such as arranging for airport transportation, golf cart rental (for showing guests around campus), dry cleaning service, deliveries of flowers, cakes, cards, etc., all examples of HPU's commitment to providing a “first-class” educational experience.

High Point University is continually evolving, with many new construction projects that enhance the campus experience. Recent development includes state-of-the-art academic buildings, residence halls, and recreational facilities. Beyond the impressive academic spaces, one of my favorite places on campus was the 8,000 sq. foot Caine Conservatory, where students can study and socialize among the tropical plant life and enjoy a delicious meal at the Butterfly Café.

A few other shoutouts:

They have an honors program and a number of accelerated degree programs, with 3+2 programs (athletic training, mechanical/civil engineering, biomedical engineering, and more) and a six-year track for the Doctor of Pharmacy degree.

They also offer students a tuition-free master degree with a choice of 10 degree programs!  Tuition is waived for students who stay at HPU and live on campus, and offered at 50% for those who live elsewhere. 

Also of note, is HPU President Nido Qubein - who has been leading a transformation of growth for HPU for the last 20+ years. His background as an internationally-known author and consultant speaker is unique and imparted throughout a visit to HPU.  He personally teaches the President’s First-Year Seminar on Life Skills and is clearly focused on developing young leaders. This emphasis on leadership is further exemplified in his Monday Motivations (weekly video coaching from him to students) and leadership quotes. One of my favorites: “Your present circumstances don’t determine where you go; they merely determine where you start.” (I do love inspirational messaging!)

For students who are interested in applying, HPU has a rolling admissions policy, meaning you can apply at any time throughout the year, however you should note that the Scholarship Incentive Program has a priority deadline in early November. A variety of merit scholarships are offered (many upon review of the admission application and based on academic achievement, leadership, and community service).  They also offer select invitations to a Presidential Scholars weekend where you can interview to increase your scholarship offer.

Everyone looks for something a little different on their educational path.  Explore different colleges and universities until you find a handful of “best fit” colleges for you. I help students and families uncover new options and take a planful approach to the college application process.  If you would like assistance along your journey, contact me at confidentcollegeplanning@gmail.com to see how my services can help!