BROWNWOOD – September 27, 2024 – HPU will host a new Career and Student Success Week from September 23-27, featuring a variety of activities centered around the areas of career readiness and success during college. was provided to the students. More than 100 individuals participated in the week, which was coordinated through Career Services, the Center for Student Success, and the Office of Alumni Relations.
Director of Alumni Relations and Career Services Lindsey Badgley said, “We have been so encouraged by our students’ participation in events this past week.” “Students asked insightful questions and were very engaged with the content presented, and the three departments on campus came together to help students succeed now and in the future. It was also great to have a week of focus to prepare for it.”
On Monday, several HPU staff and faculty members kicked off the week with a presentation on what not to do when applying for a job or interviewing. I received a wide range of advice, including what not to wear and how to present myself.
Two events were held on Tuesday. There was a resume workshop hosted by Dr. Nancy Romig, Associate Professor of English, where students had the opportunity to create their resumes. Afterward, HPU Counselor Kay Cummings and Dean of Students Tammy Arreola had the opportunity to discuss time management with the students.
A career luncheon hosted by the HPU Alumni Association was held Wednesday and featured HPU alumnus Robin Marriott as a guest speaker. Marriott is the author of Turning Manners Into Money and founder of Manners Mean Money. During his presentation, Marriott shared etiquette and communication methods for students to make a positive impression in business meetings, interviews, and other social situations.
On Thursday, financial coach Asa Welker led a session on finance and budgeting. He shared topics such as budgeting, student debt, and financial benefits during and after college to help students learn how to handle a budget and plan for their financial situation.
“This week I learned a lot of things I didn’t know before to help prepare me for my future,” said Honors Academy freshman and social work major Alexia Uribe. “For example, I didn’t know how to create a resume or a budget, but now I have the skills and tools I need to create them.”
The final event was held on Friday, with many of the Career and Student Success Week speakers coming together to answer any questions students might have regarding the topics discussed throughout the week. This was an informal time for students to reflect on what they had learned and another opportunity to engage with speakers about the week’s topics.
“Overall, this week was a great experience for everyone involved. I appreciated how faculty and staff across campus worked together to present topics throughout the week that impact careers and student success.” said Dr. Wendy McNealy, assistant vice president for student success. “Students who participated were enthusiastic and eager to answer questions and took home information that they can use outside of the classroom.”
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Cutline 1: HPU student Blaine Onik connected with Asa Welker on Friday morning during Career and Student Success Week.
Cutline 2: Career and Student Success Week at HPU featured a variety of speakers and participants from across campus. Pictured are organizers and speakers (left to right), Lindsay Badgley, director of alumni relations and career services. Robin Marriott, Founder of Manners Mean Money and Career Luncheon Guest Speaker. Dr. Kalie Lowrie, Vice President of Communications and Alumni Engagement. Dr. Wendy McNealy, assistant vice president for student success;