BROWNWOOD – September 27, 2024 – HPU hosted a new Career and Student Success Week from September 23-27 to provide a variety of activities for students centered around the areas of career preparation and success while in college. More than 100 individuals participated in the week, which was coordinated through the offices of Career Services, Center for Student Success and Alumni Relations.
“We were very encouraged by the participation of students in events all week,” said Lindsay Badgeley, director of alumni relations and career services. “Students asked insightful questions and were very engaged in the content presented. It was also great to have three departments across campus come together for a week-long emphasis to help our students prepare for success now and in the future.”
On Monday, several HPU staff and faculty members kicked off the week with presentations on “What Not to Do” when applying and interviewing for jobs. They gave a wide range of tips such as what not to wear and how to present yourself.
Two events were held on Tuesday. There was a resume workshop hosted by Dr. Nancy Romig, associate professor of English, where students had the chance to develop their resumes. Then, HPU counselor Kaye Cummings and Dean of Students Tammy Arreola had the opportunity to discuss time management with students.
The Career Luncheon, sponsored by the HPU Alumni Association, was held on Wednesday with
HPU alumna Robin Marriott as the guest speaker. Marriott is the author of “Turning Manners Into Money,” and founder of Manners Mean Money. During her presentation, Marriott shared etiquette and communication methods for students to make positive impressions during business meetings, interviews and other social situations.
On Thursday, a session on financials and budgeting was led by financial coach Asa Welker. He shared topics such as budgeting during and after college, student debt, and financial gain to help students learn how to handle a budget and plan for financial situations.
“I learned a lot of things this week that I didn’t know before, to prepare me for my future,” said Alexia Uribe, freshman Honors Academy and social work major. “For example, I didn’t know how to make a resume or a budget and now I have the skills and tools I need to create them.”
The last event was held on Friday, where many of the speakers from the Career and Student Success Week gathered to answer any questions students might have regarding the topics discussed throughout the week. It was a casual time for students to reflect on what they learned and another opportunity to connect with speakers on the topics of the week.
“Overall, this week was a great experience for all who were involved. I appreciated faculty and staff from across campus working together to present topics that impact career and student success throughout the week,” said Dr. Wendy McNeeley, assistant vice president for student success. “The students who participated were engaged and thoughtful with questions and walked away with information that they can use beyond the classroom.”
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Cutline 1: HPU student Blaine Onick connected with Asa Welker on Friday morning during Career and Student Success Week.
Cutline 2: Career and Student Success Week at HPU involved a variety of speakers and involvement across campus. Pictured are organizers and speakers (left to right) Lindsay Badgeley, director of alumni relations and career services; Robin Marriott, founder of Manners Mean Money and guest speaker at the Career Luncheon; Dr. Kalie Lowrie, associate vice president for communications and alumni engagement; and Dr. Wendy McNeeley, assistant vice president for student success.