Meet Leyla, a proud Dominican American from New York City, whose passion for justice and community service led her to double major in political science and criminology here at Manhattan University. With a dream of becoming a criminal defense attorney, she’s turning that passion into action. You’re up, Leyla.
– Hey, hi, hello, and thank you for that introduction, Alex. Growing up as a Dominican American in NYC, I was always taught to help those around me no matter how small or grand the gesture could have been. Living life as a professional dedicated dancer while also having education as a top priority in my household, I knew from a very young age that becoming a criminal defense attorney was my calling. I chose Manhattan University for its incredible liberal arts program, beautiful location, and sense of community. And deciding to double major in political science and criminology was a no brainer for me. Connecting these majors allows me to understand people and society, all while being a voice for those who are often silenced. I strongly value connections. So whether it be receiving support on an assignment and internship search or just figuring out how to go about my responsibilities, the faculty at MU has always lent a helping hand. I received encouragement and inspiration. I even got my current internship through a professor recommending that I apply. I now intern at the New York City Law Department, one of the most dynamic law offices in the world. With hopes of becoming an attorney, this experience has been a dream for me. I’m able to receive hands-on experience amongst New York City’s most prestigious attorneys and courts all while still being a college student. My ability to build connections, communicate well, and work with others has further catapulted my drive into full force thanks to the vital relationships I’ve made on campus. With my pursuit of law school after college, the opportunities are endless. At Manhattan University, I’ve made lifelong friends as we build great future careers all while having fun and working hard. Meeting people in and out of the classroom, my experience here has been one of a kind and one that I can never take for granted. That’s all from me. Back to you, Alex.
– Leyla’s internship at the New York City Law Department is giving her hands-on experience while the Manhattan University professors provide guidance and inspiration. With all of that support, it seems like you are well on your way to your dream of becoming an attorney. Thanks for the update, Leyla. That was awesome.
Manhattan University is known for Division 1 athletics in the competitive Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference, better known as the MAAC. Let’s meet Joe. He’s joining the college tour to speak about his time as a student athlete at Manhattan University and also being a recent graduate and current MBA candidate. Joe, please take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, everyone. So ever since I can remember, I’ve loved being in the water. I started swimming competitively about 15 years ago. And inspired by my dad’s career in accounting, I came to Manhattan University to follow in his footsteps while also being part of the swim team and something bigger than myself. I first came to Manhattan as an accounting major, and I spent four years swimming for the Jaspers. During that time, I helped bring Manhattan University its first gold medal at the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Championships, and I also set three school records. Being part of the swim team has taught me how to manage my time and balance my academics, my athletics, and leadership. Since getting my undergraduate degree, I’m now helping the team continue in its winning ways as a graduate assistant coach. Academically, the professors here have been incredible mentors. They really get to know each of their students. On top of that, Manhattan University also offers their Mentor Program, which connected me with a professional accountant who also graduated from the institution. I got to grow my professional network within my first year of school here. Being part of a small school, you’ll get to know the entire community. I had the chance to build meaningful relationships with all of the brothers on campus. We take time to check in on a personal level. With all the career support, I earned a full-time offer with PricewaterhouseCoopers, where I’ll be starting as an audit associate after completing my MBA. Being both a student and a coach has shown me what true leadership looks like, serving others, staying disciplined, and bringing people together around a common goal. Manhattan University has prepared me for everything ahead, and I’m proud to carry on my dad’s legacy while also building my own. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– From setting records on the swim team to working with career coaches and landing his first accounting position, Joe has balanced academics, athletics, and leadership to his advantage. Joe reminds future Jaspers that being part of a college community means being part of a team. Thanks for sharing, Joe.
Time to meet Shu, an international student in her junior year studying international studies, with a triple minor in political science, psychology, and business. Spending half of her life in Nagano, Japan and the other half in Boston, Massachusetts, Shu was looking for a university with a diverse student body in close proximity to the United Nations headquarters. Let’s hear it, Shu. Take it away.
– Hi, Alex. Thank you so much for the introduction. I grew up moving across borders, which inspired me to further my higher education in international studies. The diversity of the city and proximity to such institutions such as the UN headquarters made spending my undergraduate years in New York City my top priority. The Manhattan University Liberal Arts program is a tight-knit community, where we have a student to faculty ratio of 11 to 1. I was able to get acquainted with most of my department professors very early on. These close relations foster open conversations ranging from paper topics, to future planning, to everyday things. The professors that I have met here become my guiding lines, sparking my curiosity, broadening my perspective, and helping me connect academic knowledge to the world beyond graduation. Additionally, I am very active on campus, serving as the president of the International Student Association, where my board and I strive to create an inclusive, reachable, and welcoming community for our students from abroad. We hold cultural and practical events in collaboration with the Office of International Missions and Partnerships, such as future planning and cultural exchange discussions. Manhattan University is providing me with a very enriching environment throughout this critical growth period of undergraduate studies, furthering my commitment to give back to my community through means of serving in student government, establishing new clubs, and so much more. This is a safe place where I as a student can expand and test my limits academically, as well as to mature as an adult. The multidisciplinary studies that cover sciences to the humanities, and campus community, the volunteering, and the leadership experience, and the people that I have met here have shaped me to the person that I am today. I strive to continue improving to be the best version of myself here at Manhattan University. Now I give the floor back to you, Alex.
– Giving back to the community is a hallmark of the Manhattan University education. And Shu exemplifies what it means to stay true to your roots. From leading the International Student Association to serving in student government, she was blending her career goals with her college life. Way to go, Shu, and thanks for sharing your story.
Here to talk about the Lasallian Catholic values at Manhattan University is Chris from Minnesota. Chris is a junior, accounting major, who felt called to become a Jasper through his experiences in high school and his goal of professional networking in the global financial hub of New York City. So how does this student from Minnesota make connections in the Big Apple? Let’s ask Chris. Take it away.
– Thanks for the intro, Alex. Hey, guys. University is a foundational experience that can transform students into whatever they wanna be. The first step is choosing the right school. For me, my priority was finding a place that could open the most doors for a kid from Minnesota. Manhattan University championed itself as the ultimate doorway, a starting point with endless destinations, especially here in the financial capital of the world, New York City. About 350 years ago, St. John Baptist de La Salle had a vision, education that wasn’t exclusive to the wealthy elite but available to everyone. This is the foundation of the Lasallian mission. And Manhattan University was an easy choice as it exemplifies that mission, from small interactions with students and faculty to the multitude of ways we connect with and support the greater New York community. Understanding what it means to be Lasallian can be best understood through the five core values, faith in the presence of God, concern for the poor and social justice, quality education, inclusive community, and respect for all persons. These pillars foster a culture we can all thrive in regardless of faith and serve as a guiding force as our careers continue. There’s only one thing you graduate with that every other graduate has as well, and that’s your diploma. It’s everything else you do here that makes this time special. For me, I’ve always seen that as a push to do more, to apply myself to the fullest. From serving as the university’s VP of Finance to starting work with a Wall Street internship this past summer, nothing’s ever felt out of reach. You just have to be willing to work for it. That’s a lot easier when you’re surrounded by like-minded individuals who share the same degree of excellence that you do. And I get that here at Manhattan University. Makes all the difference. Sending it back over to you, Alex.
– Chris’s knowledge of the Manhattan University mission and his Wall Street internship experience make him an ideal member of the Jasper community. Chris’s message should resonate with all incoming students. If you’re willing to work for it, it can be yours. Great stuff, Chris.
It’s time to meet Corey, an exercise science major from Pennsylvania. He’s called this award-winning college home for the past few years. In fact, The Princeton Review named HPU the number one Best-Run College in America, and that is just the beginning of the long list of accolades garnered by this university. Corey, tell us more about HPU’s national rankings. Take it away.
– Thank you, Alex. HPU is nationally recognized and for a good reason, for the second consecutive year, HPU is ranked number one Best-Run College in America. That doesn’t happen by accident, it’s thanks to visionary leadership, especially from our president, Dr. Nido Qubein. He has transformed HPU with new academic programs, which include our innovative dental and law schools, and he continues to invest in our future. This excellence is reflected across campus. Our dorms rank number two, Best College Dorms, our student government rank number six, Most Active SGA, our support systems rank number nine, Best Career Services, which helps students with everything from resumes to interview prep, and number 17 for Student Support and Counseling. Whether you’re gearing up for an internship or overcoming a hurdle, HPU has your back. It’s no wonder why we’re also ranked number 24th in the category, Their Students Love These Colleges. From day one, you feel it, especially during move-in where volunteers like me help freshmen settle in. That sense of community is carried through everything, from number 18 Best Intramural Sports to number 20 Best College Theaters to number 22 Best Athletic Facilities and even number 16, Best Campus Food. Being a highly involved student, I’ve experienced time and time again how much HPU invests in me and my classmates. Over the past three years, I’ve seen my friends grow into leaders and innovators, because at HPU, we all have the tools to thrive and that’s why we all can proudly call High Point University home. Back to you, Alex.
– Corey, that list sure is a standout. It sounds like HPU makes students their number one priority, and clearly the nation has taken notice. We’re so happy you get to call this award-winning university home and be part of its success. Best of luck, Corey. Thanks again.
Introducing Tomiwa, a senior finance major from Maryland. HPU has built a network of more than 40 game changing leaders as part of their Access to Innovators program. These industry insiders who mentor HPU students are executives and innovators from leading tech companies. Tomiwa has taken full advantage of his Access to Innovators. Please tell us more.
– Thanks for that warm introduction, Alex. Hello, College Tour Nation. Growing up so close to Washington, D.C., and surrounded by incredible thinkers, I knew I wanted a university that pushed me to grow both personally and professionally. So, when I discovered the opportunity-rich environment at High Point University, choosing HPU was a no brainer. Each semester, HPU brings in a wide range of industry leaders who share real world insights from fields like business, entertainment, technology, leadership and more. Through the HPU Access to Innovators program, C-suite executives and global leaders connect with students right here on campus. We’re talking about CEOs of professional sports teams and major national brands and adventures of products we use every single day. One of my favorite experiences has been moderating a discussion with HPU’s Wealth Management Expert in Residence, Mark Bradburn, where we talked about what it truly takes to navigate the emotional demand of high stress careers in finance. Mr. Bradburn is an executive leader at Morgan Stanley and he has helped many HPU students with career connections. What makes these encounters even more valuable is that students can earn micro-credentials and coachability and our newest certification in emotional intelligence. That’s what sets us apart when it comes time to compete in the workforce. These programs don’t just teach concepts, they involve hands-on activities and real conversations that bring life skills to the forefront. It’s immersive learning that goes far beyond textbooks, teaching lessons that no spreadsheet ever could. HPU truly prides itself on helping students stand out to employers by offering a holistic university experience. Having access to such knowledgeable and experienced professionals has opened doors for me and for every HPU student. These meaningful connections are a big reason why HPU maintains a 99% placement rate in full-time jobs or graduate school within 180 days of graduation. As you explore your future, consider how your university will set you apart and help you become the best version of yourself. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Wow, Tomiwa, from meeting industry moguls to building your credentials, it sounds like you’ve mastered having a growth mindset. Thank you for sharing how key innovators believe in HPU students and allow them to grow in their life skills. We wish you all the best, Tomiwa. Thanks again.
We can’t wait for you to meet Jacqueline, a pharmacy major and member of the University Ambassadors on Campus. This team of students provides the university’s extraordinary campus tour. Families are flocking to HPU, but they still manage to offer everyone who comes a VIP tour experience. Jacqueline, tell us all about the world’s greatest college tour. Take it away.
– Thanks so much, Alex, I appreciate the introduction. I chose High Point for more reasons than I can count. Deciding which college to attend can feel overwhelming, but one thing that completely changed everything for me was my college tour experience at HPU. I fell in love with the university during my tour and the personal touches High Point provides completely blew me away. I left campus thinking this feels like home. Because we have an extraordinary campus and culture, we also provide an extraordinary tour. We do tours very differently here, and those differences matter. Our tours are in depth and you even get a personalized golf cart experience to make the most of your time on campus. University Ambassadors like me are trained to give future students the true student perspective because no one knows the story of HPU better than the students living it. We show students many spaces, not just a few like other college tours. Our guests experience the ins and outs of academic spaces with state-of-the-art technology, our Office of Career and Professional Development, student centers and recreational areas, dining facilities with a stop for a sweet treat of course, athletic facilities including our DI basketball arena and our nationally-ranked dorms. Families also enjoy a complimentary meal on campus so that they can experience our dining options. After the tour, families even have the opportunity to sit down with an admissions counselor to ask any final questions. What makes it even more special is you don’t just see campus, you experience it as if you were a student and you hear our stories. Ambassadors share how we’ve gotten involved, the opportunities we’ve had on campus and how HPU has created such a positive impact for us. My tour is something my family and I will never forget. Each moment made me feel seen, valued, and more than just a member. Now knowing that I get to create the same life-changing experience for future students, is something I’ll never take for granted. Being part of the world’s greatest college tour is one of the most meaningful roles I’ve had here at HPU. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Jacqueline for taking us around this extraordinary campus and sharing your story with us. We couldn’t think of anyone better to give us a sneak peek of the HPU tour experience. Keep up the amazing work, Jacqueline, and thanks again.
Let’s hear from Tiffany, a proud HPU parent who loves being part of the HPU family. Sending her first child to college, Tiffany sought out a welcoming, safe community where her entire family could feel at home. Family means everything to her, and it’s at the heart of HPU. We can’t wait to hear about your experience. Take it away, Tiffany.
– Thanks, Alex. My daughter Sofia is a freshman at High Point University, and sending our first child to college was a big moment, but from the start, HPU made us feel like family. Their values of God, family, country are more than words. Their actions put into place every day. Our first campus visit impressed us with its hospitality and beauty, but what truly set HPU apart were the real life learning experiences and life skills instilled in each student. Students benefit from learning labs that rival Ivy League schools. The preparation that HPU provides their students, we didn’t see that anywhere else. As parents, we felt included from the start. At Freshman Orientation, we had our own parents’ reception and left with new friends and a sense of belonging. Then came Move-In Weekend, three days filled with events for the whole family. Sofia’s sister and our youngest daughter Gia even made new friends at the on-campus movie theater during an event called Sibling Orientation. The weekend ended with a moving convocation ceremony that reassured us and Sofia that she was exactly where she was meant to be. Watching Sofia adjust so confidently and in such a safe environment made it easy to drive away with peace in our hearts. I knew when we entered HPU’s campus that security was taken seriously. That’s deeply appreciated by faculty, students and staff, but also parents like me. HPU champions every student’s success while keeping parents in the loop. There’s a different energy here, welcoming, uplifting, full of purpose. Sending your child to HPU means giving them every opportunity to grow in a safe values-driven environment. Back to you, Alex.
– That’s amazing, Tiffany, we love learning from an HPU parent about why they love HPU. We can tell how much family means to you and are so glad that you found a university that prioritizes the entire family. Enjoy being a proud HPU parent, we are wishing you all the best, Tiffany.
Let’s meet Elden. A sophomore strategic communications and major, Elden’s story is all about the powerful purpose behind HPU’s beautiful campus, which The Princeton Review ranks as the 10th most beautiful campus in the nation. Elden, please show us your home.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, everyone. It’s no secret that HPU is beautiful, but when I first stepped on campus, I was blown away. Every space from where we learn to where we live is designed to inspire, prepare, and feel at home. If you’re interested in finance, you’ll immerse yourself in the stock ticker lab. If you’re a broadcast major, you’ll learn the ins and outs of our state-of-the-art TV studio. HPU’s classrooms make you feel like a young professional, learning to present, collaborate, and lead. When it comes to living on campus, HPU sets the bar high. The dorms are spacious and modern with meaningful comforts like arcades, gyms, salons, and movie theaters. We even have tiny homes and town homes. These communities are designed to ensure that you don’t just live here, you love it here. It’s no wonder our dorms are ranked among the best in the nation. Dining is another standout. Restaurants like 1924 PRIME, Kazoku and Alo offer more than just amazing meals, they serve as fine dining learning labs. We don’t just enjoy five-star meals, we learn how to navigate those environments with confidence from cultural dining to professional etiquette and mock interviews, so when we’re sitting across from future employers, we’re not intimidated, we’re confident, competent, and ready. Every part of this campus is intentional. It combines comfort with opportunity, giving us the confidence and skills to thrive long after graduation. Living and learning here has taught me something important, your environment matters. When you spend four years in a place that’s designed to reflect your future, you leave with not just knowledge, but poise and preparation to take on anything. HPU is a place where the inspiring environment is created to positively impact your future. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you for showing us around, Elden. There’s no denying, HPU’s environment truly stands out from fine dining experiences that prepare you for job interviews to its picturesque campus environment. It’s clear this is more than just a university. It’s a place to call home for the next four years. Thanks again, Elden.
Let’s welcome Evan, a finance and accounting double major who knew he was home from the moment he stepped on campus. With more than half of incoming freshmen applying Early Decision at HPU, he’ll be taking us behind the scenes to break down all of the perks that come with joining the HPU family from day one. Take it away, Evan.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, everyone. When I discovered HPU, I knew right away that it was the best fit for me. As soon as I walked on campus, it felt like home, so applying Early Decision was the best choice. And the benefits that come with applying Early Decision make it a no brainer. You get priority access in several important categories, including priority for scholarship consideration, priority access to our nationally-ranked dorms, priority access to class registration, exclusive and highly sought parking spots on campus, and even early move in, which gives you extra time to get settled before the start of your freshman year. The biggest perk in my opinion, you’ll hear back about your admission decision by November 20th, which means you could remove all of the stress of wondering where you’re going to college during your senior year of high school. Those final months of being home with mom and dad can really be enjoyed, and when friends and relatives come around at the holidays wanting to know where your future starts, you’ll know the answer. Early Decision students also get early consideration for exclusive fellows programs with scholarships and opportunities to connect with like-minded peers, and early access to your personal Student Success Coach. My coach reached out in December to personalize my class schedule and involvement, which was huge as I dove into both finance and accounting. All students at HPU are set up for success, but the added perks of applying early decision are undeniable. Choosing to apply Early Decision at HPU taught me to trust my gut. Now, I’m thriving in classes and leading my peers. If HPU feels like home to you, go for Early Decision, you won’t regret it. Back to you, Alex.
Thanks, Evan. All of those perks sound amazing. For those who want priority access to five-star housing and exclusive opportunities, applying Early Decisions sounds like the way to go. We can’t wait to hear all about you enjoying those great perks. Best of luck, Evan.