Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, nonprofits and others seek out Appalachian State University students for their strong work ethic, professional preparation, adaptability, passion, willingness to contribute at any level, and more.
Here’s what a few of them say:
“I’ve worked in partnership with App State for the last 15 years, and I’ve found its students to be industrious and curious at a level that is second to none. By bringing them into IBM, we’ve infused their drive into our culture and it’s a win-win for everyone.”
— Chris O’Connor, general manager, Internet of Things Division at IBM
“The Biltmore Co. loves hiring Appalachian graduates because we have a wide variety of career opportunities that coincide well with the various degree majors offered.
“Appalachian graduates share a love of the Blue Ridge Mountains and an understanding of mountain culture, and they realize the importance of tourism in Western North Carolina, which makes them a good fit for Biltmore.”
— Chip Bryan ’07, talent acquisition and recruitment supervisor for The Biltmore Co.
“For years, Appalachian State University has excelled at fostering the growth of talented individuals with a unique combination of creative skill sets and technical knowledge.
“Salem One’s continued success is dependent upon our ability to provide clients with innovative solutions that not only solve challenges of today, but anticipate potential challenges of tomorrow. We consider ourselves fortunate to have programs like Appalachian’s GAIT (graphic arts and imaging technology) working hard to give us these talented individuals.”
— Joe Conley ’93, general manager of Salem One
“Wilkes County Schools is proud to partner with Appalachian State University. Appalachian teacher graduates have a passion for the profession and have a good understanding of the role teachers play in a student’s life.
“Appalachian teacher graduates employed by Wilkes County Schools have demonstrated a strong work ethic, have had a mindset of reflection, and understand that becoming a great teacher involves always being willing to improve yourself.”
— Dr. Westley Wood ’98 ’05, executive director of personnel, Wilkes County Schools
“The value proposition many Mountaineers offer is the balance of academic achievement and work ethic. Most of the students I interview have chosen to work part time while in school. This ability to balance the rigors of college with the responsibilities of a job indicates maturity, discipline and drive — all attributes of a successful claim representative with National General Insurance.
“Our culture is one of hard work made enjoyable by a family-like environment. This is in large part made possible by the number of App State graduates we have here.”
— Mark Crabb, vice president of claims for the Mid-Atlantic Division of National General Insurance
“At SkyLine Membership Corp., we look for… enthusiasm, adaptability, the ability to communicate and a desire to learn.
“Appalachian graduates come to us prepared to join a workforce, eager to contribute and ready to learn all the complexities associated with our industry and company. Furthermore, they have a love for our area, and we find it important for our employees to become part of the communities we serve.”
— Kim Shepherd ’97, CEO of SkyLine
“I love working with Appalachian students and graduates. WYN is so fortunate to be housed in a university town in which we have a ready talent base. Sometimes the people we hire have volunteered with us previously as interns, tutors or mentors. This prior experience and knowledge of our community make Appalachian grads the perfect fit for our organization.”
— Jennifer Warren, executive director of Western Youth Network Inc.
“I am always incredibly impressed with Appalachian’s students. They come to the Aspen Music Festival incredibly prepared. I can always rely on them technically, and they always have a good attitude. Knowing that Scott (Wynne) is preparing students — and he is preparing them in a way that I would want them to be prepared — is a wonderful scenario.”
— Lisa Nigris, director of audiovisual services at the New England Conservatory and former director of audio production at the Aspen Music Festival and School
Career Development Center
The Career Development Center encourages and supports students in exploring career paths, identifying and developing skills, and pursuing experiential opportunities.
First Destinations
Whether graduates seek immediate employment or an advanced degree after graduation, their Appalachian Experience gets them where they want to go.
Within a year of graduation*:
- 95% of undergraduate alumni are employed and/or enrolled in continuing higher education programs
- 95% of graduate alumni are employed and/or enrolled in continuing higher education programs
Tracking rate on all 2018-19 graduates: 70.4%*
Life and Career Success
Where can an Appalachian degree take you? Anywhere you want to go! Appalachian generates passionate and engaged alumni, who become leaders in their communities and chosen professions. They exemplify how an Appalachian education can and does make the world a better place.
Read more alumni success stories >>
Get an internship while at Appalachian
One of the best ways to start your career is through an internship. Appalachian State University has the connections to help you find one.