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Lauren Draper, a Spring 2024 Technology Division graduate, embraces destiny as she reflects on her journey to the University of Houston, unveiling passion despite unexpected turns, and her plans post-graduation.

What factors ultimately led you to choose the University of Houston?

One day my father invited me to a UH basketball game. (I suspect this was all part of his master plan!) The chants and enthusiasm from the student section paired with my pop’s passion for the team instantly made me realize I wanted to become a part of this community.

I applied to the Bauer College of Business for HRM, only to find out at orientation I got into the School of Technology — HRD. This turned out to be the perfect twist of fate.

Your degree is in Human Resources Development. What is it about this field that interests and motivates you?

During my time as a bartender, I discovered my knack for connecting with people. It's this connection that led me to pursue a degree in Human Resources Development. I’m drawn to the nature of this field and the opportunities it provides to be at the forefront of driving change and nurturing talent on both at the individual and organizational levels.

Who have been some of your significant, positive supporters and academic influences before UH, and while you’ve been a student here?

I am driven by the love and support of my friends and family. My father, Scott Draper, and bonus mom, Linda Draper, who never gave up on me and pushed me to make a life for myself. My mother, Ronda Draper, who has been there for me in more ways than I ever knew, when I was my very best, and comforted me when I was at my worst.

The unconditional love of my best friend since grade school, Rebecca Wilkerson, who I graduated high school with and went on to get an associate degree with, and now our bachelor's degrees. My boyfriend, Cody McElya, the one who brings me back down to Earth at the times I need it the most and has never for a second doubted my goals and dreams. My mentors and now friends, Megan Billnoske and Shaun Hulin, who so selflessly played a role in shaping who I am, and who I want to be.

Can you discuss any pivotal moments or challenges you faced in your academic journey before attending the University of Houston?

I graduated from La Porte High School in 2014 and did what I thought I was supposed to do by enrolling in classes at the local community college. I left with my GPA at a 0.75. Ten years later, here I am graduating with honors from the University of Houston with a bachelor’s degree in science — Human Resource Development.

I spent most of my 20s lost and unsure of anything, let alone my future. Despite my uncertainties, there was always a flicker of hope within me, a desire for something more, something better. I spent those years working as a bartender where I would meet and converse with people in all different areas of their lives.

There was never a defined moment where I hit rock bottom, but I was determined to turn things around. My best friend, Rebecca Wilkerson, told me she was going back to college to pursue her nursing degree, and I told my mom I was going to sign up for some classes at San Jacinto Community College. I had no particular degree in mind, so business admin sounded good to me. This decision marked the first step towards reclaiming my academic journey.

It wasn't easy; I faced doubts and setbacks along the way, but I refused to let them define me. Instead, I used them as fuel to propel myself forward. Two years later, Rebecca and I graduated with our associates degrees together, Class of 2021. The day before graduation I was sure this was enough and I wouldn’t continue my education, but the moment I walked across that stage to accept my diploma the pride and sense of self-worth that flooded over me begged to differ.

Reflecting on your time at UH, what moments or experiences stand out as particularly memorable for you? How has your involvement in the Student Society of Human Resource Development (SSHRD) enriched your overall college experience at the University of Houston?

At Cat's Back, I made it my mission to connect with the SSHRD team, which I found on Get Involved, and joined the organization that very day. I also virtually attended an info session on other opportunities offered by the school of technology and had the unexpected fortune of winning a raffle prize!

When I went to collect it later that week, I had a fortuitous encounter with Barbara Stewart. Our 15-minute conversation instilled in me the courage and confidence to pursue a leadership role within SSHRD — a decision that would shape my future significantly.

In the Spring of '23, I served as the Professional Development Representative, where I had the pleasure of meeting Megan Billnoske. Our conversation during a workshop coordination call flowed effortlessly, and as we wrapped up, Megan mentioned the mentorship program, an opportunity I hadn't considered until then. Intrigued by her offer to be my mentor, I eagerly accepted, setting the stage for a transformative journey.

The mentorship program proved invaluable, inspiring me to take on the role of vice president for the fall semester and oversee the mentorship program. Through innovative initiatives and reconnecting with past mentors and alumni, we achieved a remarkable 250 percent increase in mentor and member engagement compared to any previous semester.

As the Spring '24 President, my dedication lies in empowering fellow officers, expanding resources for sustainable organizational growth, and ensuring others have the same enriching experiences in the program as I have. My journey with SSHRD has not only led me to lifelong friends but also opened doors to opportunities beyond my imagination.

Looking forward with your degree in hand, what are some opportunities you’d like to pursue?

If I’ve learned anything from this journey, it is that I am a lifelong learner.

With a passion for talent development, I aspire to explore opportunities that allow me to gain a comprehensive understanding of various industries and their inner workings.

Whether it's through roles in recruitment, training, or organizational development, I'm eager to apply my skills and knowledge to support the growth and success of individuals and organizations.