# Polytechnic campus has always been home for W. P. Carey grad

### From middle school to college, Edgardo Jauregui's time at the Polytechnic campus helped shape his future in HR

By Molly Loonam, ASU News
December 16, 2025

Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable fall 2025 graduates.

When it came time to choose a college, Edgardo Jauregui knew where he wanted to be: Arizona State University's Polytechnic campus.

"I have been a part of ASU ever since middle school — I was accepted into ASU Preparatory in seventh grade and continued through high school. ASU always felt like home to me, especially since both schools are located at the Poly campus," said Jauregui, who remembers spending time at the Student Union and the Devil’s Den during high school.

Jauregui, who lives in San Tan Valley, Arizona, credits his success and academic achievements to his support system, including ASU faculty members who pushed him to become the best version of himself, both academically and personally. He says that Clinical Professor Mindy West and Associate Teaching Professor Eric Knott — who co-nominated him for the Dean's Medalist Award in human resources — were particularly impactful during his time at ASU.

"The further I got into my college career, the more I realized that the professors are there to help you. The moment I put in extra effort in class, my life took a dramatic turn for the better," Jauregui said. "I surrounded myself with great people, like my professors, and some ambitious classmates. This pushed me to become someone I never thought I could be just a year ago."

Question: What was your “aha” moment, when you realized you wanted to study the field you majored in?

Answer: When my brother-in-law visited, he talked about his experience as an HR executive at his company. The impact he had was very high, and he always had interesting stories. This piqued my interest, and I looked into enrolling in some HR classes. From the first day, I could tell this was what I wanted to do for a career.

Q: What’s something you learned while at ASU — in the classroom or otherwise — that surprised you or changed your perspective?

A: How important it is to be involved in the school. Clubs help you build a sense of community and belonging while also connecting with fellow students and potential employers. The day I joined ASU's Society of Human Resources Management chapter, I made great friends and so many memories with amazing people. It truly made me value the importance of being involved.

Q: Which professor taught you the most important lesson while at ASU?

A: Associate Teaching Professor Eric Knott taught me to always put myself out there and network. Nowadays, getting your bachelor’s degree doesn't guarantee a job right out of college. It’s important to join clubs, attend career fairs and explore external organizations to open yourself up to different career opportunities.

Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to those still in school?

A: Build memories and take risks you normally wouldn’t take. When life comes flashing before our eyes, we can either have very fond memories that we treasure or a life with missed opportunities and regrets. In the worst-case scenario, you'll have some funny and intriguing stories to tell your kids if your risk doesn't pay off.

Q: What was your favorite spot on campus, whether for studying, meeting friends or just thinking about life?

A: The Devil’s Den on the Polytechnic campus. It has two pool tables, and I used to play there all the time with friends during high school and occasionally during college. It became my go-to place to unwind after a long day of homework or a big test. Whether I was spending time with friends or enjoying a quiet moment alone, the Devil’s Den was the perfect space to relax and recharge.

Q: What are your plans after graduation?

A: I plan to continue working at my current company, Calportland, and eventually start an HR consulting company. I'm passionate about improving my life in many ways, which is why I take an ambitious approach. I separate my aspirations into five pillars — mental, spiritual, physical, social and financial — and I plan to keep strengthening each one.

Q: If someone gave you $40 million to solve one problem on our planet, what would you tackle?

A: I would address the issue of student debt. Today, it's common for students to take on tens of thousands of dollars for a college education, which can take a long time to pay off. Financial stress can be difficult to deal with, especially when transitioning from college to career. I would create a scholarship program to help students who need assistance.

This story originally appeared on ASU News.