University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

I can confidently say that once a Tar Heel, always a Tar Heel. During my four years as a UNC alumnus, every time I reveal my Tar Heel status to unsuspecting Tar Heels, they smile from ear to ear. The most unique aspect of UNC is the school spirit and sense of camaraderie among alumni and students, an ideal academic atmosphere that encourages shared growth. UNC students feel safe on campus because of our unspoken agreement to protect and support each other both inside and outside of class. My classes... Read More allowed for lively discussion between students and teaching staff, where ideas were respectfully exchanged and the real learning happened. Outside of the classroom, Tar Heels support each other by watching over each others belongings in our school libraries and dining sites without even having to ask. It is custom for students to leave their laptop and books at a table to go to the bathroom or even a study break, knowing that it will still be there upon their return. If you are on campus late for classes or studying, it is common for not only friends but even unacquainted students to walk with each other to their dormitories. There is even a student organization called Safewalk that provides students with a student-walking partner to accompany them on their late night walks home from campus. I always felt bonded to the students around me because in spite of the schools large size, there was a strong sense of community and care among acquainted and unacquainted students. The support provided by UNC staff and students during school and beyond fosters friendship and networking opportunities virtually everywhere. Through UNCs career services office, I have connected with various Tar Heels that have led to employment and volunteering opportunities. Attending sporting events and alumni events, I have made friends in the many cities that I have lived and visited. The UNC network is so large and active that you can find friendly Tar Heels in most of the US and even in many parts of the world. With its reputation as a top public university, the relatively low cost, high quality of education, and truly friendly classmates and alumni network make UNC a unique educational opportunity.