It is hard to believe that in just 18 short days, I will walk across the stage in Trask and become a college graduate. Though my journey did not start off at UNCW, I am very thankful my collegiate career ended here. Most transfers come with a unique story regarding their arrival to a new college, I am happy to say I was one of those transfers. The past two years have made a significant mark on my life and have prepared me for my future endeavors; I am pleased to say that I will be a graduate of the University of North Carolina Wilmington.
If you had asked me four (and a half, #5thyear) years ago if I would be a UNCW graduate, chances are I probably would have told you no. Growing up in a small town, I thought I wanted to live the glamorous city life. However, after two years in Charlotte, NC, those city lights stopped being so inspiring, and I was ready for a change. Moving to Wilmington, NC has been by far one of the most rewarding decisions of my life. UNCW could not have been a better fit for me. I have made lifelong friendships, created lasting memories and found a field that brings excitement and joy to my life as I embark into this next chapter.
As a transfer you have the distinct opportunity to be able to compare one experience to another, this is something that not all students are capable of doing. This ability enabled me to fully appreciate my time here at UNCW and just how exceptional the Communication Studies department is and the numerous doors this major has opened for me; more specifically, a great internship opportunity in the heart of downtown Wilmington at Bon’s Eye Marketing Firm. I have focused much of my coursework in Public Relations and Integrated Marketing Communication studies. As I go forth into the “real” world, I hope to pursue a job in one of those fields.
While the idea of graduating is exciting, it is sad to see this chapter of my life come to an end. It has been by far, some of the best years and I never knew that four years could fly by so quickly. Though, I am nervous to see what the next chapter holds, I feel confident that my time here at UNCW has fully prepared me for my future and what lies ahead for my professional career.
-Mary Carney
IMC Hawks Blog 