Hawk Hands

Hawk Hands: Hailee Bankhead 26'

Student ambassadors embody the values and mission of the university through their community engagement. The Alumni Ambassadors at UNCW are no exception as they are catalysts for campus life and advancement. These students are committed to UNCW’s success and will soar high after graduation. Hailee Bankhead is one of these ambassadors and has made a positive impact at UNCW. Read below to learn more about her experience.

ABOUT YOU

Name: Hailee Bankhead
Class Year: Junior
Major: Biology, with minors in Psychology and Neuroscience
College: College of Science and Engineering
Hometown: Gastonia, North Carolina

YOUR SEAHAWK EXPERIENCE

Why did you choose to attend UNCW?

During my junior year of high school, I visited the campus during spring break. As soon I got out of the car, I immediately loved it. The campus is absolutely beautiful and the people even more so. I couldn't help but smile while exploring what would soon be my new home.

What does it mean to you to be a Seahawk?

To me, being a Seahawk means to soar to your highest potential. I think everyone should reach high and out of their comfort zones so they can experience all the world has to offer. Being a Seahawk gives you the opportunity to explore new things in a safe and supporting environment. I think everyone at UNCW should take advantage of all the university has to offer.

What is your favorite place on campus?

I love the Campus Commons — the beautiful lakes and all the greenery is unbeatable.

What is an accomplishment at UNCW that you are proud of?

I received the Excellence in Engagement Award in 2024. This award means so much to me. Since starting college, I wanted to see my peers as happy and passionate about the university as I am. I wanted to get involved and engage with the university to learn what was important to other students to improve the quality of student life. Seeing my effort be noticed encouraged me to continue my work.

How do you balance your work/school responsibilities with your personal life?

I'll start off by saying it's not easy. I think being disciplined and doing things even when you don't feel like is a great course of action. I still struggle and have struggled before when I've added too many things to my schedule and couldn't keep up. Keeping a steady routine, eating three meals a day, exercising, sleeping eight hours, and taking care of myself is how I try to feel good and avoid burnout.

How have you grown during your time at UNCW?

I have tried to take advantage of all that UNCW has to offer. I have stepped out of my comfort zone and done things I hadn't considered doing in the past. I joined Student Ambassadors and took an executive board position. I worked in a biochemistry laboratory my freshman year through the First-Year Research Experience program. I also experienced my first plane ride when I studied abroad in Greece. I believe I have been able to do these things because of the encouragement and support I've received from UNCW. I think over the past three years I have learned much about myself and am growing to reach my highest potential.

Where do you see yourself after graduation?

I am hoping to get accepted into a graduate program for microbiology to further my education. If I don't do that right after my graduation, then I will stay in Wilmington and find a job with my biology degree.

What is the best piece of advice you have received?

"Your past self had wished for this moment, cherish it." I think this is great advice because it is so easy to get caught up worrying about the future that we forget to take a step back and appreciate where we are and how far we've come.

What advice do you have for students looking to be involved on campus?

IIt doesn't matter what year you are, where you're from, or what your major is — it is never too late to get involved. If you try an organization and don't like it, try another one; there is something for everyone at UNCW.

YOUR AMBASSADOR EXPERIENCE

Why did you decide to become an Ambassador with the Division of Advancement?

I knew I wanted to get involved during my freshman year and as soon as I saw Student Ambassadors — I knew that was the type of club I wanted to join.

What is an accomplishment with the Ambassadors that you are most proud of?

As Vice President of Service this school year, I have worked with Advancement to improve morale during events for Student Ambassadors. This means a lot because my goal at the start of the year was to help Ambassadors feel comfortable and happy during Advancement Events so they could meet so many alumni and professional staff.

How has being an Ambassador set you up for success after graduation?

I have made so many connections with alumni, professional staff, professors, and even the Chancellor. I've learned so much about the workforce and how to succeed in the future.

What advice would you share with your peers about getting involved with Advancement events and campaigns?

think it's important for everyone to be involved with Advancement because their goal is to advance the university forward. If you enjoyed your time as a Seahawk, then you want to make sure everyone after you does too. If you didn't enjoy being a Seahawk, then you want to make sure UNCW knows how to improve for the future.

What has being an Ambassador taught you about philanthropy and giving back to UNCW (through time, talent & treasure)?

VIt has taught me that to run a university you need a village, and everyone's part is important. Without everyone's time and skills, we wouldn't be able to be the amazing university we are today.