Hawk Hands

Hawk Hands: Katie Purvis '27

A photo of Katie Purvis

Student ambassadors embody the values and mission of the university through their community engagement. The Student 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. Katie Purvis is one of these ambassadors and has made a positive impact at UNCW. Read below to learn more about her experience.

ABOUT YOU

Name: Katie Purvis
Class Year: Sophomore
Major: Communcation Studies Major with a Minor In leadership
College: College of Humanities, Social Sciences, and the Arts
Hometown: Kannapolis, NC

YOUR SEAHAWK EXPERIENCE

Why did you choose to attend UNCW?

When applying to colleges, NC State was my dream school. My family was closely connected there because of my siblings, but I wanted to keep my options open. We toured UNCW and I fell in love with the campus. Not only the way that it looked but also how it made me feel. It truly felt like home, and I knew that in everything I did here, I would be able to find my community here.

What does it mean to you to be a Seahawk?

I think being a Seahawk is not only being a representative but also someone who people can generally look up to. I know there were people when I first got here that I admired and looked up to, and the image and example they set was something I wanted to follow. Being a good student, leader, and person as well as how you show that within your day-to-day life is what makes you a Seahawk.

What is your favorite place on campus?

I am not an education major, but I've taken some classes in the Education Building for my minor, and it is truly a work of art. The thought that went into the design and the story behind it means a lot to me.

What campus student organizations are you part of (outside of Ambassadors)?

Outside of Student Ambassadors I am the Director of Spirit for ACE, and work as an Office Assistant for the Office of the Dean of Students.

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

I have been recently elected as President of ACE for the 2025-2026 school year!

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

This is something that I have struggled with in the past, but I also try to remember that like most things, you will change. Sometimes you will find yourself growing out of things and closing doors to make room for others to open. I think when you're trying to balance responsibilities, it's important to remember the values and goals that you have for yourself. I think sometimes when I get busy, I can lose sight of the important things. Keeping those things close has kept me together and allowed me to do tasks at my full potential.

How have you grown during your time at UNCW?

I have boosted my confidence when it comes to being a student and leader. I came to UNCW completely by myself, not knowing anyone, and have completely built a new life for myself from the ground up — I think with that I have grown in so many ways. I have learned new things about the people around me, about myself, and about Wilmington and UNCW as a whole. I love this city and the people I have met and truly could see myself here for a long time.

Where do you see yourself after graduation?

My overall goal is to work for a marketing firm in marketing strategy, or possibly event planner for UNCW or around the Wilmington area.

What is the best piece of advice you have received?

Stop doing things that don't bring you joy. You will notice within your work if it doesn't bring you joy anymore, and you will create this unhappy lifestyle for yourself that is not worth living.

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

Find your community and find your people. Not everything will work out for you or fit your vibe, but there is so much opportunity here that you can find a community you belong in. Being able to create that school/life balance is something everyone needs to have. Find people that make you happy in what you're doing!

YOUR AMBASSADOR EXPERIENCE

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

I think I was looking to expand myself within UNCW and also build my leadership and professional skills but also find a community. Student Ambassadors was one of the first things I joined this year and has brought me everything I was looking for and more.

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

I am proud of being on the exec board this year!

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

It has introduced me to some of the people I would love to work for in the future — with this I have been able to build those connections.

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

This is where you will get the most networking! These people love students and love to hear about your stories and be involved in them! You have experiences some people never get in college while also building and retaining skills you can use for the rest of your life/career.

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

I think the experience I have had here makes it special to give back. People are more prone to give back to things they have passion for, and this ties into my college experience so far. I encourage a lot of people to think of how they can give back to a certain area or group on campus that means a lot to them — it is helpful for the future generation of students, and you get to relive good memories from your time as a student.