Hawk Hands: Lauren Thomas 27'
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. Lauren Thomas is one of these ambassadors and has made a positive impact at UNCW. Read below to learn more about her experience.
ABOUT YOU
- Name: Lauren Thomas
- Class Year: Sophomore
- Major: Marketing with minor in Tourism, Recreation, and Sport
- College: Cameron School of Business
- Hometown:Lexington, KY
YOUR SEAHAWK EXPERIENCE
Why did you choose to attend UNCW?
- I have always loved Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach! Vacationing in the summers to see family in Wilmington allowed me to experience the area and fall in love with UNCW.
What does it mean to you to be a Seahawk?
- To be a Seahawk means to love and serve those around you with excellence and kindness. As a Seahawk I am a part of a community bigger than myself and it’s a privilege to give back to Seahawks past, present, and future.
What is your favorite place on campus?
- My favorite place on campus has to be Trask! I love going to all of the basketball games to cheer on our team! The student section is always a blast!
What campus student organizations are you part of (outside of Ambassadors)?
- Outside of Student Ambassadors, I am a part of the UNCW Dance Company, Ski and Snowboard Club, and a Resident Assistant for Housing and Residence Life.
What is an accomplishment at UNCW that you are proud of?
- I am very proud of the work I have done as a Resident Assistant. Between creating connections, curating programs, and working with the Housing and Residence Life staff in Seahawk Village, I have made incredible memories and friendships that will last a lifetime. For the month of November, I was named the Resident Assistant of the Month and would not have been able to receive such an award without the incredible team that supports me and residents that I serve!
How do you balance your work/school responsibilities with your personal life?
- Time management is super important yet can be so difficult! Balancing so many things takes time and a good deal of planning! I love being involved and cherish the time I get to spend with the student organizations I am a part of. Learning to say no has been difficult but has allowed me to balance school and social life to get the most out of both experiences!
How have you grown during your time at UNCW?
- I have seen myself grow into a leadership position as a Resident Assistant. Getting to connect and encourage residents during their time at UNCW has been so impactful. Having an incredible RA myself freshman year, I am grateful to give back to my residents and to cheer them on as they continue their academic journey!
Where do you see yourself after graduation?
- After graduation, I would love to work for UNCW in the University Advancement’s Event Management division. I hope to continue to create a space for the UNCW community to be celebrated for all the incredible feats our students and alumni achieve.
What is the best piece of advice you have received?
- The best advice I have ever received was to love others as I would want to be loved. By doing this, I have found such a great appreciation for the people around me and the impact they have on my life!
What advice do you have for students looking to be involved on campus?
- Learn how to go out of your comfort zone and try new things! There are so many amazing clubs and organizations that will give you a great community, but also an opportunity to try new things and challenge yourself!
YOUR AMBASSADOR EXPERIENCE
Why did you decide to become an Ambassador with the Division of Advancement?
- I wanted to become more connected with the University and join an organization that prioritized professionalism and philanthropy.
What is an accomplishment with the Ambassadors that you are most proud of?
- We had an incredibly successful Oozeball Tournament last spring! We had so many students, alumni, and staff compete in the longest standing tradition at UNCW, and we hope to make the event even better this year!
How has being an Ambassador set you up for success after graduation?
- Being an Ambassador has helped me create connections with professional staff at UNCW that have allowed me to pursue my interests in event planning! I hope to work with University Advancement after graduation to create memorable events for the UNCW community.
What advice would you share with your peers about getting involved with Advancement events and campaigns?
- There are so many opportunities to stay connected with the university and help to pave the way for future Seahawks! Through Advancement events and campaigns, we can create a flourishing future where we all soar far together!
What has being an Ambassador taught you about philanthropy and giving back to UNCW (through time, talent & treasure)?
- Serving others and giving back to a community that has given me so much is a privilege in itself. It has shown me the impact of the work we do to serve others and to truly cherish the people we work with!