2025 graduates give advice to Class of 2026
Four Carolina alumni look back at lessons learned and imbue some wisdom to the graduating class.
It’s been one year since Carolina celebrated the Class of 2025 at Spring Commencement with an inspiring keynote address from soccer star Mia Hamm. Since then, they’ve used their Carolina education in a variety of ways.
The Well spoke with four 2025 graduates, each of whom has taken a unique path post-graduation, to reflect on where they are now and what advice they have for the Class of 2026.
Rose Houck
(Submitted photo)
Current role: English teaching assistant at primary schools in the Balearic Islands of Spain; previously studied historic flood loss as a research technician
What role has Carolina played in your success?
Carolina’s unique opportunities supported my many independent interests. As an undergraduate, I founded a nonprofit student-run cafe, pursued multiple degrees and conducted independent research while gaining global experience. Carolina shaped me as a student, entrepreneur and global citizen.
What experiences helped you during your time at Carolina?
The Global Gap Year Fellowship and Phillips Ambassadors program gave me the opportunity to live, study and serve abroad. These experiences expanded my global network, deepened my commitment to service and connected me with a community of students who share my interest in cross-cultural learning.
What advice do you have for 2026 graduates?
Stay curious and seek opportunities that challenge your perspective. Build a path that reflects your interests and values. The community you developed at Chapel Hill will continue to support you — lean on your Tar Heel family and pay it forward.
Matthew Tweden
(Submitted photo)
Current role: Master of Philosophy in international relations student, University of Oxford
What role has Carolina played in your success?
Carolina encouraged me to take responsible risks, both in Chapel Hill and abroad, in pursuing unconventional experiences. Support from faculty, mentors and peers helped me find the academic questions that shaped my graduate studies.
What experiences helped you during your time at Carolina?
Alongside coursework, Carolina provided opportunities to dive deeper into my interests. Through my senior thesis, study abroad experience and UNC Global Affairs’ Diplomacy Initiative, I took ownership of my academic journey and explored timely global issues.
What advice do you have for 2026 graduates?
You don’t need all the answers today. Your greatest assets are time, openness to new experiences and a willingness to take risks. The years immediately after graduation are a valuable window to invest in opportunities that shape you.
Celine Locklear
(Submitted photo)
Current role: Clinical research assistant, UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center
What role has Carolina played in your success?
Carolina exposed me to clinical research early and gave me the experience needed to qualify for roles like the one I have now. It also pushed me to stay focused and persevere, even when things felt overwhelming.
What experiences helped you during your time at Carolina?
My research lab experience and mentors were critical to my growth. Programs like Chancellor’s Science Scholars, Carolina Indian Circle and Alpha Pi Omega Sorority Inc. provided support, community and a space to be myself.
What advice do you have for 2026 graduates?
Chase what you want, even if it feels out of reach. You’re more qualified than you think, and you belong in those spaces. Stay focused, lean on your community and don’t be afraid to take up space.
Grant Alexander
(Submitted photo)
Current position: Intern, Office of the Mayor, City of Durham; Master of Public Policy student, UNC College of Arts and Sciences
What role has Carolina played in your success?
Carolina provided the platform and expectation to turn curiosity into direction. I explored interests across journalism, local government, cultural administration, community development, sustainability and policy, ultimately refining a focus on climate and urban policy while building the skills to pursue it professionally.
What experiences helped you during your time at Carolina?
While I had many formative experiences, studying abroad in Brazil was the most pivotal. With support from the Institute for the Study of the Americas and the UNC Scholars program, I built on coursework in global environmental justice and urban governance and gained a more grounded perspective on climate challenges, which inspired my commitment to climate justice and sustainability.
What advice do you have for 2026 graduates?
If you want to attend graduate school, reach out to faculty directly with your résumé and express interest in contributing to their research or courses. This can lead to assistantships that reduce costs and offer valuable professional development.
