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Head over heels for Carolina

By Caroline E. Daly and Madeline Pace, University Communications

What makes the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill such a special place?

We could say the picturesque campus, the life-changing research headed by world-class faculty, the impactful education happening in and outside of classrooms and the spirit of public service that is embedded in all of us.

Those are all amazing, but what really makes Carolina truly special are the people who make up our community.

In honor of Valentine’s Day, Tar Heels shared what they love about Carolina.

What I love about Carolina is the sense of community. You walk around, and everyone’s sitting on the quad and enjoying each other’s company on a beautiful day.

Tyler Baity, junior biology major

Four students sitting on a bench together in front of South Building.

I just love the school spirit, especially around basketball season.

Phoebe Dell, first-year neuroscience major

The student section of a basketball game.

Even if you’re new to the community, like me, it’s hard not to immediately love Carolina students. Y’all are driven and curious and creative, and I find it a joy to be in the classroom with you.

Shanna Slank, teaching assistant professor, College of Arts and Sciences’ philosophy department

Students in class.

“I love that Carolina has a vibrant Muslim community. My high school had a very small Muslim community, but here on campus, it’s a very strong community with a lot of events.” Husna Kider, junior

“I love the people that are drawn to UNC: we all want to be here, not somewhere else.” Andrew Buchanan, senior

“What I love about UNC is the people. Everyone I have met, including students and faculty, pushes me to be better and goes above and beyond to support me during tough moments.” Mimi Tra, senior

“I love Carolina because students are empowered with the resources and opportunities to pursue their greatest aspirations in and out of the classroom. I think what Michael Jordan probably meant to say is, at Carolina, the sky is the limit.” Carson Moore, senior

A student solders in a makerspace.

(Jon Gardiner/UNC-Chapel Hill)

“What I love most about Carolina is that faculty, staff and students are driven to excel. Quoting one of our former grad students: We are very competitive here, but not with each other.” John H. Stembler Jr. Distinguished Professor Charlie Tuggle, senior associate dean for undergraduate studies at UNC Hussman School of Journalism and Media

(Johnny Andrews/UNC-Chapel Hill)

“I love being with the students and the teachers, learning and staying active, and just being around you all.” Janet Vitolo, senior

“Since I was an undergrad at UNC, I’ve loved it most for the people – not just those I know, but the whole community. There’s something so welcoming and familial about our Tar Heel collective, both on campus and off.” Cat Zachary ’10, communications coordinator

“My students. I love walking into my classroom and seeing them all there, ready to learn. They are smart and enthusiastic, and I get a burst of energy the moment I see them.” Mark Sutter, adjunct instructor

“I love the welcoming and positive nature of the people, which fosters a sense of unity and love.” Orlando Hernandez, junior

I definitely love the people here, especially my friends, and the campus atmosphere is so amazing to me.

Lauren Walker, sophomore neuroscience and biology major

Students walking on Polk Place.

What I love about Carolina is the passion of the staff, faculty and especially the students who never stop pushing for change. We love our traditions but recognize that we need to continue to work to build a more just, equitable and accessible university, and the Carolina community is always ready to rise to the challenge.

Nicholas Graham, University archivist

I love the heart of Carolina. I love that such a large University feels like such a small town.

Jordan Young, sociology doctoral candidate

Students walking down stairs to FallFest

Meet some of the students who make Carolina special

Click on a photo below to read about a Tar Heel and learn how they are strengthening our campus community