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The Tar Heel experience

Explore life at Carolina

Sure, classrooms are a big part of life at Carolina, but learning and discovery happens in every part of campus.

With the start of the new school year just a few weeks away, take a look at everything Carolina has to offer.

  • 100+student-led service-learning programs
  • 802student organizations
  • 19student recreation facilities, including fitness centers, athletic fields and more
  • 4campus makerspaces
  • 95+restaurants and bars in Chapel Hill
  • 51club sports

Hallmark events

  • Students dancing.

    Dancing for a cause

    Hundreds of Carolina students raise thousands of dollars for UNC Children’s Hospital patients at Dance Marathon every March.

  • A cappella groups perform at Sunset Serenade

    Sunset on Polk Place

    On the evening before the first day of classes, students crowd the quad in front of Wilson Library for a free concert featuring Carolina's acapella groups.

  • Students throw colorful powder in the air.

    A colorful celebration

    Students transform Hooker Fields into a canvas of colors at the annual Holi Moli each spring.

  • Students take photo by Old Well

    A sip from the Old Well

    As part of a decades-old tradition, Tar Heels take a sip from the Old Well on the first day of classes, seeking good luck in the form of good grades, even a 4.0.

Beyond the stone walls

Campus isn't the only place Tar Heels experience university life. From study abroad to surrounding towns, Carolina provides unique opportunities for students to discover the world around them.

  • The story of study abroad

    Studying abroad once was considered an extravagance few could afford. Students today see global engagement as a fundamental part of their education, and many at Carolina have at least one study abroad experience on their transcript.

  • Home away from home

    Chapel Hill routinely ranks as one of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States — a reputation guided by the diverse social, cultural and professional opportunities that flow between the campus and town. From live music and eclectic dining to quiet trails and parks, discover more about Chapel Hill and neighboring Carrboro.

  • Tar Heel interns

    Internships serve as important ways for students to gain work experience in their chosen field, but because they often are unpaid, many students may have to forgo the experience. Carolina is working to ensure that students can participate, regardless of their financial situation.