In 2012, UNC Charlotte was on the top 40 list of “On the Rise Universities.” I have seen many changes since I first arrived in 2008. The school is constantly building and there are twice as many things to do now than seven years ago. There are some things you just can’t miss out on if you ever attend or visit the campus.
1.) Intramural and Club Sports
Playing intramural sports at UNC Charlotte was one of the most fun things I did at the School. There are intramural seasons for most sports people enjoy, including basketball, volleyball, soccer, baseball, flag football and many more.
They have men’s, women’s and co-rec teams which also make for a great experience because you meet a lot of different people and build a network. Unlike intramural, club sports teams actually travel to different schools and play other teams; are pretty fun as well.
2.) Career Center
Everyone who is in college eventually wants their hard work to get them a job. The University provides a career center that has helped a great deal of students in their future career paths. You can visit anytime and talk with a counselor about job fairs and what you’re interested in.
They even offer a self-assessment test that shows you four jobs that you may be interested in. When in doubt, you can visit the center and try to get some sense of direction or good advice.
3.) Nature Walk
One of the hot spots on-campus is the Gardens. There is a big area on campus that is gated-off and loaded with many different types of flowers, trees, streams and other beautiful sights. Students will walk through the gardens on the way to class if they have time. The gardens are popular to people who aren’t even students. On multiple occasions, I’ve seen couples taking wedding photos there.
4.) Student Union
The Student Union is THE spot for campus affairs. You can’t miss out on the Union because that’s where you will always find something going on. They host video game tournaments, talent shows, fund raisers, and many more social events. There is a help desk in the Union where you can find out any information you need.
You will always be able to find someone helpful. Whether it be going to look at art, visit Starbucks, Wendy’s, or just to see a movie, you have to visit the Student Union.
5.) To the Mountaintop
UNC Charlotte has very nice scenery and views of the surrounding area. The library has one of the best views of uptown Charlotte that there is. There are twelve floors in the Atkins library. If you ever visit the twelfth floor you will be in for two major treats: When you reach the top of the library there is an archive of rare books and materials.
This floor of the library has all of its books in a glass room that you can see, but must be granted access to. The second treat is the view of uptown Charlotte. You can literally see the entire city from the top of the library. I have been told that top of the library is the highest point in Charlotte that isn’t uptown.
There are many great things to do on the campus of UNC Charlotte. Theseare some you will regret missing out on. Make the best of your time there and don’t let anything pass you by.
David Smith graduated UNC Charlotte in 2012. The world is what you make it.