Name: Ahmad Hill
Hometown: Camden, North Carolina (graduate of Camden County High School)
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2020
Where is your favorite place on campus?
This is a tough one. I enjoy food and also see the benefit of quiet study places to prepare for classes. So, I would say that a combination of Chick-Fil-A and the J. Murrey Atkins Library. I typically grab food from Chick-Fil-A and then head to the library. This allows me to achieve some much needed downtime and studying, while also enjoying the wonders of Chick-Fil-A. This is a perfect combination for almost any student!
Favorite Charlotte restaurant: Monterrey's Mexican Restaurant
Favorite class: Principles of Accounting I
What major(s) are you pursuing and why?
Why did you choose the Belk College of Business?
The Belk College of Business is recognized as being one of the premier business schools throughout North Carolina and the nation. As a senior in high school, I understood that having a college education that is rigorous and widely respected is essential for future employment and real-world application. The Belk College of Business is definitely rigorous, highly respected, and among the greatest business schools in the nation. In addition, when researching my prospective colleges and universities, UNC Charlotte definitely stood out because of its achieving alumni. Through the Faces of Belk College, I was able to view the very successful alumni that includes the CEO of Lowe’s, President and CEO of Premier, Federal Reserve employees, and many more. Additionally, I believe the accessibility to Charlotte — one of the largest financial cities in the country — was a huge component. Ultimately, it was a relatively easy decision for me to choose such an outstanding college like the Belk College of Business.
What activities are you involved in when not working/studying?
I believe having a balance between work and relaxation is very important for a college student. During my free time, I enjoy watching Netflix, playing video games, hanging out with friends, and seeking ways to get active in my community through volunteering. In addition, some of the organizations I am a part of allow me to enjoy my time outside of class, studying and work.
What has been the best part of your academic experience so far?
The best part of my academic experience was being able to complete unique research at such an early stage in my undergraduate career. In the summer of 2017, I was able to participate in the Charlotte Research Symposium where I was provided stipends to complete research with a faculty member on our chosen topic. This experience allowed me to complete research on a innovative budgeting resource to evaluate the impact it has produced for a nearby North Carolina county. Additionally, I was able to complete research on topics that ranged from revenue and expenditure trends to real estate values for the nearby county.
How would you describe the Belk College of Business to someone who is thinking about applying?
I wholeheartedly believe that when I say “it has endless opportunities,” it is not just a cliche. The Belk College of Business definitely has programs and services available for students who are striving to complete a very valuable and rigorous business education. I would encourage every student to continuously seek ways to become involved with programs and organizations—for instance, the Business Honors Program. Also, professors are here to help. The Belk College of Business professors welcome students who seek help during their office hours, and not just around exam time. These professors truly want to create prominent business students and understand that it will take a lot of guidance to achieve that goal. Finally, I would encourage students to understand that this college truly can help you achieve your goals, if you are willing to put forth the time and effort.
If you have received a scholarship or financial aid, how has that helped you?
The scholarships and financial aid I have received thus far have allowed me to be able to pursue a post-secondary degree. I believe that my life would be completely different if I did not have the financial assistance that I have received at UNC Charlotte. One of the prominent things that I believe makes UNC Charlotte great is its numerous opportunities for undergraduate students. For instance, the Honors Program, Charlotte Research Scholars, and so many more. I wholeheartedly believe that UNC Charlotte has made a substantial impact on my potential opportunities. I am very grateful for the scholarships and financial aid I have received, and I understand I would not be in the position I am in today without it.
What message do you have for faculty/staff?
Thank you to the faculty and staff that have been instrumental in my success. The relationships I have built with my professors, as well as the staff, have been invaluable. So many opportunities have been provided to me stemming from the close relationships with my professors. In particular, Dr. Shirley Hunter and Dr. Zachary Mohr have been amazing mentors throughout my college experience. Now it is time to pay it forward.
In your opinion, what are the three best things about UNC Charlotte?
- UNC Charlotte has endless opportunities for students to become innovators, leaders, and researchers even at the undergraduate level.
- The UNC Charlotte campus is absolutely gorgeous and seemingly always expanding, so there is something to continuously be excited about.
- UNC Charlotte is comprised of the most genuine students who are consistently looking for ways to improve the university’s and their personal brand.
Tell us three random things about yourself.
- I am a firm believer that the three best Netflix series are: "The Office," "How to Get Away With Murder," and "How I Met Your Mother."
- I can play three musical instruments: trombone, baritone and tuba.
- My favorite (and the best) NFL team is the Dallas Cowboys.
