When senior Olivia Hammill flips her tassel to the left on May 13, she will graduate knowing she has left a lasting impact, not only on UNC but on the greater Chapel Hill community.
Hammill, a public service scholar, also served as chief of staff for Mary Cooper’s administration and president of Order of the Bell Tower during her four years at the University.
She says if her friends had to describe her in three words, they would choose optimistic, workaholic and dedicated, and Hammill says she wouldn’t have it any other way.
“When you go to a university you love so much, you want to give back to it,” Hammill says. “I wanted to be able to serve in some capacity and give back. … I like to do the best I can do.
“I wanted to make sure I took advantage of all the opportunities UNC has to offer and make the most of my college experience.”
In addition to her positions in OBT and student government, Hammill has also worked at The Daily Tar Heel, served on Carolina Union’s Board of Directors and participated in Excelling Through Mentoring.
Her Campus sat down with Hammill to find out more about her four years as a Tar Heel and what she wants to do next.
On being involved…
Her Campus: What was the most satisfying part of working for Mary Cooper’s administration?
Olivia Hammill: As chief of staff, I got to oversee committees and special projects. It was great seeing the growth of all the committeees throughout the year. And by the end, almost all of Mary’s platform was completed. It was a huge success. Everyone went above and beyond, and I couldn’t be more proud of everyone who was a part of it.
HC: Why did you decide to get involved with Order of the Bell Tower?
OH: One of the things that makes OBT such a great organization is that it is so unique. Its members come from all different places andbackgrounds . But what we all have in common is a love for UNC. It’s great to interact with so many people who share that love.
On life …
HC: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
OH: That’s a hard question! In 10 years, I hope that I am doing something that I love doing and that I have made some kind of impact on someone somewhere.
HC: What is the coolest thing you have ever done?
OH: Interning on Capitol Hill. I was an intern for a congressman last summer. I got to go to congressional hearings. As a political science major, it was cool to see how the government and democracy work firsthand.
HC: What is a motto you live by?
OH: I don’t really have a specific motto, but I wake up thinking ‘Every day is a new day. Tackle each day and do the best you can,’ and that’s what why I try to do.
On UNC …
HC: What is your favorite part about UNC?
OH: It is the best university in the world. The people at UNC, you can’t find people like the ones here anywhere else – interesting, smart, fascinating people. They come from so many different backgrounds, and UNC brings them all together in one place.
HC: What is your favorite memory at UNC ?
OH: There are a lot. Winning the national championship in 2009 definitely stands out. I got to rush franklin street.You could feel the excitement in the air. I was glad I got to be a part of it.
HC: What should be on every UNC student’s bucket list ?
OH: Going to a UNC-Duke game.
HC: What are you going to miss the most about Carolina?
OH: Can I say everything? I am going to miss walking through campus. The Old Well. The Bell Tower. All of my friends. I am going to miss walking down Franklin Street and going to YoPo and Top of the Hill. I am probably even going to miss riding the bus to class. No other place compares to UNC.
All photos provided by Olivia Hammill