Nakyah McNeal has always been fascinated with people and their experiences. She contemplated a career in
psychology because of it, but after taking just one introductory class in
social work, she fell in love with the field.
“Social work focused on the things I was passionate about: advocating for people, building relationships and making change,” said McNeal, who earned a bachelor’s degree in social work and a minor in leadership studies and psychology.
McNeal, a native of Rocky Mount, NC, hopes to put her degree to use helping college students and plans to pursue a master’s degree in higher education. She worked in the UNCW Office of Admissions as a guest relations student manager.
“My experience as a Seahawk has been so special and made me realize that I have a passion for higher education and impacting the lives of college students,” said McNeal, a SOAR Ambassador scholarship recipient. “The time spent in college is so pivotal, and the people who have mentored me during my time here will have a lasting impact on my career. I would love to play that role in the lives of other students."
McNeal noted her favorite part about being a Seahawk was building community with fellow students.
“There are so many ways to get involved and make connections on campus,” she added. “UNCW is also the perfect mix of both small school and big university experiences. I love that when I go to my classes, there aren’t a million people, and I can get to know my classmates and professors. At the same time, though, I can go to basketball and baseball games and cheer with hundreds of other Seahawks!”
During her time at UNCW, McNeal was a member of the pep band, Phi Sigma Pi Honor Fraternity, OSLE’s Student Leadership Advisory Council, SOAR Ambassadors, the CHHS Dean’s Student Leadership Advisory Council, the Student Social Work Organization and served as president of the Cru Campus Ministry. She was recognized by the National Association of Social Workers, being one of two students awarded the Equity and Inclusion Student Award.
“My involvement in different clubs and organizations at UNCW has been the cherry on top of my Seahawk experience,” she said. “There are opportunities and relationships that have been crucial to my time here that would not have been possible without these clubs. I have been challenged and encouraged in ways that have allowed me to flourish and learn more about myself.”
