I was given the chance to interview an Alumni of my choice.  I used this special opportunity to chose New Castle High Alumni, and recent 2018 graduate, Maria Cade. Maria, who also happens to be my older sister, is currently a freshman at The University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. When she returned home over Thanksgiving break, I jumped at the chance to catch up on her experiences, college transition, and life as a new Tar Heel.

How is college different than high school?

Maria:

There are many differences between college and high school. One of the main challenges is balancing your school work with your newly granted freedoms. It can be a struggle at some times, but as long as you put in the work you will be able to succeed!

What is your intended major?

Maria:

My major is Broadcast Journalism. This is one of my favorite subjects and I want to be a head news anchor.

What are your career ambitions?

Maria:

As a Broadcasting major, I plan on becoming the head news anchor for a mainstream station. I would LOVE to work on a show with the status of Good Morning America or CNN World News. I know this won’t happen overnight, but I am ready to work until this comes true!

What made you chose UNC?

Maria:There were many different factors that led me to choosing UNC. One of the main factors was UNC’s School of Media and Journalism. It is one of the top professional schools in the nation for my major, and the opportunities granted through me within this program exceed opportunities provided at any other institution. I also love UNC because I am able to continue keeping up with my passion for theatre even though I am not a theatre major.

Are you involved in any extra-curricular activities at UNC?

Maria:

Even though I have only been at Chapel Hill for one semester, I feel like I am already making my mark on this campus! I hold a seat on the Undergraduate Senate as the School of Media and Journalism Representative. I am also heavily involved in UNC’s theatre community. I will be Assistant Directing the Pauper Players Performance Troupe for the Spring 2019 semester (after being a Troupe member for Fall 2018). I have also recently been cast in two shows at UNC – Me Too Monologues and Ghost Quartet! In addition to that, I hold a social media internship with the company Purcado.

Do you miss your hometown and friends?

Maria:

I miss my friends and family from New Castle very much. It is definitely culture shock going from New Castle, PA to North Carolina! However, it is truly the best decision I could have made. Change is good, especially when you are able to gain so many valuable experiences and memories.

What do you like the most about UNC?

Maria:

I love the community environment that UNC thrives off of. Everyone is so open and willing to support everyone. That makes the college experience so much better.

What is your favorite class and why?

Maria:

My favorite class for Fall 2018 was a sociology class based around Race and Ethnicity. It was so interesting to me to learn about different people and cultures from around the world.

Have you become a basketball fan since becoming a Tar Heel?

Maria:Actually Yes! I love the basketball team and all the sports teams now that I am a Tar heel

Thank you to Maria for sharing  a little glimpse of life after high school.  We wish you all the best and know that you are missed here at Ne Ca Hi! Please Note: Maria is the former Senior Editor for The Eye of the Hurricane.