Name: Thalia Carpenter (previously Thalia Harrison)
UNCW Swimming & Diving Class of 2015
Events: 100 and 200 back
Degree: Public Health Studies
Profession: Sales Development Manager
Current residence: Denver, Colorado
What is your favorite memory of being part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program?
I loved our Saturday morning beach practices! I also feel incredibly lucky to have swam for Coach Allen. He’s a legend who taught me so much, and having him in my corner during those years was a true privilege.
How has your experience as part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program impacted or influenced your life?
After years of being a swimmer and specifically at UNCW, I’ve built a level of discipline and dedication that stays with me today. It has taught me mental toughness and the motivation to show up and give 100% even on the hard days. I now have a lifelong drive for health and wellness, and a work ethic that I carry into everything I do.
What have you been up to since your days on the UNCW pool deck?
I couldn’t leave the water immediately, so I joined Wrightsville Beach Ocean Rescue after graduation and stayed in Wrightsville for a few years. I then moved across the country to Portland, Oregon where I met my husband. We moved to Denver, Colorado together where we recently got married, completely remodeled our home, and just welcomed our first baby girl. We love spending time outdoors and doing our favorite mountain activities – trail running, biking, and skiing.
Favorite stomping grounds from your time at UNCW?
South End of Wrightsville Beach and Hillsdale
Favorite UNCW Swimming & Diving slogan or cheer?
“It’s a great day to be a Seahawk” and Coach Allen blowing the conch before every home meet.
Parting advice for current UNCW Swimmers and Divers and/or recent alumni?
Like everything in life, your time at UNCW goes by in the blink of an eye—so soak in every second. There’s nothing quite like the bond you have with your team, and you’ll never experience anything exactly like those years again. They are the memories you’ll look back on for the rest of your life and wish you could re-live.