About Me

Hi, my name is Emma Gilliam. I graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2024 with two bachelor of arts degrees in Political Science and Advertising/Public Relations within the Hussman School of Journalism and Media. Now I am pursuing my Master’s in Public Administration at the UNC School of Government. I love cheering on the Tar Heels! From academics to athletics UNC excels and I am an enthusiastic student of both.

Ecstatic after rushing the field when UNC beat Duke in a double-overtime homecoming thriller.

I am a sports enthusiast, love to listen to music and enjoy hanging out with my friends and family. I am also an avid dog lover, especially of my girl Lily!

I was born and raised in Hendersonville, NC, and I love the mountains. I am a fierce advocate for my community. I cherish my home and strive to make an impact in it.

In the summer of 2023, I had the opportunity to intern with my local government. There I was allowed to shadow EVERY single department of the city from police to water, to planning and finance. I also wrote an application for the city to be recognized as an AARP Livable Community, initiated a local government education lesson with content and videos for local schools, and created social media content, flyers, videos, and more! This opportunity was one I will never forget as I soaked up knowledge from every employee I encountered and was tasked with new responsibilities every day.

This photo is from me participating in the driving course. I only hit a few cones… luckily they hired me before they saw my driving skills!

I also served my home as the 2020 NC Apple Ambassador where I represented the NC Growers Association and Apple Festival. This experience is one where I had opportunities to meet a variety of people and represent an industry that is the backbone of my hometown.

Apple Festival Parade in Hendersonville, NC

I am an advocate for change and have a passion for politics! I put my passions into action by volunteering for the League of Women Voters, Eric Gash for Congress, and Florence Allbaugh for the School Board. I was charged with managing social media accounts, facilitating debates, and planning events, with these groups. I have also worked polls on many occasions.

Working with my fellow student volunteers for Eric Gash who ran for Congress!

Alongside my political endeavors, I have work experience in the food industry working for Pelican’s Snoballs, and Johnson Family Farm located in Hendersonville, NC. I currently babysit to make money throughout the school year and love engaging with kids.

These experiences have taught me communication, leadership, public speaking, problem-solving, and computer skills. I hope to someday work in a political, administration, public relations, or nonprofit sector where I can have a career in a field in something I truly care about while constantly learning and engaging with new people!  

If I sound like a good candidate or my services interest you please reach out!