Star Watson, a building environmental technician supervisor for housing and residence life, has been at UNC Charlotte for 11 years. In her position, she supervises the southeast zone housekeepers in Sanford Hall, Levine Hall and the Office of Housing and Residence Life. Watson, who is working on her degree in early elementary education at Charlotte, recently was awarded the Janet B. Royster Scholarship. Learn more about her in this Q&A.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding part of my job is my staff team and interacting with the students. They are my drive and the reason I love to work in this department.
What does it mean to you to be a recipient of the Janet B. Royster Scholarship?
Winning this scholarship means the world to me. I was nervous about the process, but when I got the email, I almost cried. I am so grateful. Being a full-time employee, a mother and in school can be a lot, but to hear that I received the scholarship was a blessing.
What are your goals for the scholarship?
I plan to continue my degree and will graduate in spring 2024. I plan to teach on campus at some point in the future.
What are three words you would use to describe UNC Charlotte?
The three words I would use to describe UNC Charlotte are strong, pride and driven.
The University has overcome so much and the word strong means that through it all we still stand strong. Pride, wherever you go you always see the green. We take pride in our school. Finally, I chose the word driven. UNC Charlotte strives to give everyone the best college experience, whether you are a student, a staff member, a parent or just visiting.
Where is your favorite place on campus?
My favorite place on campus is the Botanical Gardens. It is so peaceful and beautiful. I like to sit on the bridge and relax.
What do you like to do when you are not working?
When I am not working, I love church and spending time with my family. I love to fish and draw and I also coach dance and the step team for my church.
What is a fun fact about you that many people may not know?
Many people don’t know that I am scared of big dogs and frogs. I also do like to be cold.
What is the best piece of advice you have received?
The best piece of advance I have received was a quote my mom taught me. The author is anonymous, but the quote says, “Keep going, each step may get harder but don’t stop! The view is beautiful at the top!”