Ishmil Harvey pauses to fist bump one of the campers at Camp Dixie in Fayetteville. (University of Mount Olive photo)
FAYETTEVILLE — Ishmil Harvey, a 23-year-old from Elizabethtown, is making a significant impact as a program staff member this summer at Camp Dixie in Fayetteville..
A dedicated student at the University of Mount Olive (UMO), Harvey is on track to graduate in December 2024 with a bachelor’s degree in recreation and leisure studies. Since enrolling at UMO in 2020, he has distinguished himself academically and personally.
Adopted at six months old by Johnny and Wanda Wilson, Harvey’s upbringing in a loving and supportive family shaped his positive outlook on life. Despite not having a relationship with his biological mother, Harvey treasures the love and opportunities provided by his adoptive family, including his two siblings, Johnny Wilson Jr. and Justin Wilson.
“My family made my life wonderful,” Harvey shares. “My siblings became my closest friends and confidants. We shared countless memories, from family vacations to simple moments of joy at home. The warmth and togetherness of my adoptive family created a safe haven where I always felt valued and understood. My adoptive parents’ unwavering belief in me gave me the confidence to face challenges head-on and to always strive for the best.”
A graduate of East Bladen High School, Harvey has embraced his college experience at UMO, finding guidance and encouragement from a supportive community and dedicated faculty. He credits his professors and peers for fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie that motivated him to strive for excellence.
“My journey at UMO has been transformative,” Harvey reflects. “Through engaging coursework, internships, and community service, I’ve developed academically and personally, discovering my true potential.”
As part of his coursework at UMO, Harvey had to complete an internship related to his field of study. This summer, he is interning as a program staff member at Camp Dixie, where he brings his enthusiasm and leadership skills to a variety of tasks. From meal preparations to leading recreational activities, Harvey ensures campers have a safe, enjoyable, and enriching experience.
“Working at Camp Dixie is like being at a home away from home,” Harvey says. “The hands-on experience I’m gaining here is invaluable, enhancing my leadership, communication, and teamwork skills. Moreover, camp life’s dynamic and often unpredictable nature builds your resilience and flexibility. I learn to think on my feet, handle unexpected challenges with grace, and maintain a positive attitude even in stressful situations. These qualities are highly transferable to any future career path.”
With 336 hours completed out of the required 480 for his internship, Harvey sees the value in hands-on opportunities. “Hands-on internships provide invaluable real-world experience that goes beyond classroom learning. They often lead to job offers or open doors to other career opportunities.”
Harvey expresses deep gratitude for the support and opportunities provided by his family, professors, and the UMO community. Dr. Jill Mills, a professor at UMO, has been a particular inspiration to Harvey. “She takes time to explain things and helps no matter what you need,” he says.
As Harvey looks forward to his future, he carries with him the lessons learned from his grandmother, whose strength, kindness, and love for learning have been a tremendous source of inspiration. “My grandmother grew up during challenging times, yet she never allowed those hardships to define her,” Harvey said. “Instead, she used them as stepping stones to build a better future for herself and her family. My grandmother’s life is a testament to the power of love, kindness, and perseverance. Her curiosity and love for learning have ignited a similar passion in me. Most of all, my grandmother has shown me that we have the strength to overcome challenges and emerge even stronger.”
