Morgan “Rose” Shelor

Hometown/State: Cary, NC

Incoming EC Scholar Class (year): 2012

Scholarship(s) Awarded: Bate Special Funds

Major/Intended Major: Nursing and Hispanic Studies

Why did you choose to attend East Carolina University?

East Carolina University was the only school that would let me major and minor in nursing and Hispanic studies, respectively. Now that I’m on campus, I’ve learned about the opportunity to double major in nursing and Hispanic studies. I am very impressed with how supportive the Honors College staff and my professors are to double majoring in two very different areas. They also have an excellent nursing program, which I look forward to being a part of. The motto Servire also appealed to me because I volunteered at a hospital and nursing home during high school and I knew I wanted to grow in that area and continue to be involved in the local community.

What has your scholarship enabled you to do?

I am looking forward to studying abroad this summer. I am hoping to study abroad with one of my Spanish professors, Rosa Lopez-Canete, this summer in Granada, Spain. The Honors College and the EC Scholars program have provided me with a network of support as I begin this new chapter in my life. It has also allowed me to focus on my studies instead of trying to balance work and school or worrying about student loans.

What special undergraduate research opportunities have you experienced at the university?

As I am a freshman, I have not yet had the opportunity for any special undergraduate research opportunities, but I have talked to my chemistry professor, Dr. Allen, about working with his research project pertaining to cystic fibrosis.

What unique leadership opportunities have you experienced at the university?

As a freshman, I plan to be involved with the leadership opportunities available through the Honors College, the EC Scholars Program, and the community.

What are your career plans/aspirations?

I want to be a fluent Spanish-speaking nurse in North Carolina. Because I was born overseas, I’ve always been interested in traveling. I would definitely consider looking into short-term nursing trips to Latin America, where I could use both my Spanish and nursing skills to serve people who do not normally have access to healthcare. I am also interested in getting a Master’s in Nursing, but I am still looking for a specific area that I would be interested in studying more deeply.

How have you made a positive impact while you have been at East Carolina University?

I hope to grow in leadership and volunteering while at ECU. After I take the medical translation English/Spanish class, I hope to volunteer at health clinics translating for the Spanish-speaking patients. I am currently volunteering at Golden Living Center.