Lea Taylor

Hometown/State: Faison, North Carolina

Incoming EC Scholar Class: 2012

Scholarship(s) Awarded: Bate Special Funds

Major/Intended Major: Biology

Why did you choose to attend East Carolina University?

The most important factors in my college decision were the atmosphere and the strength of programs.  To address the first, East Carolina University has the most welcoming and hospitable atmosphere of any college I have visited.  When I first visited campus, I immediately fell in love with the faculty and staff; they were so friendly and helpful!  Everyone at ECU has an immense amount of school spirit, which speaks volumes about the strong community found here.  ECU also has a strong Biology program, as well as a strong Occupational Therapy program, which will enable me to complete my undergraduate and graduate degrees at the same university!

What has your scholarship enabled you to do?

This scholarship has not only relieved the financial burden of attending college, but has also presented me with many opportunities.  The second day on campus, I received an email stating that I had an opportunity to become an Early Assurance Occupational Therapy Scholar.  I am still in the process of working towards this opportunity, but without the EC Scholars program, it would not have been possible.  In addition, I have had the opportunity to work with amazing faculty in just the few short weeks I have been studying at East Carolina University.

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

As a freshman, I have not yet had an opportunity to engage in undergraduate research, but I hope to do so in the next few years.

What unique leadership opportunities have you experienced at the university?

As an EC Scholar and Honors student, I have the opportunity to participate in Honors Ambassadors.  As an ambassador, I will help with Honors College recruitment activities and serve as a leader in the Honors College.

What are your career plans/aspirations?

When I graduate from East Carolina University, I hope to have a B.S. in Biology, a B.A. in Chemistry, and a M.S. in Occupational Therapy.  After gaining experience working as an Occupational Therapist, I would like to open an occupational therapy clinic for children with special needs.  This is my dream job, and I know that an education at East Carolina University will enable me to achieve my goals!

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

Although I have only been at East Carolina for a few months, I have already experienced many opportunities to make a positive impact.  As part of the Honors College Service Day, I volunteered at a science fair for children in the community.  This science fair really intrigued the children and introduced certain difficult science concepts to them in exciting ways!  In addition, the EC Scholars have been volunteering at Golden Living, which has been an incredibly humbling experience.  Through this service, I hope to give the residents something to look forward to each week and someone to talk to who is genuinely interested in their lives.  However, I am still searching for other ways to make a positive impact here at ECU and in Greenville.