Chris Thaxton

Hometown/State: La Grange, North Carolina

Incoming EC Scholar Class (year): 2012

Scholarship(s) Awarded: Helen McLawhorn Memorial East Carolina Scholars Award

Major/Intended Major:  Environmental Biology

Why did you choose to attend East Carolina University? 

Growing up I was always a NC State fan, and planned on going to NC State.  It wasn’t until I visited East Carolina University and learned about all of the opportunities the EC Scholar Program offered that I even considered ECU. Once I learned of the study abroad and undergraduate research that came with the EC Scholars Award my mind was set.

What has your scholarship enabled you to do?

I have met a lot of amazing people through the EC Scholars Program.  Between activities such as sailing and ECU’s ropes course, I have already grown close to my fellow scholars, and I can tell we are going to grow even closer these next four years. 

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

I have not had the opportunity to participate in any undergraduate research yet, but I am looking forward to the research opportunities the scholarship offers.

What unique leadership opportunities have you experienced at the university?

Being a freshman, I have had limited leadership opportunities thus far, but I plan on taking advantage of any opportunities I have in the future.

What are your career plans/aspirations?

I would like to pursue a career in ecology, but I am open to any other career paths that may interest me.

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

I am volunteering at a local living center as part of one of my EC Scholar classes, and have helped with trash removal on move-in day as part of the Honors College.  The EC Scholars Program offers many service opportunities, and I plan to take advantage of them.