Luke Fogarty
Luke Fogarty grew up in Greenville and is focused on finding ways to contribute to the betterment of the region he calls home.
“I chose East Carolina University because I have always been passionate about giving back to my community, and there’s no better way to do that than by going to my hometown college,” he said. “I love eastern North Carolina, and out of all the colleges I toured, there was no better feeling than being right here in Greenville.”
The EC Scholars program means more than just a scholarship, he said. “It opens up a world full of opportunities, from studying abroad to having that small community feeling among the scholars and being able to work with similarly minded people. “
EC Scholars is the most prestigious undergraduate award program offered at ECU. The four-year merit scholarship recognizes outstanding academic performance, commitment to community engagement and strong leadership skills. Recipients receive an Honors College scholarship for four years, along with a stipend for study abroad, for a total value of $62,000.
Following his high school graduation, Fogarty said he will continue working at a local pediatric dentistry practice, helping members of his community with their oral health care while gaining knowledge and building experience in the field he hopes to pursue. At ECU, he plans to major in business management with an eye to fulfilling the prerequisites for the School of Dental Medicine.
But the summer won’t be all work and no play. He will be traveling to Long Island, New York as well as Calgary, Canada, where he will visit Glacier National Park, a destination he has always wanted to see. He also plans to spend time in his favorite spot in North Carolina — Beaufort.
“After graduation, my best friends and I are going to my beach house for a weekend of fishing and being on the water,” he said. “The idea of a huge party is not quite as appealing as a day spent outside on our beautiful beaches in North Carolina.”
Intramural sports and environmental programs are also part of what drew Fogarty to ECU.
“Preserving the environment that I’ve grown up in has always been a goal of mine, and I plan to continue with that mindset,” he said.
For his study abroad experience, he would like to leave the beaten path and spend time in developing countries such as western Africa or South America. “I would like to go to less financially fortunate places that aren’t so touristy,” he said.
Fogarty is the son of John and Christine Fogarty of Greenville.
“Preserving the environment that I’ve grown up in has always been a goal of mine and I plan to continue with that mindset.”
High school: Junius H. Rose High School
Intended major: Business management
Hometown: Greenville