Cassandra Thomason
Cassandra Thomason wants to be a psychiatrist to help people overcome obstacles in their lives.
She was drawn to East Carolina University because of its renowned medical programs. But her selection as an EC Scholar in the Honors College sealed her decision.
“I love how personalized the program is, and it’s very clear that ECU cares greatly about their students,” Thomason said. “I can’t wait to connect with more individuals at ECU and to spend the next four years learning as much as I can alongside my peers.”
Thomason is one of 20 incoming EC Scholars, 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, along with a stipend for study abroad, for a total value of nearly $63,000.
The 18-year-old from Huntersville is looking forward to research opportunities, volunteer outreach, internships and the ability to study abroad.
An intended psychology major, she plans to minor in Hispanic studies and volunteer in the Spanish community while in Greenville.
The coursework will set the foundation for earning doctoral and medical degrees to become a bilingual psychiatrist so she can communicate with underrepresented populations in their native language. “I find the human mind to be so intriguing, and I love how psychiatry involves both studying the body and behavior,” she said.
Thomason – the oldest of four in a tightknit family – looks forward to becoming more independent as an ECU student. “One of the things I am most excited for is refining my interests, plans for the future, and discovering more about myself while growing as an individual through my studies, volunteer work and time at ECU,” she said.
She also wants to study abroad in Spain. “I have learned a lot about Spanish artists, architecture and literature during my classes this year,” Thomason said. “I want to learn more about the country by experiencing it in person.”
At Cox Mill High School, Thomason has been involved in the Spanish National Honor Society, the National Honor Society, Beta Club, FCCLA (Family, Career, Community Leaders of America), Chemistry Club, Key Club, Humanitarian Club and Future Farmers of America.
With clubs comes service, and Thomason has volunteered for a range of community projects from robotics competitions and 5Ks to sewing dresses for children in Africa. A student athlete, Thomason has been a member of her school’s softball team and cheerleading squad.
This summer, Thomason plans to work as a nanny and babysitter for several families, something she has done for five years. Two special trips are planned in June: to Chicago to see her uncle and his family and to Charleston, South Carolina, with friends. “I also plan to spend a lot of time with my three younger siblings because it’s important to me to remain a big part of their lives,” she said.
She is the daughter of Clarissa and Jason Thomason of Huntersville.
“I can’t wait to connect with more individuals at ECU and to spend the next four years learning as much as I can alongside my peers.”
High school: Cox Mill High School
Intended major: Psychology
Hometown: Huntersville