Macon Elizabeth Carroll

Macon Carroll says she has a strong desire to contribute to the greater good.

“Both of the clinical laboratory science and political science programs I will be studying at ECU will prepare me to assist others, whether that be through medical research or helping set policies,” she said.

The 17-year-old from Gibsonville is one of 20 freshmen entering ECU this fall as an EC Scholar, 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.

Having attended a small private school in Burlington, Carroll said she wanted to attend a larger university to have the “big campus” experience.

“Growing up in a small school also taught me the value of community,” she said. “Being accepted into the ECU Honors College allows me access to a more tightknit community within a larger school.

“Being an EC Scholar means endless opportunities. It is almost unfathomable how many various activities, internships and events the current EC Scholars shared with us on Selection Sunday,” she continued. “Knowing that I, too, will have similar opportunities is a blessing, and the focus and value EC Scholars puts on service will provide wonderful outlets to give back in my new community in Greenville.”

Carroll said she’s especially excited to get involved in campus ministry and perhaps even an a cappella group.

“Every person I have interacted with to date has made me feel like I am truly wanted on the campus of ECU,” she said. “Such interactions make me look forward to joining in, engaging with and contributing to this new community and family.”

Never having traveled out of the United States, Carroll is thrilled about the opportunity to study abroad.

“Ideally, I would love to study in Italy,” she said. “As someone who is planning on minoring in political science, I could gain new insights and a fresh perspective from studying this subject in Italy, whose political history is incredibly unique.”

After college, she plans to attend graduate school to obtain her master’s and doctorate to be able to later perform research in the fields of immunology, oncology or genetics.

“Much of my inspiration comes from my faith and from my family, namely my grandparents,” she explained. “Three out of my four grandparents have had cancer. And two of them have survived cancer twice. That motivates me to do the best I can to work towards a cure.”

She is the daughter of Brian and Denise Carroll.

Her summer plans include volunteering at the Children’s Museum of Alamance County and leading dance camps at the Burlington Dance Center.

“Being an EC Scholar means endless opportunities.”

High school: Burlington Christian Academy

Intended major: Clinical laboratory science

Hometown: Gibsonville