WHEN I GROW UP

Video series gives school-age children hands-on experience in their dream career field

When I grow up, I want to be a… dentist, business owner, author.

For most children, the idea of what they want to be when they grow up starts with what they see or experience around them. They may see a parent or loved one enjoying what they do, meet a friendly police officer or are inspired by a teacher.

At East Carolina University, we can help their dreams come true. The When I Grow Up series gives school-age children from many different backgrounds the opportunity to work with and interview ECU students who embody what they hope to be when they grow up – making their dream a real experience.

JA’MYA

Future Baker



Ja’Mya stops by ECU’s School of Hospitality Leadership within the College of Business.

There, she gets to take part in the school’s Luncheon Series, held each semester to provide opportunities for ECU students to create menus, test recipes and prepare meals, as well as host and serve guests.

Ja’Mya learns from Jacqueline deChabert-Rios, a teaching assistant professor, and shadows hospitality management student Nicholas Fair.

JIEONNI

Future Social Worker



Jieonni stops by ECU’s School of Social Work within the College of Health and Human Performance.

There, he meets with social work major Destiny Sanders to talk about why she wanted to go into the field and what advice she has for him along the way.

Jieonni also tours campus and knocks on the door of Dr. Kevin White, one of Destiny’s professors, to have a sit-down talk about social work.

JULIANNA

Future Doctor



Julianna stops by ECU’s Brody School of Medicine on the health sciences campus.

There, she meets with Brody student Katri Thiele, who discusses why she wants to be a doctor and why she chose ECU.

Julianna and Katri meet Mr. Jones, a manikin that simulates real-life situations to assist Brody students in their medical training. Mr. Jones has a cough, and it’s up to this future doctor duo to find the cause and help him feel better.

Videos by Rich Klindworth and Reed Wolfley | Cover image by Kstudio/Freepik