Alex Puckett
Alexandra “Alex” Puckett said it has been her lifelong dream to become a doctor and help others in need, and as a recipient of the Brody School of Medicine early assurance program at East Carolina University, she is one step closer to achieving this goal.
“Seeing my dreams come true right before my eyes has been an amazing experience,” said Puckett, an 18-year-old senior at North Stokes High School in Danbury, and the daughter of Lee and Angie Puckett. “I am more than ready to start the program, and I am extremely excited for the future.”
Puckett is one of 20 freshmen entering ECU this fall as an EC Scholar, the most prestigious undergraduate award program offered at the university. The four-year merit scholarship recognizes outstanding academic performance, commitment to community engagement and strong leadership skills. Recipients receive an Honors College scholarship and a stipend for study abroad for a total value of nearly $64,000.
“Being an EC Scholar means a multitude of things to me. It means not only working hard in the classroom but in the community as well,” she said. “EC Scholars encompass being a leader in all situations and serving others in need. This is a program that will strengthen skills that I will need in my college experiences and prepare me for my future endeavors.”
As a rheumatologist intern at the Lancet Rheumatology and Sara Lupus Clinic in Winston-Salem, Puckett is gaining medical experience that may serve her in the future. At the clinic, she assists Dr. Nilamadhab Mishra with patient visits, discusses treatment options for diseases, and calls to remind clients of their appointments. She also helps others in her community as a technology assistant at Teen Tech Trainers, organizes TutorChat clubs at her high school and other area high schools, tutors students in science and math courses, and volunteers at the Ronald McDonald House in Winston-Salem.
This summer, Puckett will be hard at work taking a biology and sociology course — two subjects she enjoys — to get a head start on her college education and the biology degree she will pursue. In the fall, she looks forward to engaging in several campus activities, including playing intramural volleyball, and joining a leadership organization and campus ministry.
“I chose ECU not only because of the beautiful campus and the kind people,” Puckett said, “but also for the wonderful resources that are offered.”
For her study abroad experience, Puckett plans on taking part in the ECU Tuscany – Italy Intensives program.
“I have wanted to visit Italy for as long as I could remember, and the study abroad program is the perfect opportunity to fulfill that wish,” she said. “ECU presents me with tremendous opportunities. I feel that at ECU, I can achieve my dreams and become my most successful self.”
“ECU presents me with tremendous opportunities as an EC Scholar and Early Assurance Scholar. I feel that at ECU, I can achieve my dreams and become my most successful self.”
High School: North Stokes High School
Intended major: Biology
Hometown: Danbury