Kendall Pixley
For 17-year-old Kendall Pixley, choosing East Carolina University was an easy decision due to its emphasis on undergraduate research, study abroad opportunities and supportive environment.
“I will never forget the first time I stepped onto ECU’s campus because it immediately felt like home,” the Indian Trail native said.
Pixley, an aspiring biology major, was selected as 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 and a stipend for study abroad for a total value of nearly $64,000.
“Being an EC Scholar is such an honor because it means that I have the opportunity to make a tangible difference in my community,” she said.
Pixley has always had an interest in science. While enrolled as a high school student at Central Academy of Technology and Arts, she joined the medical course pathway and took a variety of courses including biomedical innovations.
“Biology was the first class I took as a high school student and I quickly fell in love with the subject,” she said. “AP Biology is what solidified my interest in becoming a biology major because I was exposed to experimental research.”
She continued to explore her interest in medicine by being on the leadership council of her school’s Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) club, volunteering at blood drives, participating in medical debates and interning in a psychiatrist’s office.
While at ECU, Pixley plans on becoming involved in research, specifically with genetics or antibiotic resistance. This will help her achieve her dream of pursuing a doctoral degree to study the issues of antibiotic resistance and possible solutions.
She doesn’t plan on spending all her time in research labs, however. Aside from auditioning for ECU’s symphony orchestra to continue playing violin in an orchestral setting, Pixley wants to study abroad as part of the ECU Tuscany program.
“I have always wanted to travel to Italy because of my mom; it is one of her favorite places to visit as a flight attendant,” she said. “Italy is also so rich in history and culture, and I know I would learn so much from experiencing the world.
Before stepping foot on ECU’s campus this fall as a student, Pixley has a busy summer.
“I plan on continuing to work as a business associate at a psychiatric office, keeping up with my book club, and spending time with my friends and family,” she said.
She is the daughter of Frank and Deirdre Pixley.
“I will never forget the first time I stepped onto ECU’s campus because it immediately felt like home.”
High School: Central Academy of Technology and Arts
Intended major: Biology
Hometown: Indian Trail