Emely Cruz Ramirez
Emely Cruz Ramirez comes from the one-stoplight town of Vanceboro, about 30 miles from the East Carolina University campus.
“If you go to the local Food Lion, you are guaranteed to bump into at least one person you know,” she said.
That sense of community in Vanceboro is just one reason she’s coming to Greenville as part of the fall 2023 freshmen class of Brinkley-Lane Scholars.
“I chose ECU because of the community,” Ramirez said. “I know that I will always have the love and support from my community from now ’til even after my graduation.”
Brinkley-Lane Scholars is 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 a fully funded education, covering the cost of tuition, fees, room and board for both in-state and out-of-state students and unique high impact experiences, as well as the ability to explore the world with a $5,000 study abroad stipend. Scholars benefit from access to an array of leadership opportunities, research with award-winning faculty and a robust alumni network.
“For me, being a Brinkley-Lane Scholar means having an ample amount of opportunity with the support and collaboration of a diverse community,” Ramirez said.
The daughter of Rogelio Cruz and Patricia Ramirez plans to major in computer science while at ECU.
“I don’t know what career I want just yet,” Ramirez said. “I’m looking into being a software developer or a data analyst, and I hope to discover the right career for me while at ECU.”
She’s also looking to take advantage of all the opportunities that ECU provides.
“I look forward to being a part of the Marching Pirates, and I hope to get involved with Hispanic student organizations such as AMEXCAN and the Latino Student Union,” she said. “I am looking forward to making unforgettable memories that happen unintentionally, and I hope to create bonds that will last a lifetime. I am eager for what’s to come during my time at ECU.”
The Brinkley-Lane Scholars program also provides opportunities such as study abroad experiences. Ramirez said she’s looking at Europe, South America or Asia.
“All of these continents hold countries with ample amounts of history, traditions and culture,” she said.
And she looks forward to living ECU’s motto of servire, meaning to serve.
“I believe it’s important to give back to your community, and I admire ECU’s commitment to volunteer service,” she said.
After graduating from West Craven High School, Ramirez plans to spend the summer visiting extended family in Hidalgo, Mexico, the hometown of her parents.
“My parents have always been my drive to being successful,” Ramirez said. “They have always believed in me, and I always have their support in everything I choose to do. My parents have sacrificed more than I could ever imagine so that I could have opportunities that they never had, and the opportunity of being a Brinkley-Lane Scholar is just one of many to come. Because of my parents, I am living my childhood aspirations of attending college for not only a better future for myself but for my parents as well.”
“For me, being a Brinkley-Lane Scholar means having an ample amount of opportunity with the support and collaboration of a diverse community.”
High school: West Craven High School
Intended major: Computer science
Hometown: Vanceboro