Brinkley-Lane Scholar: Kathryn Adkins
Eighteen-year-old Kathryn Adkins’ resume lists numerous reasons she would be a welcome addition to Pirate Nation: two pages of extracurricular activities, including tennis championships and club participation and a page of educational awards and honors.
Those accomplishments, combined with a high GPA, leadership roles and community service, are why Adkins was named a 2024 Brinkley-Lane Scholar.
“When I found out that I had received the Brinkley-Lane, I went through a range of emotions,” said Adkins. “I think the first thing that went through my mind was that all my hard work had paid off, and I had the opportunity to join and participate in such a distinguished program.”
Brinkley-Lane Scholars is the most prestigious undergraduate award program offered at East Carolina University. 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.
“Being a Brinkley-Lane Scholar means that I have an opportunity to join a passionate community that I know will continuously support all of my aspirations,” said Adkins. “As a Brinkley-Lane Scholar, I am excited to build new relationships, strengthen my service leadership and gain knowledge-enhancing experiences that will shape my future.”
Adkins hopes to get involved with ECU athletics when she comes to campus. She has a passion for photography and dreams of joining a professional sports team as its social media coordinator. The combination of her passions is driving her degree decision.
“I intend to double major in marketing and communication to pursue a career in the athletics industry,” Adkins said. “Through East Carolina’s programs, I wish to network in the extensive sports industry while learning valuable life lessons and critical thinking skills.”
First things first, however. Before stepping foot on campus, Adkins plans to visit 21 states in 23 days over the summer, and when she arrives on campus as a first-year student, her goals are simple.
“I plan on taking a first day-of-class picture for my mom and making the first of many visits to the local Chick-fil-A,” she said.
Another visit Adkins has planned is to study in Australia.
“I hope by studying abroad, I will expand my knowledge of marketing strategies and the growth of efficient practices worldwide,” said Adkins.
Whenever a new class of Brinkley-Lane Scholars is announced, Pirate Nation watches with anticipation and roots for their success. What would Adkins like the curious and supportive alumni to know?
“I am so excited to step on campus in the fall,” said Adkins. “ECU has a community like no other, and I look forward to meeting the many students who make it up.”
“Being a Brinkley-Lane Scholar means that I am afforded the opportunity to join a passionate community that I know will continuously support all of my aspirations.”
High school: Fike High School
Intended major: Marketing and communication
Current City: Wilson