Brinkley-Lane Profile: Hayden Harper
Being the sixth East Carolina University Pirate in her family, Hayden Harper’s decision was sealed when she received her acceptance into the Brinkley-Lane Scholars program.
“Throughout my college search, I was continuously impressed by the ECU Honors College. This wasn’t just the usual advertising pitch; every time I stepped on campus, it was evident that the hospitality and connections that I craved for my own college experience were being fostered by ECU Honors. No other school could offer the unique set of opportunities or felt as comprehensive and consistent as the Brinkley-Lane Scholars program,” said Harper, a Kernersville native.
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.
Harper is graduating from Robert B. Glenn High School and plans to major in biology with a minor in chemistry, with the long-term goal of becoming a pediatric physician assistant.
“Upon graduation, I plan to apply to physician assistant school. Eventually, I hope to return to academia as a professor and have considered chartering a nonprofit in the future,” she said.
Having already dedicated over 1,100 hours to community service, Harper is eager to continue giving back while at ECU.
“Being a Brinkley-Lane Scholar is a commitment to excellence, not only in the classroom but as a representative of the school,” she said. “ECU’s motto of ‘servire’ is laced into every aspect of the program. Our responsibility is not only to the school as leaders in the classroom and various organizations, but also as leaders and supporters of the community that has provided us with this opportunity.”
Among her many accolades, including being the valedictorian of her graduating class, Harper is most proud of being named “Most Outstanding Senior” by the faculty and staff at Glenn High School. “It reassured me that I had made a lasting impact on my community and earned the respect of my teachers and mentors,” she said.
Though she’s undecided on where she’ll study abroad, she’s excited to make use of the Brinkley-Lane Scholars program’s $5,000 stipend. “I plan to utilize every opportunity to cross the pond,” Harper said.
This summer, Harper will complete a six-week EMT certification course with hopes of joining ECU Campus EMS in the fall. She is also looking forward to getting involved as an honors ambassador, conducting undergraduate research and participating in local church and college ministry groups. With her passion for service, academic excellence and strong leadership, Harper is poised to make a meaningful impact at ECU and beyond.
“No other school could offer the unique set of opportunities or felt as comprehensive and consistent as the Brinkley-Lane Scholars program.”
High school: Robert B. Glenn High School
Intended major: Biology
Current City: Kernersville