Brinkley-Lane Profile: Hiba Hassib
East Carolina University felt like home to Hiba Hassib when she first visited campus.
“I chose ECU because from the moment I stepped on campus, I felt welcomed and at home. I am also inspired by East Carolina’s dedication to service as I aim to center my career around serving others,” she said.
Hassib will be joining ECU this fall as a Brinkley-Lane Scholar, the most prestigious undergraduate award program offered at ECU.
“Being a Brinkley-Lane Scholar to me means being a leader and role model to others and continually working toward improving my community and greater Greenville,” she said.
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.
Hassib plans to study neuroscience and chemistry with a long-term goal of becoming a physician.
“I decided on neuroscience due to being fascinated with the course offerings for the degree as well as the intention of participating in research over the next few years,” she said. “Ultimately, I hope to gain a deep understanding of the brain and combine my love for chemistry as I continue down the premedical pathway.”
While at Wake Early College of Health and Sciences, she has been involved and held leadership positions with several clubs that support her career goals. These include the HOSA-Future Health Professionals chapter, Key Club, the Wellness Committee and Muslim Student Association. She volunteered with the American Red Cross student chapter, serving as an officer and eventually president as well as the state’s youth leadership council.
“Over the years, I have participated in and led initiatives ranging from first aid at the state fair to educating local elementary schoolers on emergency preparedness,” she said. “As a passionate advocate for mental health, I co-founded the Wellness Committee at my school based on action-driven, scientifically backed techniques and principles that we developed into workshops aimed at improving the overall mental health understanding and attitudes at Wake Early College.”
At ECU, Hassib looks forward to getting involved in service and research alongside coursework and all the opportunities offered to Brinkley-Lane Scholars. She’s also interested in student government and becoming a leader at ECU.
Hassib is considering studying abroad in Germany or Japan, drawn by the language and culture of both countries. She hopes to visit several European destinations while abroad.
Before starting classes at ECU, she’s getting a head start on international travel.
“This summer, I plan to relax and enjoy a few months in Morocco with my family before school starts in the fall,” she said.
Hassib, 18, is the daughter of Jalila Chorouq and Mustapha Hassib of Holly Springs.
“Being a Brinkley-Lane Scholar to me means being a leader and role model to others and continually working toward improving my community and greater Greenville.”
High school: Wake Early College of Health and Sciences
Intended major: Neuroscience & chemistry
Current City: Holly Springs