Brinkley-Lane Scholar: Gabriela Castillo
Gabriela Castillo knows how to keep her schedule busy, and she balances that time not only among academics, leadership and service, but also with friends and family.
The daughter of Paola and Javier Castillo Jr., she is one of 21 freshmen entering ECU this fall as a Brinkley-Lane Scholar. The scholar program, housed in the Honors College, is the most prestigious undergraduate award program offered at the university. The four-year merit scholarship recognizes outstanding academic performance, commitment to community engagement and strong leadership skills.
“Being a Brinkley-Lane scholar is a blessing and honor,” Castillo said. “I am excited to enter a program alongside motivated students, where I can commit to academics, leadership and service.”
Recipients receive a fully funded education that covers the cost of in- or out-of-state tuition, fees, room and board, and unique high-impact experiences. The award includes the ability to explore the world with a $5,000 study-abroad stipend and pursue additional educational opportunities with a $3,000 enrichment scholarship. Scholars benefit from access to an array of leadership opportunities, research with award-winning faculty and a robust alumni network.
Castillo, who is ranked fifth out of her graduating class of 337 students, said she chose ECU because she was drawn to its strong academic programs and supportive community.
“At ECU, as a Brinkley-Lane Scholar, I am excited to take full advantage of growth opportunities,” she said.
Before coming to campus, Castillo will complete a few courses through her concurrent enrollments at Pitt Community College and the North Carolina School of Science and Math. She also plans to spend some of the summer traveling to Mexico, Canada and Colombia, South America.
In her spare time, she has led others at J.H. Rose as senior class president of the Student Government Association and as president of the school’s chapter of the National Spanish Honor Society. She has managed SGA’s social media presence, volunteered with Riley’s Army and helped others by tutoring Spanish. She is also a member of the Future Business Leaders of America and Health Occupations Students of America.
While at ECU, Castillo looks forward to continuing to serve the local and student communities.
“I am excited to get involved in many clubs and keep an open mind,” she said. “I hope to work with the Student Government Association, Riley’s Army and journalism.”
As for her study abroad plans through the Brinkley-Lane program, Castillo wants to travel to Spain and Italy to improve her Spanish and immerse herself in a variety of European cultures.
While plans may be fluid for many college students, Castillo plans to pursue both public health and foreign languages, with a minor in business administration, giving her a variety of career opportunities.
“I aspire to work in the medical field, in hopes of eventually having my own practice. I also have an interest in working in public policy,” she said.
“Being a Brinkley-Lane Scholar is a blessing and honor.”
High school: J.H. Rose High School
Intended major: Biology
Current City: Greenville