Brinkley-Lane Scholar: Hasini Pratapa
Moving to Greenville from her hometown of Apex won’t be a new experience for Hasini Pratapa, an incoming Brinkley-Lane Scholar at East Carolina University.
“I moved more times than I can count and attended over a dozen schools across California, India and all over the United States,” Pratapa said. “Being the ‘new kid’ became part of my identity, and each move meant leaving behind the comfort of what I knew and stepping forward with the hope that something better was waiting.”
And she truly believes ECU is worth the move, saying the university community, programs, hands-on learning experiences, culture and connections to industry will help her prosper.
“I can see myself growing at ECU, not only academically but also professionally, surrounded by mentors and classmates who are just as curious and driven as I am,” Pratapa said. “That’s why it’s the right choice for me.”
Housed in the Honors College, the Brinkley-Lane Scholars program is the most prestigious undergraduate award offered at ECU. The four-year merit scholarship recognizes outstanding academic performance, commitment to community engagement and strong leadership skills. Both in-state and out-of-state recipients receive a fully funded education, covering the cost of tuition, fees, room and board, and high impact experiences. Included in the scholarship is the ability to explore the world and pursue additional educational opportunities with a $5,000 study abroad stipend and 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.
“Being a Brinkley-Lane Scholar means being entrusted with responsibility and endowed with incredible opportunities — to give back and create meaningful impact within my communities, whether local, regional or global,” Pratapa said.
She plans to major in engineering, with concentrations in biomedical and biochemical engineering. She already has an eye on graduate school, possibly pursuing a career in pharmaceuticals or attending medical school. She has already completed her NC BioNetwork BioWork certificate, through which she learned about biomanufacturing, chemical processing and quality systems.
When she arrives on campus, she plans to get involved in research opportunities and explore ECU’s many student organizations. She’s uncertain of her study abroad location.
“I hope to study and serve abroad in countries that have unmet healthcare needs and underserved regions, where I can better understand how healthcare and engineering solutions are applied in communities with limited resources,” Pratapa said. “For me, learning isn’t just about gaining knowledge but about using it in a way that actually matters. I want to make sure that what I learn doesn’t just stay in a classroom or on a test but reaches people who need it most.”
Pratapa said she’s looking forward to summer orientation so she can meet other Brinkley-Lane Scholars. She’ll continue her education by taking a couple of summer courses and will enjoy some time with family and friends before arriving at ECU this fall.
“I’m someone who values growth, hard work and giving back. I want to challenge myself, learn as much as I can and use that knowledge meaningfully,” she said. “At ECU, I’m not just looking to earn a degree but to become someone who can make a difference. And I’m truly grateful for the chance to start that journey here.”
“I can see myself growing at ECU, not only academically but also professionally, surrounded by mentors and classmates who are just as curious and driven as I am.”
High school: Apex Friendship High School
Intended major: Engineering
Current City: Apex