Nia Gilmore

Nia Gilmore is poised to take hold of every opportunity that comes her way at East Carolina University — on campus and beyond.

Gilmore, 17, is one of ECU’s newest EC Scholars and is already taking stock in the academic and social programs and activities available for students who want to get the most from their college experience. She also is an alternate for the early assurance program at the Brody School of Medicine at ECU, which guarantees students a spot in an upcoming class of medical students, provided they meet the requirements of an undergraduate degree program.

“The Honors College, EC Scholars program and early assurance program will help lead me down the path of success while giving me close friends and advisors to support me on my journey,” Gilmore said. “I chose ECU because of the many programs it offers, and the love I felt when I first visited the campus.”

EC 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 an Honors College scholarship for four years, along with a stipend for study abroad, for a total value of $62,000.

Gilmore hopes one day to practice medicine as a pediatrician.

Gilmore, the daughter of Lonnie Gilmore Jr. and Nina Gilmore, said she plans to take time off this summer to spend time with her younger sisters and to enjoy hobbies, such as music and movies, before diving into academics and activities at ECU in the fall.

“Overall, I plan on relaxing since I’ve been working hard all four school years, and I’m looking forward to having a break before college starts,” Gilmore said. “I plan on spending quality time with my friends and family before I go off to college, and I would also like to get to know other EC Scholars and Honors College members.”

When it comes time to hit the books this fall, Gilmore plans to make sure she has time to explore new things.

“I love sports and campus events and activities, so I think ECU will be a great place to have fun with friends,” Gilmore said, adding that she is considering joining a sorority and other clubs.

She is also considering her options when it comes to the study abroad portion of the EC Scholars package.

“I plan to minor in Spanish, so somewhere like Spain would be a possibility,” Gilmore said, “but I’m keeping all my options open.”

For now, she plans to sit back and reflect on her accomplishments so far and enjoy the opportunities they have presented her.

“I’ve worked very hard during my high school career,” she said, “so I am extremely proud of myself for receiving an award as prestigious as this.”