Amy E. Turner
Amy E. Turner wants to help those in need of medical assistance and one day plans to open a private practice in eastern North Carolina.
The 17-year-old senior from Tyner is a student at John A. Holmes High School in Edenton and has dual enrollment in the College of the Albemarle. She is the daughter of Chris and Laura Turner and is one of 20 freshmen entering East Carolina University this fall as an EC Scholar, the most prestigious undergraduate academic scholarship program offered at the university.
“Being an EC Scholar is truly an honor,” Turner said. “To me, being an EC Scholar means becoming a part of an academic community where students support one another and help each other achieve their goals as we all begin this new chapter in our lives.”
The EC Scholars 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 nearly $63,000.
Turner chose to attend ECU because she was impressed with all that the Honors College and the EC Scholars have to offer.
“These programs provide me with special opportunities that will allow me to build relationships with like-minded people and prepare me for medical school upon graduation from ECU,” she said.
In addition to being admitted as an EC Scholar, Turner also is the Natural Sciences Scholar provided through the Thomas Harriot College of Arts and Sciences and the Honors College.
“In addition to the financial assistance that I receive, this scholarship is also special because it links me directly to my biology major,” Turner said. “It has already allowed me to meet current students and professors in my field of study and to gain insight into my intended major.”
While at ECU, Turner is looking forward to getting involved in intramurals, a Bible study group and community service outlets.
“I am also excited to be able to explore research and internship opportunities within biology,” Turner said.
Through the EC Scholars scholarship, Turner hopes to study abroad in Italy or South Africa. If she studies in Italy, she hopes to expand her artistic skills. However, if she studies in South Africa, she would like to be part of a medical team working in a clinic.
“I hope to learn about new cultures and gain a world perspective, whether it be in the field of medicine or in art,” she said.
After graduating from ECU, Turner plans to attend the Brody School of Medicine and pursue her medical degree to become a pediatrician.
“At some point in my career, I hope to be part of a medical mission trip to a third-world country so that I can aid those in need of medical care,” Turner said. “After my residency, I would like to serve eastern North Carolina by returning to my home county, Chowan County, and starting my own private practice.”
“At some point in my career, I hope to be part of a medical mission trip to a third-world country so that I can aid those in need of medical care.”
High school: John A. Holmes High School
Intended major: Biology
Hometown: Tyner