Taylor Cash
Taylor Cash enjoys being outdoors and loves nature, especially insects. While a student at East Carolina University, she will pursue a biology degree with concentrations in ecology and forensic science.
The 18-year-old senior from Greenville is a student at South Central High School in Winterville, with dual enrollment at Pitt Community College, pursuing her associate of arts and associate of science degrees. She is the daughter of Tracy and Eric Cash, and she is one of 20 freshmen entering ECU this fall as an EC Scholar, the most prestigious undergraduate award program offered at the university.
“I chose ECU because it has always been a part of my family,” Cash said. “Also, I felt that the honors program at ECU was best suited for me and my aspirations. The information sessions I attended made me feel welcomed and desired.”
Cash is active through school and her community. She is president of the PCC Engineering and Physical Science Club; vice president of the national Society of Women Engineers club for high school students, known as SWENext Club; design captain of the Pitt Pirates Robotics Team; and a member of the South Central Math Club, Health Sciences Academy and Girl Scouts of the USA, Troop 3013.
She is most proud of S.A.G.E. SISTERS – Serious About Girl Empowerment, a program she founded in 2018 that provides bonding experiences and builds confidence and skills in middle school-age girls. Members are taught about wilderness skills, self-defense and STEM-related activities. Participation doubled from year one, and the group has received grants to fund activities in its third year.
The EC Scholars merit scholarship recognizes outstanding academic performance, commitment to community engagement and strong leadership skills. Recipients receive an Honors College scholarship and a stipend for study abroad for a total value of nearly $64,000.
“To me, being an EC Scholar means I have been given a golden opportunity to further my education and reach my goals,” Cash said. “I value the network of staff and alumni I will benefit from as I pursue my studies and career.”
This summer, Cash said she would like to spend time with friends before they embark on their individual journeys and also plans on visiting extended family. In the fall, she is excited to meet her fellow EC Scholars and get involved in campus clubs.
“I thrive on social interactions and look forward to being part of a bigger community,” she said.
Cash wants to visit Iceland through her study abroad opportunity.
“I have always been passionate about the outdoors and hiking, and Iceland has some of the most amazing locations for these activities. Its natural beauty captivates me,” she said.
While Cash is still deciding on her ultimate career goals, she has some options in mind. She said she will continue her education and earn a doctorate. Her career paths may include researching and teaching the importance of biodiversity, identifying new insect species or using her knowledge of insect life cycles and behavior in a career in forensic entomology, helping police solve crimes.
“I love all things nature, but my fascination with insects will be steering my education and career path,” Cash said. “Many people are quick to harm or destroy the insects, but I see them as invaluable parts of our ecosystem.”
“Being an EC Scholar means I have been given a golden opportunity to further my education and reach my goals.”
High school: South Central High School
Intended major: Biology
Hometown: Greenville