Jaden Alston
A 2024 graduate of Edgecombe Early College High School, she is attending East Carolina University.
Medical professionals have held a place in Alston’s heart from the beginning.
Born with a cardiological birth defect, Alston underwent open heart surgery at only three days old. Several procedures followed, including two more heart surgeries at ages 11 and 15 as well as scoliosis surgery.
“The compassionate care of nurses and doctors during these challenging times and the impact they have had on my life have inspired me to follow the same path by pursuing a career in medicine,” Alston said.
As a recipient of the McBryde Scholarship Endowment, Alston intends to major in nursing. She already has experience in the medical field after interning in anesthesiology at Vidant Hospital.
Alston credits her parents, who are both teachers, with instilling in her the work ethic and grit to excel in her studies despite missing considerable time in school with her medical challenges.
Not only is Alston graduating with a high school diploma, but she is also earning an associate of science degree from Edgecombe Community College. Now, Alston wants to be effective in her field.
“I aspire to use my career as a nurse to transform our healthcare system so that African American patients receive equitable services. I will strive to reduce and even eliminate the significant health disparities compared to other racial and ethnic groups.”
Jaden Alston, 2024 NCCF Scholar