The End of an Era: Reflecting on My Two Years at ECU
Ahoy Future Pirates,
Will Lukas, a senior at ECU, prepares for commencement in May.
With graduation quickly approaching on May 9, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the past two years I’ve spent at East Carolina University as a transfer student. This chapter of my life has been filled with growth, learning, challenges, and unforgettable memories. It’s hard to put into words just how much this place and community have meant to me.
One of the biggest factors that contributed to my success here at ECU was getting involved right from the start. Over the course of my time here, I’ve held multiple student employment roles with departments including University Advancement, Undergraduate Admissions, Campus Living, Student Transitions, Dining Services, and Athletics. These roles not only helped me grow professionally, but they also connected me to a network of incredible mentors and peers. I gained a strong foundation of transferable skills that I’ll carry with me as I step into the next chapter of my career.
Through student employment, I had the opportunity to make a lasting impact on campus, one that I hope will continue even after I leave in just a few short weeks. One of my proudest accomplishments was being part of Pirate Nation Gives with University Advancement. This year, we raised over $10 million in just 24 hours to support ECU programs, a record-breaking effort that I’m honored to have contributed to.
Will Lukas and ECU Advancement’s George Crocker. (Contributed photo)
I also had the privilege of serving as an Orientation Assistant, where I helped welcome thousands of new Pirates over the summer and ease their transition to college life. That role came full circle when I returned in the fall as a Resident Advisor, continuing to support and guide students as they adjusted to life on campus.
These experiences were both challenging and rewarding. I grew so much while balancing academics and leadership roles, and I was deeply honored to be nominated for ECU’s Student Employee of the Year Award, a recognition that means a lot to me.
Beyond my work roles, my involvement in student organizations also played a huge part in shaping my college journey. I served as a Lead on the Homecoming Committee, the Features and Marketing Chair for the Student Activities Board, and as an ECU Ambassador. Each of these opportunities allowed me to do what I love most, connect with people, bring energy to campus life, and share my Pirate pride.
Some of my favorite moments as an ECU Ambassador include our annual retreat to Camp Kirkwood in Watha, NC. It’s always an incredible time to bond with fellow ambassadors, enjoy nature, and participate in exciting activities like zip-lining, archery, and canoeing. Another moment that really stood out to me was serving as a Prom Date for Covenant Church’s Special Populations Prom. That event was such a powerful reminder of how important it is to give back, celebrate others, and be a positive force in someone else’s life.
(Contributed photo)
No reflection on my ECU experience would be complete without mentioning the unforgettable Pirate athletics events I’ve had the chance to attend. From our epic win over NC State in the Military Bowl to the thrilling buzzer-beater victory by the Men’s Basketball team over Kennesaw State during the 2023 TowneBank Holiday Classic, it’s been one electric moment after another. I’ll never forget the crowd storming the court after that game. The energy was absolutely unreal, and it was one of those moments where you just stop and think, “Wow, I’m really part of something special.”
As I prepare to close this chapter, I’m filled with gratitude and pride. I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished, both personally and professionally, and I’m so glad I made the decision to transfer to ECU. This university has not only given me an education, but also a sense of purpose, direction, and belonging.
The Lukas family has deep Pirate roots, both my brother and sister earned their communications degrees here, and now, I’m proud to carry on that legacy. For now, I’m the last Lukas sibling to graduate from ECU, but when the time comes for my future kids to choose a college, you can bet I’ll be cheering for Purple and Gold!
Now, as I prepare to move on to new adventures, I want to leave you with a bit of advice as you begin your journey:
- Be curious – Try new things, join new groups, explore new interests. You never know what hidden passion you might discover.
- Step out of your comfort zone – College is a time for self-discovery. Embrace the unknown, and don’t be afraid to take risks.
- Work hard so you can play hard – Stay on top of your classes and responsibilities, and you’ll find plenty of time to enjoy all that ECU has to offer.
It’s truly been a joy guiding you through the admissions process and welcoming you to Pirate Nation over the past year and a half. I’m wishing you all the success in the world as you begin your own ECU experience. I hope to see you decked out in Purple and Gold, embracing all the opportunities that come your way.
For now, I’m signing off, but remember—once a Pirate, always a Pirate.
Go Pirates!