ECU Student Embraces Unexpected Opportunities Through Red Cross Internship
- “That kind of pushed me toward the health side of things.
- Jayson Arnold,back row second from right,who completed an internship with the Red Cross this fall,stands with other Red cross workers and volunteers.
ECU Student Finds Purpose in Unexpected Paths: From Pandemic to Hurricane Relief
Greenville, NC – jayson Arnold, a soon-to-be graduate of East Carolina University, has learned to embrace the unexpected.From navigating a freshman year disrupted by the pandemic to providing crucial support during hurricane relief efforts, Arnold has honed his adaptability and resilience.
“The disaster relief has been a grate experience because no one expected it to happen… then two weeks later I’m helping out. I’m in the mix,” Arnold said. “It really shows how adaptive you need to be and your situational awareness being on point.You’re doing what you need to do, so it’s really helped me so much and put real life into perspective.”
Arnold, a Sanford native, is earning a bachelor’s degree in public health and a minor in aerospace studies in ECU’s Collage of Health and Human Performance. Inspired by a family deeply rooted in healthcare – his father, a retired U.S. Army veteran, his mother, a respiratory therapist, and his aunt, an ECU alumna and nurse – Arnold has always felt a calling to help others.
“That kind of pushed me toward the health side of things. I’ve had a natural inclination to just help people,” he said. “In whatever way, shape or form, whether it’s hands-on or behind a desk, I just wont to be able to make an impact in the community.”
Jayson Arnold,back row second from right,who completed an internship with the Red Cross this fall,stands with other Red cross workers and volunteers. (contributed photo)
This passion led him to an internship with the American red Cross in Charlotte this fall. Arnold’s experience went beyond the expected, as he found himself actively involved in hurricane relief efforts.
“I wasn’t actually supposed to help with the disaster relief but after that happened, they asked if anyone wanted to volunteer to help out, and it was a no-brainer for me,” Arnold said.
Arnold’s internship encompassed diverse roles, from outreach and securing food and shelter for evacuees to directing and supporting volunteers.
“They gave me so manny different roles, and I’m eager to have new experiences. I told them the different career fields I was interested in, and they helped me take on the role and learn more,” he said.
As Arnold prepares to graduate, he credits ECU’s air Force ROTC program and Capt. Jocelyn Bly, operations flight commander, for providing mentorship and guidance.
Looking back on his journey,Arnold offers advice to his younger self: “Persevere,don’t worry about any naysayers or anyone not in your corner for the right reason. Making sure you stay your path,it doesn’t matter how many times you change your path,just stay head on and know what’s true to your heart.”
arnold is considering a full-time position with the Red Cross, joining the U.S. Air Force, or possibly pursuing both paths. Whatever his future holds, his experiences at ECU have equipped him with the resilience, adaptability, and dedication to make a meaningful impact.
ECU Student finds Purpose in Unexpected paths: From Pandemic to Hurricane Relief
Greenville, NC – Jayson Arnold, a soon-to-be graduate of East Carolina University, has learned to embrace the unexpected. From navigating a freshman year disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic to lending a hand in hurricane relief efforts, his journey has been anything but ordinary. We spoke with Dr. Emily Carter, Director of Student Life at ECU, to gain insight into Jayson’s experience and the lessons he’s learned along the way.
NewsDirectory3: Dr. Carter, Jayson’s story is truly inspiring. Can you share some insights into his journey as an ECU student?
Dr.Carter: Jayson entered ECU during a tumultuous time. His freshman year was heavily impacted by the pandemic, forcing a sudden shift to online learning and a new reality of isolation. It would have been easy for him to become discouraged, but Jayson demonstrated remarkable resilience. He engaged actively in virtual activities, connected with his peers online, and sought support from university resources.
NewsDirectory3: We understand Jayson went on to participate in hurricane relief efforts. How did that come about?
Dr. Carter: Jayson has always shown a strong sense of community spirit. when Hurricane Florence devastated parts of North Carolina, he felt compelled to help. He joined a student-led initiative that organized donation drives and volunteered with local organizations providing relief to those affected by the storm. This experience profoundly impacted Jayson, reinforcing his commitment to service and social justice.
NewsDirectory3: What lessons do you think Jayson’s experience offers to other students facing unexpected challenges?
Dr.Carter: Jayson’s story is a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, we have the capacity to adapt, grow, and find meaning. His willingness to embrace change, connect with others, and contribute to something bigger than himself is truly inspiring.
he embodies the ECU spirit of perseverance and service,and his journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of higher education.
NewsDirectory3: Thank you for sharing your insights, Dr. Carter. We wish Jayson all the best as he graduates and embarks on the next chapter of his journey.