Emma Myer-Medina ’24 is Driven by Curiosity and Discovery: Her Path as an Inaugural Textile Pioneer Scholar

When it comes to excelling in science, chemistry and biology, Emma Myer-Medina has always been a natural. 

Given her innate talent, it was no surprise to friends and family when she found her perfect fit in the Wilson College of Textiles’ polymer and color chemistry program. 

This specialized major opened Myer-Medina’s eyes to future career pathways in textiles, medicine, pharmacy, cosmetics and — most importantly — research. While on campus, she dove headfirst into academia after accepting an undergraduate researcher position in Assistant Professor Januka Budhathoki-Uprety’s lab. Through multiple in-lab experiments and hands-on exploration, Myer-Medina’s research examines the structure-property relationship between polymers and dyes.

“I will always carry the research skills I’ve learned with me as I move forward in my career,” the 2024 graduate explains. “I have learned so many personal and professional lessons from both my professors and my classmates that I will carry with me as I go through life. This was not something that I had ever pictured I would be able to do, especially as an undergraduate!” 

A passion for volunteerism led Myer-Medina to another significant campus memory: serving as the volunteer coordinator for NC State’s Feed the Pack Food Pantry — a student-led food pantry open to all members of the campus community. 

As a first-generation college graduate, Myer-Medina proudly credits her Glen Raven Textile Pioneer Scholarship for empowering her to make the most of her college experience and to apply for graduate school programs this fall.

“Donor support has given me the confidence to continue my education,” says Myer-Medina, a Belhaven, North Carolina, native. “Because of this generous donation from Glen Raven, I have had more time to explore my interests in research and give back to my community through volunteering.” 

Established in 2018, the Textile Pioneer Scholarship Program awards financial support to exceptional students from non-metropolitan areas of North Carolina, some of whom are first-generation college attendees, who have a strong interest in the textile industry. Serving as the Wilson College of Textiles’ first need-based scholarship, the Textile Pioneer Scholarship Program awards a minimum of $14,000 to scholars and up to $4,000 in enrichment funds for transformative experiences. This unique scholarship program is made possible through generous donations to the North Carolina Textile Foundation (NCTF), the philanthropic arm of the Wilson College of Textiles.

Below, you can learn more about Myer-Medina’s journey as a Wilson College of Textiles student and recent graduate. 

What led you to apply to attend the Wilson College of Textiles?

I originally applied to the Wilson College of Textiles because I was interested in chemistry. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to study specifically, but I was drawn in by the specialization of the polymer and color chemistry program.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time at the Wilson College of Textiles?

One of my favorite memories has been completing the summer Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program at the Wilson College. REU offered more than just experience in research. I was able to attend professional and personal development workshops and also glean insight into what a future as a graduate student would look like.

What is your proudest moment from your time as a Wilson College student?

My proudest moment was presenting my research poster, “Development of a Protocol for Creating Highly Entangled Hydrogel Yarns,” at my second NC State Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium. This was not something that I had ever pictured I would be able to do, especially as an undergraduate!

What knowledge and skills will you carry with you as you move forward in your life and career after NC State?

I will always carry the research skills that I have learned with me as I move forward in my career. I have learned so many personal and professional lessons from both my professors and my classmates that I will carry with me as I go through life.

How has your Textile Pioneer Scholarship enriched your college experience? What has it allowed you to do that you didn’t think was possible?

My scholarship has allowed me to pursue my interests in research and giving back to my community. Without this scholarship, I would have had to work as much as possible outside of class just to afford housing, tuition and food. Having this extra time has allowed me to do research with professors, join clubs that gave me valuable experiences and get involved at the Feed the Pack Food Pantry.

Are there any Textiles faculty or staff members who have been especially influential during your time on campus? If so, who and why?

There are so many textiles faculty and staff that have been influential during my time on campus! Merica Petteway has been an amazing supporter through her role as the associate director of recruitment and student engagement in the Office of Academic, Career and Student Services. She has helped me so much throughout my time at the Wilson College, and I have learned so much from her!

Assistant Professor Januka Budhathoki-Uprety was my first research advisor, and she taught me a great deal about the process of conducting research and has supported me in my research journey!

Assistant Professor Thomas Schroeder has also been especially influential during my undergraduate education. He is my current research advisor and has helped me further develop the skills I learned from Assistant Professor Budhathoki-Uprety. He also helped me forge my analytical skills as well as my scientific presentation skills.

What advice would you give to incoming Textiles students?

Find the things or people you enjoy spending time with that give you the energy to get through the challenging moments that will drain your energy. Additionally, it is crucial to pay attention to your degree audit and take your meetings with your advisor seriously. They are there to help you!

What are your post-graduation plans?

After graduation, I will be taking a gap year to complete a service term with AmeriCorps while applying to graduate schools!