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Welcoming Our Newest Students to the Sciences Pack

Students walk past the Bureau of Mines building on NC State's campus

Every August, we welcome hundreds of new students to the College of Sciences. Whether they’re from just down the street or the other side of the world, each of these future scientists brings a fresh perspective and personality to our Pack.

NC State celebrated the university’s largest-ever first-year class — and all our returning students — during Wolfpack Welcome Week, a 10-day sprint of activities and celebrations to help students get to know campus and each other.

Get to know a few of our newest students, and revisit some of the highlights of Wolfpack Welcome Week.

5,030 First-Year Students

NC State’s incoming class was up from 4,664 in 2020.

32,907 Applicants

More people applied to NC State this year than ever before.

17% First-Generation Students

The university’s first-year class contains 5.5% more students who are the first in their families to attend college than in 2020.

Chinazam Emmanuel Chukwuma

Chinazam Emmanuel Chukwuma

Hometown: Aberdeen, Scotland

Major: Chemistry (graduate student)

Why did you choose NC State?: I liked its great reputation, renowned scientists and aligned course modules.

What do you hope to do or experience during your first year at NC State?: I want to explore different research areas pertaining to analytical chemistry.

What do you want to take away from your time at NC State?: I hope to experience a bit of everything: adventure, fun, creative innovation. I’d like to achieve some goals, grow my sense of responsibility and leave more qualified for a career in my field.

What would people be surprised to know about you?: People would be amazed that I can sing!

Emma Hughlett

Emma Hughlett

Hometown: Gastonia, N.C.

Major: Statistics (undergraduate student)

Why did you choose NC State?: I have always loved both science and math, so statistics under the College of Sciences was the perfect blend! I chose NC State for its connections to Raleigh, welcoming atmosphere and student life.

What do you hope to do or experience during your first year at NC State?: I can’t wait to get involved and meet new people!

What do you want to take away from your time at NC State?: I would like to take away new friends, connections, knowledge and life skills.

What would people be surprised to know about you?: I love running! I’ve been a runner for over eight years now, and I plan to run my first half-marathon this year.

Caroline Nance

Caroline Nance

Hometown: Salisbury, N.C.

Major: Human biology, with a minor in nutrition (undergraduate student)

Why did you choose NC State?: The undergraduate research opportunities, the friendly staff and the fact that astronaut Christina Koch graduated from NC State!

What do you hope to do or experience during your first year at NC State?: I was so excited for Wolfpack Welcome Week, and I hope to experience as many home football games as possible.

What do you want to take away from your time at NC State?: I want to obviously take away knowledge regarding biology and nutrition, but I also want to grow as an individual through my experiences here. I’m excited to be a part of the Pack!

What would people be surprised to know about you?: People would be surprised to know I graduated in a class of only 25 people.

Scenes From Welcome Week