Luke continues his academic studies at North Carolina University. Upon graduation, he plans to pursue his master’s degree in forestry and entomology. His goal is to graduate school with minimal to no student debt and find work with the NC Forest Service or US Forest Service in the forest health department to research invasive pests and how to mitigate them in an effective manner.
While studying abroad in Sweden this semester, Luke was recently diagnosed with mouth cancer. He is undergoing treatment but still practices self-care by working out, eating better, maintaining a healthy sleep schedule, taking scheduled breaks from technology and schoolwork to meditate, and read his Bible. Luke participates in Forestry club, the Appalachian Chapter of the Society of American Foresters, and works in his church.
Associate Professor Robert Jetton writes, “Luke is my undergraduate research assistant, and he stands out as a dedicated student and diligent, reliable worker. His attention to detail and understanding of his research makes him an indispensable member of my team that all his peers request to be involved in their projects. As such, Luke would be a deserving recipient of a National Fallen Firefighters Foundation scholarship.”
