Pirate Institute for Regional Aspiring Teachers and Educators
Rising high school juniors, seniors, and graduating seniors are invited to apply to the free 3-day ECU Pirate Institute for Regional Aspiring Teachers and Educators. During this three-day on-campus experience, proudly sponsored by the College of Education, participants will interact with current ECU faculty, staff and students who are majoring in teacher education.
Participants will learn about college life at ECU, explore the field of education through engaging and innovative activities and make meaningful relationships with peers.
The Institute will take place at ECU on June 16-18, 2026, and students will stay two nights in an ECU residence hall and have materials, meals and snacks provided.
Sign up today, spots are limited. Deadline to apply is April 12, 2026. Applicants will be notified of their application status about one week after their application has been received and reviewed.
Participant Criteria
- Must be interested in a career as an Educator.
- Rising high school juniors and seniors and graduating seniors in North Carolina.
- Have at least a 2.5 unweighted overall GPA.
- Participate in the full three-day/two-overnight residential experience.
- Complete and submit the PIRATE participant application.
- Submit one letter of recommendation from a teacher, school counselor or mentor
- Note: Applicants should have recommendation letter prior to completing the application, as it needs to be uploaded with the application.
Benefits of PIRATE Program
- Engage in innovative and fun activities.
- Interact with a variety of NC leaders in education.
- Develop friendships with like-minded high school students throughout the state.
- Meet current students and hear the stories of their journeys into education.
- Learn about the college admissions process, financial aid, campus life and academic support programs offered.
- Participate in innovative activities and enhance your communication skills.
- Be mentored by current ECU students and faculty members during the program.
- Learn more about the teaching profession through presentations and small group discussions.
- Receive ongoing mentoring, encouragement and support by current ECU students after the program through digital engagement.