Kassidy Smith, a 2016 graduate of Collinsville High School, has been named a Swain Scholar for 2018-2019. Kassidy is a junior at Coastal Carolina University (CCU) majoring in biology.
Swain Scholars plan and implement community outreach and research projects designed to improve the quality of life of Horry County (SC) residents. Coastal Carolina University is located in Conway, South Carolina, located in Horry County.
The Swain Scholars program consists of selected undergraduate students from the sociology, public health, biochemistry, biology, exercise and sport science, and chemistry programs at Coastal Carolina University. The students will receive scholarships up to $5,000 per year for a total of four semesters, funded by Kenneth E. Swain, a CCU benefactor and retired pharmacist from Myrtle Beach. Sharon Thompson, professor of public health, serves as the faculty adviser of the Swain Scholars.
This year’s Swain Scholars will focus their project on improving mental health for college-aged students in Horry County, South Carolina. They hope to make a positive impact on the health of the Conway, SC community and CCU students by researching and implementing community health programs that focus on depression, anxiety and suicide prevention for young adults aged 18-25. The Swain Scholars share a keen interest in the area of mental health.
Kassidy Smith is a member of the CCU softball team, serves as an ambassador for the Sun Belt Conference and is vice president of CCU’s Student Athlete Advisory Committee. She has worked with Habitat for Humanity and Miracle League, as well as volunteered at her hometown food pantry and library. Kassidy plans to attend medical school and become a pediatric neurologist. She hopes to work in one of the nation’s top children’s hospitals.
“As an aspiring medical student, being part of this program will help me gain experience for medical school and my future career,” said Smith. “I am extremely excited to work with such an amazing group of people who share a love for bettering the health of others in our community.”
Congratulations Kassidy! #proudtobeakahok