Mid Named Bill and Melinda Gates Cambridge Scholar

As a Gates Scholar, Eucker will study at Cambridge University in England for two years in the areas of science and technology policy and condensed matter physics.

''I’ve wanted to study abroad after my time at the Naval Academy for some time,'' said Eucker. ''This scholarship enables you to be with a peer group that is engaged in the world and hopefully will want to someday change it in their endeavors.''

Eucker competed against more than 100 students in an interview competition held at Saint John’s College on Feb. 8. Eucker is one of approximately 60 American students receiving the scholarship, and only the seventh Naval Academy recipient since 2000.

''I’m very honored to represent the Class of 2008 and the Naval Academy. I will bring to the table some of the concerns and experiences I’ve had here to enable a higher level of discussion,'' said Eucker, 21. ''This experience will allow me to build up an intellectual capital and enable me to establish new friendships in other places.''

Eucker, a native of Denver, Colo., is a physics major and service selected the submarine community. Excelling in both his academics and athletics, his superiors laud him as an excellent and charismatic leader.

''He takes advantage of every opportunity to develop into a better officer and truly values what the Academy stands for,'' said Lt. Marlon Terrell, 13th Company Officer. ''I know he will be an exceptional officer in the Fleet that dedicates himself to the development of his subordinates. He is proof that Mids in general do care about the young Mids they lead as well as their own personal growth.''

Eucker said he is looking forward to attending Nuclear Power School upon completion of his scholarship and embarking on his career in the submarine community.

''Submarines go where no other platform can go. In the complex national security enterprise, I think the submarines are most critical as we look to the future,'' said Eucker. ''As a submariner, I want to serve my nation and help promote safety and security around the world because that is the key to peace and stability.''

Eucker said his academic experience at the Academy has equipped him for his upcoming studies and encourages junior Midshipmen to work towards their goals.

''I think the amount of decisions you have to make on a day-to-day basis and the operational tempo of being a student at the Naval Academy is a prime leadership experience that is unparalleled,'' said Eucker. ''I would highly recommend being as proactive as possible towards your goals. Follow your heart and remember the words of Ralph Emerson, ‘Nothing great in the world was ever accomplished without passion.’''