What encouraged me to pursue aviation as a career is inspiration from my neighbor. When I got done with high school, my plan was to start a program to become a flight attendant. My neighbor encouraged me to go on a discovery flight at Felts field in Spokane. I had an amazing time, and the instructor commented on my performance. That fueled me with excitement, joy, and a sense of dedication. I gained ambition and confidence after that flight. After taking that discovery flight, I waited until winter was over and called the school with a plan to start acquiring my private pilot’s license. Once I got into Northwest Flight Service, I flew every day with a great instructor. On May 1, 2023, I went on my first solo flight. I was by myself, filled with fear and excitement; those feelings were battling each other inside me. Yet there was a sense of calmness that overtook me. Three months later, on July 12, 2023, I passed my check ride and earned my private pilot license. My family and neighbor were so proud, and I believed I could accomplish anything I set my mind to.
A month later I decided to apply to Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. This school is heavily aviation focused and all the students have the same goals I set for myself; being around this kind of crowd pushes you and that’s the kind of environment I needed. Moreover, I could fly all year round in Arizona and not halt my training during the winter months. The biggest challenges I’ve faced are financial, higher education is expensive, self-doubt at times, and having poor instructors. Financially, I knew choosing this career would be a lot but, in the end, when I finish and accomplish my goals, the financial aspect would not be a burden. The self-doubt came from comparing myself to other aviators and their progress. I learned that people learn differently, and comparison would only make me look backwards. I had to advocate for myself when I was having conflicts with instructors and that has led me to ground my confidence and have clear expectations from those I learn from.
In 5 years, I want to be flying planes for one of the commercial airlines, hopefully American Airlines. I want to look back at all the challenges I have overcome and know that I’m strong; I want to illuminate that onto others, especially young adults. I would want them to embrace their journey with confidence, even when the path seems uncertain. Trust your abilities and your persistence will lead you to great things. Allow yourself to be vulnerable and accept help. Create that community for yourself and for others.