Age: 18
Hometown: Chicago, IL
School: Southern Illinois University Carbondale
Year: Sophomore
Career Aspirations: USAF Officer - Fighter Pilot
Hobbies & Interests: Aircraft Modelling, Rifle Drill, Piano, Traditional Art, and Martial Arts.
Organizations/Clubs: AeroStars, Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals, Maroon Guard (SIU),
Why are you passionate about aviation?
One of my favorite quotes is Henry Ford's quote: "When everything seems to be going against you, remember that the airplane takes off against the wind, not with it".
I can say aviation saved my life and gave me a chance to become part of teams much bigger than myself. In middle school, I wasn't necessarily the best student. In fact, I had a .5 GPA at some point. I was considered a failure. The only schools I could apply for at the time were my local high school and military schools. I applied and was placed at AFAHS. Here is where I joined Aerostars and was exposed to all these amazing opportunities in the field of aviation. I got a chance to experience flight firsthand with the Young Eagles Program. The moment the wheels left the ground was the second I was sincerely hooked. I felt this unmatched feeling of professionalism in the alien language the pilot spoke and unreal harmony with everything else around me. My parents wanted me to inherit my father's HVAC job and stay out of trouble. But those were their dreams, not mine. Mine were much bigger, I set my heart on becoming a pilot. I did everything I could to get there. In addition to this, my new motivation directly influenced my grades in such a great way that I got into the National Honors Society and became the Wing Commander for my school! With the help of Aerostars and Tuskegee NEXT, I became more involved with aviation from here, soloing in the summer before my senior year.
So, why am I truly passionate about aviation? Aviation gave me hope to become someone deep within myself I knew I was capable of being, and inspire those around me to do the same.
What is your future aspiration?
When we think of the Tuskegee Airmen, we think of individuals that persevered against all odds. What better way of honoring the Tuskegee Airmen's legacy than by actually setting foot in the roots of their honor and valor. The Tuskegee Airmen desegregated the military to give people like me the chance to fly in defense of this country, its allies, and its cause. I wish to continue their legacy by commissioning as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Air Force with a fighter pilot slot.
Why did you choose to apply to Tuskegee NEXT?
I was originally introduced to Tuskegee NEXT via Aerostars, I was inspired by their honor to give back, to represent what is, and is to come. I took initiative to apply for Tuskegee NEXT to make our goals become a reality. I am ready to embrace a new chapter of life and ride the next waves of youth in minority aviation. In addition, I too wish to represent my community and what they stand for.