Age: 18
Hometown: Chicago, IL
School: Florida Memorial University
Year: Senior
Career Aspirations: Commercial Pilot
Hobbies & Interests: Airplanes, Dance, Bowling, and Swimming
Organizations/Clubs: Aerostar Avion Institute, Gift of Flight, Studio One Dance Theatre, JROTC, Lindblom Teacher Apprentice Program, NSHSS
Why are you passionate about aviation?
I am passionate about aviation because there is no other career I could imagine being a part of. When I was younger, I was fascinated with airplanes. I would beg my mom to take me to Midway International Airport to watch the planes land and take off. I remember always being very sad leaving the airport because I would no longer have the close-up view of the planes departing and arriving. Being a pilot is perfect for me because I am constantly in a moving office. I am also helping people get to their specific destinations. There is less than 1% of African American female pilots and I am passionate about being a part of that growing 1%.
What is your future aspiration?
My future aspiration is to become a commercial pilot. At the age of 11, I decided that I wanted to be a commercial pilot for Delta Airlines or United Airlines. I plan to major in Aeronautical Science with a concentration in flight at Florida Memorial University beginning Fall 2021. Eventually, I would like to have my own airline.
Why did you choose to apply to Tuskegee NEXT?
I decided to apply for Tuskegee NEXT because I want to be a part of a group of young and ambitious students who are striving towards similar goals as me. I fully understand that Tuskegee NEXT is not only a program that helps you achieve your private pilot certificate but is also an organization that helps you with life skills and prepares you for the world ahead. So far within my Tuskegee NEXT experience, I have been able to meet some of the wonderful staff at the Illinois Aviation Academy. Applying to Tuskegee NEXT has been one of the best choices for my future because I will have lifelong friendships, constant support, and last but not least, my private pilot certificate.