When I first began flying, I solely flew C-172s. Since then, my flight school has purchased Pipistrels. I’ve bene flying off and on since I was in middle school, and now as a graduating senior, I’m looking forward to getting my Private Pilot’s Certificate.
What got you interested in aviation?
My interest in aviation came as a complete surprise. No one else in my family has been involved, but after my first discovery flight I was completely hooked.
How did you get started flying?
My entire flying experience began during a summer. Although I was and still am an avid Girl Scout, I didn’t enjoy the summer camps. After a discussion with my mom about my plans, we decided that I would attend the next summer camp displayed on the TV. That summer camp was a Flight Camp, and after applying for a scholarship, I attended.
What was your first flight like?
My first flight was exhilarating. It occurred during my aforementioned flight camp, and I flew with the only female instructor. I like to think that my passion for aviation stems from the fact that I flew with MayCay Beeler on my very first flight. From then on, I knew I could accomplish anything I put my mind to.
What do you like about flying?
Being in the air is freeing. Looking around and seeing nothing but the blue sky is an amazing feeling, especially when you’re the one controlling the airplane. But to me, that’s not the only interesting part. Even learning aeronautical concepts in ground school is fascinating. I love my ability to be able to explain concepts, as well as understand them and internalize it.
What’s the most challenging part of flying?
Funnily enough, the most challenging part of learning to fly was figuring out where the “center of the runway” was. I struggled at landing with the wheel on the center of the runway, and I even struggled in taxiing on the center line. Turns out, the sight picture I thought was “correct” was completely wrong. I distinctly remember one day before we started the plane, my instructor turned to me and asked, “Amelia, do you need me to show you what ‘straight ahead’ looks like?” When I agreed, he stepped out of the plane and walked backwards in alignment with the wheel. My problem was solved.
Did you encounter any roadblocks on your path to your licenses?
Of course, the biggest roadblock of them all was finances. For a short period of time, I even had to completely halt my training to search for additional funds. Applying for multiple scholarships is definitely the way to go. Only applying for one or two scholarships doesn’t guarantee that you’ll be a recipient. I constantly apply for scholarships. Aviation is definitely expensive, but it’s worth it!
What advice would you give to someone who wants to pursue aviation?
Commitment, commitment, commitment! You absolutely need to make sure to schedule your time to give you enough training for it to really stick. Only going once or twice a week won’t get you as far, and it’s more likely you won’t be able to fly due to the weather. Scheduling out three or four times is ideal (at least for me).
