“If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.” – Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. These words capture how I define success: showing up with what you have, despite challenges or setbacks, and taking the next step forward. My journey in aviation has been exactly that. Step by step, challenge by challenge, victory by victory. Aviation has given me clarity and direction. As a sophomore at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, pursuing a degree in Aeronautics with minors in Uncrewed Aircraft Systems, Air Traffic Control, and Military Science, I know my path to becoming a Naval Aviator is demanding. I was honored to be named Volunteer of the Year in my chapter and now serve as Volunteer Chair, where I organize and lead service opportunities for others. These roles have shown me that leadership is about creating opportunities, building trust, and serving with consistency. They have also strengthened my communication skills and given me the confidence to represent my chapter in professional spaces. At the same time, my training as a midshipman in NROTC has reinforced the discipline, resilience, and accountability necessary for both military service and aviation. In spring 2025, I will serve as a Midshipman Chief Petty Officer, responsible for a division of seven midshipmen. . My aviation journey began in high school, when I received the CNAF scholarship to pursue my private pilot training. I will never forget my discovery flight, the surge of adrenaline as I pushed the throttle forward, the nose lifting off the runway, and the realization that I had found something I was meant to do. A few months later, during CNAF’s Summer Flight Academy at Delaware State University, I completed my first solo flight. Alone in the sky, I felt both freedom and focus, a combination that confirmed my calling. In February 2024, I earned my Private Pilot’s License, and since then I have logged over 100 hours while working toward my Instrument Rating. I also hold a Remote Pilot Certificate, expanding my understanding of aviation’s future through uncrewed systems. These milestones are not just achievements but the building blocks of my career, reminders that every step forward brings me closer to becoming a Naval Aviator. This year, I also began working at the ERAU Student Union, balancing academics, flight training, NROTC, and OBAP responsibilities. Time management, organization, and focus under pressure are daily realities, but I thrive on this balance because it mirrors the demands of the career I am pursuing. My vision is clear: I aspire to serve first as a Naval Aviator, protecting my country and mastering the skills that only military aviation can provide. After completing my service, I plan to transition into commercial aviation, where I can continue pursuing my passion for flight on a global scale. With the support of the OBAP Fall Scholarship, I will continue advancing in my training and education, fully committed to a future of excellence in both military and commercial aviation.

My experiences with mental health, shaped by observing my mother’s ongoing struggles with anxiety and depression, have profoundly influenced my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. Growing up, my mother worked as a counselor in the mental health field while managing her own mental health challenges. Her daily battle with anxiety and depression, despite her professional expertise, has taught me the importance of resilience and the need for ongoing mental health support. Witnessing my mother’s experiences has made me acutely aware of the impact that mental health can have on individuals and their families. This awareness has driven me to prioritize mental health in my own life and in the lives of my three younger brothers. Ensuring that we all have access to mental health resources and support has become a core value in our family. This focus on mental wellness extends beyond our household; it has also influenced how I engage with my peers and community. In college, where mental health issues are increasingly prevalent, my personal experiences provide me with a unique perspective. Research indicates that approximately 30% of college students experience significant mental health challenges, including stress, anxiety, and depression. The pressures of academic performance, social dynamics, and future career planning can exacerbate these issues, making it crucial to have effective support systems in place. My background has instilled in me a commitment to fostering environments where mental health is openly discussed and supported. Moreover, my aspiration to become a naval aviator has further deepened my understanding of mental health. Military personnel face unique stressors, including intense training, frequent deployments, and high-stakes responsibilities, all of which can lead to increased rates of mental health issues such as PTSD and depression. The ability to perform under pressure and maintain mental resilience is vital in such a demanding field. Recognizing these challenges, I am committed to not only pursuing excellence in my career but also advocating for comprehensive mental health support within the military. My dedication to mental health advocacy is also reflected in my extracurricular activities and leadership roles. During high school, I was actively involved in NJROTC, where I served as the Cadet Commanding Officer and later as Teams Commander. These roles required me to lead with empathy and understanding, qualities that are essential for supporting others’ mental health. My involvement in community service, where I accumulated over 250 hours of volunteer work, also allowed me to engage with diverse populations and understand the broader impact of mental health on various communities. I am currently a midshipman at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University where I lead other cadets in my NROTC unit. I am vigilant about supporting my team as needed to manage stress and monitor symptoms that may point to more serious issues. In addition to these experiences, I have taken proactive steps to enhance my own mental resilience. Balancing academic responsibilities with athletic commitments and part-time work has taught me valuable skills in managing stress and maintaining well-being. For instance, participating in cross country and track provided me with a positive outlet for stress and helped me build strong relationships with my peers. Ultimately, my personal experiences with mental health have shaped my approach to life and my career aspirations. I am dedicated to advocating for mental wellness and creating supportive environments, whether through my future role as a naval aviator or within my community. By leveraging my understanding of mental health challenges and my commitment to resilience, I aim to make a meaningful impact and contribute to a more supportive and aware society.

Throughout my life, I have aspired to be a part of many professions. Ranging from being a police officer to president of the United States. I was never completely sure what I wanted to do, because it felt like it changed every year. My orientation changed toward the military around the time I reached my Sophomore year in high school when I was introduced to the military through my NJROTC program. The military intrigued me because it offered an opportunity to go to school for free through one of the service academies or with an ROTC scholarship. At this point though, I was unsure of what exactly I wanted to do in the military as there are so many options. I considered being a Judge advocate general corps officer similar to my grandad as it also aligned with my previous aspiration to be a lawyer. This was my desired course until September of my Junior year when I was offered a scholarship to earn my private pilot certificate for free through CNAF. My dad was a Naval aviator for a short time but I never really considered flying planes. I applied and was soon after, accepted into the program. I took a discovery flight in January of 2023 to see if this was really for me. I met the instructor who would conduct the flight, we went over basic things such as regulations and basic information about piloting a small aircraft, and then went out to the plane. After conducting the preflight and everything, we taxied to the runway for takeoff. When we were getting ready for takeoff, the instructor gave me the controls and talked me through the steps. I held my feet on the brakes and added power with the throttle. The purr of the engine increasing to two thousand five hundred revolutions per minute made my heart race in excitement. For the first time in a while, I felt excitement and eagerness to accomplish a task. I released the brakes and used rudders to control the plane. As our speed increased as indicated in knots by the airspeed indicator; thirty, forty, fifty, fifty-five, the instructor said “Rotate!” I pulled back on the elevator to lift the plane off the ground and used it to also keep the plane level. After this, the instructor took the controls and took me around the Chesapeake area as we did some maneuvers. The whole flight, I wanted more. I wanted to know everything about the plane and what it could do. Since this was an accelerated program; a few days later, it was my first solo flight. I followed the same procedures, except this time I was in complete control. It was just me, in the air, alone and unafraid. Nobody was telling me what to do, I had complete freedom only bound by the limitations of the plane. These feelings that I felt while flying aligned with my desire to be free to do as I please; I felt like I had escaped all of the world's issues. When I fly, I feel at peace, and this is why I aspire to be a pilot. As a sophomore Aeronautics major at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical university, I will use these funds to assist with flight training. I am currently on hold with my Instrument rating due to lack of funding.

My experiences with mental health, shaped by observing my mother’s ongoing struggles with anxiety and depression, have profoundly influenced my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. Growing up, my mother worked as a counselor in the mental health field while managing her own mental health challenges. Her daily battle with anxiety and depression, despite her professional expertise, has taught me the importance of resilience and the need for ongoing mental health support. Witnessing my mother’s experiences has made me acutely aware of the impact that mental health can have on individuals and their families. This awareness has driven me to prioritize mental health in my own life and in the lives of my three younger brothers. Ensuring that we all have access to mental health resources and support has become a core value in our family. This focus on mental wellness extends beyond our household; it has also influenced how I engage with my peers and community. In college, where mental health issues are increasingly prevalent, my personal experiences provide me with a unique perspective. Research indicates that approximately 30% of college students experience significant mental health challenges, including stress, anxiety, and depression. The pressures of academic performance, social dynamics, and future career planning can exacerbate these issues, making it crucial to have effective support systems in place. My background has instilled in me a commitment to fostering environments where mental health is openly discussed and supported. Moreover, my aspiration to become a naval aviator has further deepened my understanding of mental health. Military personnel face unique stressors, including intense training, frequent deployments, and high-stakes responsibilities, all of which can lead to increased rates of mental health issues such as PTSD and depression. The ability to perform under pressure and maintain mental resilience is vital in such a demanding field. Recognizing these challenges, I am committed to not only pursuing excellence in my career but also advocating for comprehensive mental health support within the military. My dedication to mental health advocacy is also reflected in my extracurricular activities and leadership roles. During high school, I was actively involved in NJROTC, where I served as the Cadet Commanding Officer and later as Teams Commander. These roles required me to lead with empathy and understanding, qualities that are essential for supporting others’ mental health. My involvement in community service, where I accumulated over 250 hours of volunteer work, also allowed me to engage with diverse populations and understand the broader impact of mental health on various communities. In addition to these experiences, I have taken proactive steps to enhance my own mental resilience. Balancing academic responsibilities with athletic commitments and part-time work has taught me valuable skills in managing stress and maintaining well-being. For instance, participating in cross country and track provided me with a positive outlet for stress and helped me build strong relationships with my peers. Ultimately, my personal experiences with mental health have shaped my approach to life and my career aspirations. I am dedicated to advocating for mental wellness and creating supportive environments, whether through my future role as a naval aviator or within my community. By leveraging my understanding of mental health challenges and my commitment to resilience, I aim to make a meaningful impact and contribute to a more supportive and aware society.

Growing up, my great-grandmother would say, “if I can help somebody on my way, then my living will not be in vain.” I have carried her words with me through the years as a personal mission statement. In the heart of the community, there exists a beacon of dedication, leadership, and service. As the XCO of the NJROTC unit at Granby High School, I not only rose through the ranks but also left an indelible mark on the community, embodying the principles of service and commitment. With over 250 hours of verified community service, my contributions have been diverse and impactful. Quarterly cleanups at the MLK monument and surrounding areas, both at Granby High School and Granby Elementary School, exemplify the commitment to maintaining a clean and vibrant community. As a member of Jack and Jill of America, Portsmouth Chapter, I actively participated in Adopt-A-Spot cleanups showcasing a dedication to environmental stewardship. The Payne Foundation Annual Charity Golf Classic saw me taking on the role of volunteer coordinator, orchestrating efforts to support a noble cause. Volunteering at the Foodbank of Southeastern VA, organizing Toy Drive collections and distributions with NJROTC, serving meals to community members with Candy Cares (non-profit organization), and assembling furniture for senior citizens underline my dedication to diverse and impactful community initiatives. Engaging in events such as the ODU Big Blue 5K and the Valor Run as a race day volunteer, along with the Color Guard presentations at football games, parades, assemblies, and community events, has allowed me to weave a tapestry of service throughout the community. The grandeur of the VA International Tattoo served as a platform for showcasing our commitment and precision. Beyond the tangible efforts, I have impacted my school community by exemplifying the power of persistence. Earning my Private Pilot License is a testament to what can be achieved through unwavering dedication and hard work. In the face of challenges, I have demonstrated that the sky is not the limit; it's just the view. In the words of Winston Churchill, "We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." This sentiment encapsulates the essence of my commitment to service. Through my relatively introverted nature, I speak volumes with my actions, showcasing that one doesn't need a loud voice to effect change; actions speak louder than words. As I continue to strive for excellence as a undergraduate college student, I carry with me the belief that service is not just an activity; it's a way of life. Through service, leadership, and persistence, I have not only shaped my community but have also inspired others to believe in the profound impact that one individual can make. I am pursuing a degree in Aeronautical Science at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, I am excited to further develop my skills and knowledge in aviation. The combination of my early experiences with flying, practical training, and leadership roles has prepared me to take on new challenges and opportunities. My goal is to use these experiences to excel in my studies and eventually serve as an officer and aviator in the U.S. Navy.

My fascination with aviation began at a young age, and it was shaped by a series of memorable experiences that have guided my career aspirations. Growing up, attending air shows was a transformative experience for me. Seeing aircraft perform stunning maneuvers and meeting naval aviators left a lasting impression and sparked a deep interest in flying. Those early encounters made me dream of one day becoming a pilot myself. This passion was further fueled by my involvement in NJROTC during high school. My NJROTC instructor played a crucial role in encouraging me to apply for the Summer Flight Academy. This program was a turning point in my journey, offering me a chance to get hands-on experience with flying and further cementing my desire to pursue a career in aviation. The Summer Flight Academy not only deepened my knowledge of aviation but also gave me a taste of what it’s like to be in the cockpit, making my goal of becoming a naval aviator feel even more attainable. Alongside my growing interest in aviation, I developed my leadership skills through various roles in NJROTC. Serving as the Cadet Commanding Officer and later as Teams Commander, I learned the importance of leading with empathy, clarity, and decisiveness. These roles taught me how to manage responsibilities, motivate others, and address challenges effectively. Whether it was organizing events, overseeing teams, or solving problems, these experiences helped me build a strong foundation in leadership. Leadership in NJROTC wasn’t just about making decisions; it was also about understanding and supporting my team. I found that being a good leader involved listening to others, recognizing their strengths, and fostering a sense of teamwork. These lessons were invaluable and translated into other areas of my life, including my participation in cross country and track. In sports, I learned the importance of perseverance and the ability to lead by example, qualities that are essential for any leader. As I pursue a degree in Aeronautical Science at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, I am excited to further develop my skills and knowledge in aviation. The combination of my early experiences with flying, practical training, and leadership roles has prepared me to take on new challenges and opportunities. My goal is to use these experiences to excel in my studies and eventually serve as an officer and aviator in the U.S. Navy. My journey so far has been driven by a genuine passion for aviation and a commitment to leadership. Each step, from attending air shows to participating in the Summer Flight Academy and leading in NJROTC, has brought me closer to my dream. As I move forward, I am eager to continue growing, learning, and pursuing my goal of becoming a naval aviator. The experiences I’ve had have not only shaped my career aspirations but have also given me the skills and determination to succeed in this field.

I am a freshman at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, pursuing a degree in Aeronautical Science. With a 4.4 GPA from the IB Diploma program in high school I’ve demonstrated both academic excellence and a commitment to extracurricular pursuits. My fascination with aviation began at a young age, and it was shaped by a series of memorable experiences that have guided my career aspirations. Growing up, attending air shows was a transformative experience for me. Seeing aircraft perform stunning maneuvers and meeting naval aviators left a lasting impression and sparked a deep interest in flying. Those early encounters made me dream of one day becoming a pilot myself. This passion was further fueled by my involvement in NJROTC during high school. My NJROTC instructor played a crucial role in encouraging me to apply for the Summer Flight Academy. This program was a turning point in my journey, offering me a chance to get hands-on experience with flying and further cementing my desire to pursue a career in aviation. The Summer Flight Academy not only deepened my knowledge of aviation but also gave me a taste of what it’s like to be in the cockpit, making my goal of becoming a naval aviator feel even more attainable. Alongside my growing interest in aviation, I developed my leadership skills through various roles in NJROTC. Serving as the Cadet Commanding Officer and later as Teams Commander, I learned the importance of leading with empathy, clarity, and decisiveness. These roles taught me how to manage responsibilities, motivate others, and address challenges effectively. Whether it was organizing events, overseeing teams, or solving problems, these experiences helped me build a strong foundation in leadership. Leadership in NJROTC wasn’t just about making decisions; it was also about understanding and supporting my team. I found that being a good leader involved listening to others, recognizing their strengths, and fostering a sense of teamwork. These lessons were invaluable and translated into other areas of my life, including my participation in cross country and track. In sports, I learned the importance of perseverance and the ability to lead by example, qualities that are essential for any leader. As I pursue a degree in Aeronautical Science at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, I am excited to further develop my skills and knowledge in aviation. The combination of my early experiences with flying, practical training, and leadership roles has prepared me to take on new challenges and opportunities. My goal is to use these experiences to excel in my studies and eventually serve as an officer and aviator in the U.S. Navy. My journey so far has been driven by a genuine passion for aviation and a commitment to leadership. Each step, from attending air shows to participating in the Summer Flight Academy and leading in NJROTC, has brought me closer to my dream. As I move forward, I am eager to continue growing, learning, and pursuing my goal of becoming a naval aviator. The experiences I’ve had have not only shaped my career aspirations but have also given me the skills and determination to succeed in this field.

Growing up, my great-grandmother would say, “if I can help somebody on my way, then my living will not be in vain.” I have carried her words with me through the years as a personal mission statement. In the heart of the community, there exists a beacon of dedication, leadership, and service. As the XCO of the NJROTC unit at Granby High School, I not only rose through the ranks but also left an indelible mark on the community, embodying the principles of service and commitment. With over 250 hours of verified community service, my contributions have been diverse and impactful. Quarterly cleanups at the MLK monument and surrounding areas, both at Granby High School and Granby Elementary School, exemplify the commitment to maintaining a clean and vibrant community. As a member of Jack and Jill of America, Portsmouth Chapter, I actively participated in Adopt-A-Spot cleanups showcasing a dedication to environmental stewardship. The Payne Foundation Annual Charity Golf Classic saw me taking on the role of volunteer coordinator, orchestrating efforts to support a noble cause. Volunteering at the Foodbank of Southeastern VA, organizing Toy Drive collections and distributions with NJROTC, serving meals to community members with Candy Cares (non-profit organization), and assembling furniture for senior citizens underline my dedication to diverse and impactful community initiatives. Engaging in events such as the ODU Big Blue 5K and the Valor Run as a race day volunteer, along with the Color Guard presentations at football games, parades, assemblies, and community events, has allowed me to weave a tapestry of service throughout the community. The grandeur of the VA International Tattoo served as a platform for showcasing our commitment and precision. Beyond the tangible efforts, I have impacted my school community by exemplifying the power of persistence. Earning my Private Pilot License is a testament to what can be achieved through unwavering dedication and hard work. In the face of challenges, I have demonstrated that the sky is not the limit; it's just the view. In the words of Winston Churchill, "We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." This sentiment encapsulates the essence of my commitment to service. Through my relatively introverted nature, I speak volumes with my actions, showcasing that one doesn't need a loud voice to effect change; actions speak louder than words. My current college ROTC unit, combined with my extensive community service, reflects a commitment to making a positive impact. As I continue to strive for excellence, I carry with me the belief that service is not just an activity; it's a way of life. Through service, leadership, and persistence, I have not only shaped my community but have also inspired others to believe in the profound impact that one individual can make.

My experiences with mental health, shaped by observing my mother’s ongoing struggles with anxiety and depression, have profoundly influenced my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. Growing up, my mother worked as a counselor in the mental health field while managing her own mental health challenges. Her daily battle with anxiety and depression, despite her professional expertise, has taught me the importance of resilience and the need for ongoing mental health support. Witnessing my mother’s experiences has made me acutely aware of the impact that mental health can have on individuals and their families. This awareness has driven me to prioritize mental health in my own life and in the lives of my three younger brothers. Ensuring that we all have access to mental health resources and support has become a core value in our family. This focus on mental wellness extends beyond our household; it has also influenced how I engage with my peers and community. In college, where mental health issues are increasingly prevalent, my personal experiences provide me with a unique perspective. Research indicates that approximately 30% of college students experience significant mental health challenges, including stress, anxiety, and depression. The pressures of academic performance, social dynamics, and future career planning can exacerbate these issues, making it crucial to have effective support systems in place. My background has instilled in me a commitment to fostering environments where mental health is openly discussed and supported. Moreover, my aspiration to become a naval aviator has further deepened my understanding of mental health. Military personnel face unique stressors, including intense training, frequent deployments, and high-stakes responsibilities, all of which can lead to increased rates of mental health issues such as PTSD and depression. The ability to perform under pressure and maintain mental resilience is vital in such a demanding field. Recognizing these challenges, I am committed to not only pursuing excellence in my career but also advocating for comprehensive mental health support within the military. My dedication to mental health advocacy is also reflected in my extracurricular activities and leadership roles. During high school, I was actively involved in NJROTC, where I served as the Cadet Commanding Officer and later as Teams Commander. These roles required me to lead with empathy and understanding, qualities that are essential for supporting others’ mental health. My involvement in community service, where I accumulated over 250 hours of volunteer work, also allowed me to engage with diverse populations and understand the broader impact of mental health on various communities. In addition to these experiences, I have taken proactive steps to enhance my own mental resilience. Balancing academic responsibilities with athletic commitments and part-time work has taught me valuable skills in managing stress and maintaining well-being. For instance, participating in cross country and track provided me with a positive outlet for stress and helped me build strong relationships with my peers. Ultimately, my personal experiences with mental health have shaped my approach to life and my career aspirations. I am dedicated to advocating for mental wellness and creating supportive environments, whether through my future role as a naval aviator or within my community. By leveraging my understanding of mental health challenges and my commitment to resilience, I aim to make a meaningful impact and contribute to a more supportive and aware society.