Every time I take a remote-controlled airplane for its maiden flight, I feel a deep sense of contentment, knowing that my dedication, time, and effort have led to this majestic moment. The dedication required in creating an RC airplane is immense, and the thrill of watching it take off demonstrates to me that with enough thought and perseverance, anything is possible. When I was younger, my father, a FedEx feeder pilot, would take me and my family to science museums. I was so fascinated by the complexity of flight systems that I often had to be pulled away by my family because I would not leave. I wanted to break down every component and understand exactly how it worked. That drive to figure things out pushed me toward engineering. Seeing my interest, my father introduced me to remote-controlled aircraft, and from that moment, I knew I wanted to be an aerospace engineer. I began designing and building fleets of RC planes, even creating 3D-printed parts to enhance their durability and performance, further reinforcing my desire to develop new systems that improve the aerospace industry. This curiosity ultimately led me to acquire my scuba certification this past fall. Exploring the depths of the ocean deepened my desire to learn. These experiences strengthened my aerospace mindset by improving my problem-solving skills and adaptability in unpredictable environments—essential traits in engineering. I had to use complex calculations, and understanding their importance encouraged me to find the deeper challenges in engineering. During these experiences, I met people from across the world—including Canada, Australia, Italy, and Alaska. These people showed me that despite our differences, we could understand each other and our needs underwater. I realized that diving, like engineering, is strengthened by understanding different perspectives. By working together, we can push the limits of what’s possible. I aspire to become an aeronautical engineer specializing in aerodynamics, aircraft design, and the integration of propulsion systems. With advancements in aeronautical engineering, I hope to contribute to innovations in aircraft safety and performance. Another experience that piqued my interest in aerodynamics was disc golf, a sport that requires an understanding of forces such as lift, drag, thrust, and weight, as well as spin mechanics—all of which are key components in aerospace. By designing RC planes and analyzing the physics of disc golf, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for aerodynamics and problem-solving. In both fields, small adjustments to technique or design can significantly impact performance in flight, reinforcing the importance of adaptability. One day, I hope to look back and see that my early experiences with model aircraft and disc golf laid the foundation for me to pursue flight systems, making them safer and more efficient. This scholarship would provide me with the opportunity to fully dedicate myself to my studies without the financial burden of student loans. With this scholarship, I can take full advantage of internships, research opportunities, and hands-on projects. By investing in my education, this scholarship will not only help me achieve my goals but also enable me to advance aerospace technology, improving flight safety and efficiency. From my first RC plane flight to my latest engineering projects, I have always sought to push the limits of what is possible in aviation. With the right knowledge, resources, and determination, I am confident that I will play a role in shaping the future of aerospace engineering. Looking ahead, I see myself not just as the kid who once launched an RC plane, but as an aeronautical engineer designing the future of flight.

Every time I take a remote-controlled airplane for its maiden flight, I feel a deep sense of contentment, knowing that my dedication, time, and effort have led to this majestic moment. The dedication required in creating an RC airplane is immense, and the thrill of watching it take off demonstrates to me that with enough thought and perseverance, anything is possible. When I was younger, my father, a FedEx feeder pilot, would take me and my family to science museums. I was so fascinated by the complexity of flight systems that I often had to be pulled away by my family because I would not leave. I wanted to break down every component and understand exactly how it worked. That drive to figure things out pushed me toward engineering. Seeing my interest, my father introduced me to remote-controlled aircraft, and from that moment, I knew I wanted to be an aerospace engineer. I began designing and building fleets of RC planes, even creating 3D-printed parts to enhance their durability and performance, further reinforcing my desire to develop new systems that improve the aerospace industry. This curiosity ultimately led me to acquire my scuba certification this past fall. Exploring the depths of the ocean deepened my desire to learn. These experiences strengthened my aerospace mindset by improving my problem-solving skills and adaptability in unpredictable environments—essential traits in engineering. I had to use complex calculations, and understanding their importance encouraged me to find the deeper challenges in engineering. During these experiences, I met people from across the world—including Canada, Australia, Italy, and Alaska. These people showed me that despite our differences, we could understand each other and our needs underwater. I realized that diving, like engineering, is strengthened by understanding different perspectives. By working together, we can push the limits of what’s possible. I aspire to become an aeronautical engineer specializing in aerodynamics, aircraft design, and the integration of propulsion systems. With advancements in aeronautical engineering, I hope to contribute to innovations in aircraft safety and performance. Another experience that piqued my interest in aerodynamics was disc golf, a sport that requires an understanding of forces such as lift, drag, thrust, and weight, as well as spin mechanics—all of which are key components in aerospace. By designing RC planes and analyzing the physics of disc golf, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for aerodynamics and problem-solving. In both fields, small adjustments to technique or design can significantly impact performance in flight, reinforcing the importance of adaptability. One day, I hope to look back and see that my early experiences with model aircraft and disc golf laid the foundation for me to pursue flight systems, making them safer and more efficient. This scholarship would provide me with the opportunity to fully dedicate myself to my studies without the financial burden of student loans. With this scholarship, I can take full advantage of internships, research opportunities, and hands-on projects. By investing in my education, this scholarship will not only help me achieve my goals but also enable me to advance aerospace technology, improving flight safety and efficiency. From my first RC plane flight to my latest engineering projects, I have always sought to push the limits of what is possible in aviation. With the right knowledge, resources, and determination, I am confident that I will play a role in shaping the future of aerospace engineering. Looking ahead, I see myself not just as the kid who once launched an RC plane, but as an aeronautical engineer designing the future of flight.