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Emily Lister

625

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1x

Finalist

Bio

Hi! My name is Emily Lister, and I am from the Houston, Texas area. I plan to attend Oklahoma State University starting in the fall of 2024 where I plan to earn a Bachelor of Aviation degree with professional pilot option and a master's degree in computer science. I am ranked 6th of over 600 students in my high school class. While in high school, I was a member of several organizations including the National Honor Society, National Technical Honor Society, and Mu Alpha Theta, and president of the Computer Science Organization. I also participated in several programs including the NASA HUNCH program, NASA High School Aerospace Scholars, and Clear Springs Scholars. I have earned several awards which include the 2024 National Merit Commended Scholar, 2023 AP Scholar with Distinction, 2021, 2022, & 2023 Superintendent Scholar Award, and 2023 President's Volunteer Service Gold Level Award. In my free time, I enjoy riding horses, ballroom dancing, and crocheting.

Education

Clear Springs High School

High School
2020 - 2024

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Bachelor's degree program

  • Majors of interest:

    • Air Transportation
    • Computer Science
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Airlines/Aviation

    • Dream career goals:

      astronaut

      Public services

      • Volunteering

        Space Center Houston — guest experience team member
        2021 – 2023

      Future Interests

      Advocacy

      Volunteering

      Entrepreneurship

      Janie Mae "Loving You to Wholeness" Scholarship
      As a child, I was always told to shoot for the stars. Little did I know that was what I would literally end up doing. After getting the privilege to volunteer at Space Center Houston, I learned what my calling was by being surrounded by it: space. What lies beyond Earth fascinates me in many ways; I don’t just want to know what’s out there, I want to explore it. My next steps were to research how I could achieve my dream. To become an astronaut, a person either needs 1,000 hours of pilot in command time in a jet aircraft, or a master's degree in a STEM field. Since having a desire to fly runs in my family with both my brother and my dad wanting to become pilots at some point in their lives, I decided to try it. I earned my private pilot’s license and fell in love with the skies, knowing that one day they would take me where few humans ever get to venture. I knew I wanted to continue flying as a career and started researching degrees in aviation. I knew I had found my calling. I am looking forward to attending Oklahoma State University in the fall where I plan to not only focus on my aviation degree but complete a master’s degree in computer science as well. While pursuing my degrees, I plan to enter the cadet program for Southwest airlines, since their work community best matches the airline where I wish to work. After receiving my degree, I need 1,000 hours of pilot in command time before I can become a Southwest pilot. To get those hours, I plan to become a CFI (certified flight instructor) so I can help others discover the enchanting view of the world that I fell in love with while also building time. From there, I’m excited to start building up jet aircraft time to put towards my dream. In the meantime, I’ve become involved in aviation in many ways. As stated, I have the honor of having my private pilot’s license. I worked diligently to learn and perfect not only maneuvers inside the plane, but also understanding the mechanics of flight outside of flying. While pursuing my license, I met many amazing people that have provided me with incredible opportunities, including an aerobatic pilot that took me on a flight to discover the side of aviation often unseen. On this flight, I got to test the limits of aircraft and truly learn what planes and I are capable of. In addition to the pilots I’ve met, I also got to discover a new side of aviation by joining the 99’s Women Pilot Organization. Their meetings and guest speakers provide valuable insight into the world of aviation that helps me learn what I’m going to get into with my future. Although aviation is where my passion lies, I also make time to serve in my community. In addition to earning over 150 volunteer hours at Space Center Houston, I also am president of my high school’s Computer Science Organization, where I have worked with district counselors, teachers, and students to start computer science clubs in the local elementary and intermediate schools. I have served in the National Honor Society, where I have participated in numerous volunteer opportunities as well. My involvement in my community has helped me earn the honor of lettering through my high school’s Parent-Teacher-Student Association, having been only the second student to do so. I enjoy encouraging others to shoot for the stars, just as I was told so many years ago.
      Connie Konatsotis Scholarship
      As a child, I was always told to shoot for the stars. Little did I know that was what I would literally end up doing. After getting the privilege to volunteer at Space Center Houston, I learned what my calling was by being surrounded by it: space. What lies beyond Earth fascinates me in many ways; I don’t just want to know what’s out there, I want to explore it. My next steps were to research how I could achieve my dream. To become an astronaut, a person either needs 1,000 hours of pilot in command time in a jet aircraft, or a master's degree in a STEM field. Since having a desire to fly runs in my family with both my brother and my dad wanting to become pilots at some point in their lives, I decided to try it. I earned my private pilot’s license and fell in love with the skies, knowing that one day they would take me where few humans ever get to venture. I knew I wanted to continue flying as a career and started researching degrees in aviation. I knew I had found my calling. I am looking forward to attending Oklahoma State University in the fall where I plan to not only focus on my aviation degree but complete a master’s degree in computer science as well. While pursuing my degrees, I plan to enter the cadet program for Southwest airlines, since their work community best matches the airline where I wish to work. After receiving my degree, I need 1,000 hours of pilot in command time before I can become a Southwest pilot. To get those hours, I plan to become a CFI (certified flight instructor) so I can help others discover the enchanting view of the world that I fell in love with while also building time. From there, I’m excited to start building up jet aircraft time to put towards my dream. In the meantime, I’ve become involved in aviation in many ways. As stated, I have the honor of having my private pilot’s license. I worked diligently to learn and perfect not only maneuvers inside the plane, but also understanding the mechanics of flight outside of flying. While pursuing my license, I met many amazing people that have provided me with incredible opportunities, including an aerobatic pilot that took me on a flight to discover the side of aviation often unseen. On this flight, I got to test the limits of aircraft and truly learn what planes and I are capable of. In addition to the pilots I’ve met, I also got to discover a new side of aviation by joining the 99’s Women Pilot Organization. Their meetings and guest speakers provide valuable insight into the world of aviation that helps me learn what I’m going to get into with my future. Although aviation is where my passion lies, I also make time to serve in my community. In addition to earning over 150 volunteer hours at Space Center Houston, I also am president of my high school’s Computer Science Organization, where I have worked with district counselors, teachers, and students to start computer science clubs in the local elementary and intermediate schools. I have served in the National Honor Society, where I have participated in numerous volunteer opportunities as well. My involvement in my community has helped me earn the honor of lettering through my high school’s Parent-Teacher-Student Association, having been only the second student to do so. I enjoy encouraging others to shoot for the stars, just as I was told so many years ago.
      James Diorato Memorial Scholarship
      As a child, I was always told to shoot for the stars. Little did I know that was what I would literally end up doing. After getting the privilege to volunteer at Space Center Houston, I learned what my calling was by being surrounded by it: space. What lies beyond Earth fascinates me in many ways; I don’t just want to know what’s out there, I want to explore it. My next steps were to research how I could achieve my dream. To become an astronaut, a person either needs 1,000 hours of pilot in command time in a jet aircraft, or a master's degree in a STEM field. Since having a desire to fly runs in my family with both my brother and my dad wanting to become pilots at some point in their lives, I decided to try it. I earned my private pilot’s license and fell in love with the skies, knowing that one day they would take me where few humans ever get to venture. I knew I wanted to continue flying as a career and started researching degrees in aviation. I knew I had found my calling. I am looking forward to attending Oklahoma State University in the fall where I plan to not only focus on my aviation degree but complete a master’s degree in computer science as well. While pursuing my degrees, I plan to enter the cadet program for Southwest airlines, since their work community best matches the airline where I wish to work. After receiving my degree, I need 1,000 hours of pilot in command time before I can become a Southwest pilot. To get those hours, I plan to become a CFI (certified flight instructor) so I can help others discover the enchanting view of the world that I fell in love with while also building time. From there, I’m excited to start building up jet aircraft time to put towards my dream. In the meantime, I’ve become involved in aviation in many ways. As stated, I have the honor of having my private pilot’s license. I worked diligently to learn and perfect not only maneuvers inside the plane, but also understanding the mechanics of flight outside of flying. While pursuing my license, I met many amazing people that have provided me with incredible opportunities, including an aerobatic pilot that took me on a flight to discover the side of aviation often unseen. On this flight, I got to test the limits of aircraft and truly learn what planes and I are capable of. In addition to the pilots I’ve met, I also got to discover a new side of aviation by joining the 99’s Women Pilot Organization. Their meetings and guest speakers provide valuable insight into the world of aviation that helps me learn what I’m going to get into with my future. Although aviation is where my passion lies, I also make time to serve in my community. In addition to earning over 150 volunteer hours at Space Center Houston, I also am president of my high school’s Computer Science Organization, where I have worked with district counselors, teachers, and students to start computer science clubs in the local elementary and intermediate schools. I have served in the National Honor Society, where I have participated in numerous volunteer opportunities as well. My involvement in my community has helped me earn the honor of lettering through my high school’s Parent-Teacher-Student Association, having been only the second student to do so. I enjoy encouraging others to shoot for the stars, just as I was told so many years ago.
      Craig Huffman Memorial Scholarship
      As a child, I was always told to shoot for the stars. Little did I know that was what I would literally end up doing. After getting the privilege to volunteer at Space Center Houston, I learned what my calling was by being surrounded by it: space. What lies beyond Earth fascinates me in many ways; I don’t just want to know what’s out there, I want to explore it. My next steps were to research how I could achieve my dream. To become an astronaut, a person either needs 1,000 hours of pilot in command time in a jet aircraft, or a master's degree in a STEM field. Since having a desire to fly runs in my family with both my brother and my dad wanting to become pilots at some point in their lives, I decided to try it. I earned my private pilot’s license and fell in love with the skies, knowing that one day they would take me where few humans ever get to venture. I knew I wanted to continue flying as a career and started researching degrees in aviation. I knew I had found my calling. I am looking forward to attending Oklahoma State University in the fall where I plan to not only focus on my aviation degree but complete a master’s degree in computer science as well. While pursuing my degrees, I plan to enter the cadet program for Southwest airlines, since their work community best matches the airline where I wish to work. After receiving my degree, I need 1,000 hours of pilot in command time before I can become a Southwest pilot. To get those hours, I plan to become a CFI (certified flight instructor) so I can help others discover the enchanting view of the world that I fell in love with while also building time. From there, I’m excited to start building up jet aircraft time to put towards my dream. In the meantime, I’ve become involved in aviation in many ways. As stated, I have the honor of having my private pilot’s license. I worked diligently to learn and perfect not only maneuvers inside the plane, but also understanding the mechanics of flight outside of flying. While pursuing my license, I met many amazing people that have provided me with incredible opportunities, including an aerobatic pilot that took me on a flight to discover the side of aviation often unseen. On this flight, I got to test the limits of aircraft and truly learn what planes and I are capable of. In addition to the pilots I’ve met, I also got to discover a new side of aviation by joining the 99’s Women Pilot Organization. Their meetings and guest speakers provide valuable insight into the world of aviation and how to be a more effective leader. Although aviation is where my passion lies, I also make time to serve as a leader in my community. In addition to earning over 150 volunteer hours at Space Center Houston, I also am president of my high school’s Computer Science Organization, where I have worked with district counselors, teachers, and students to start computer science clubs in the local elementary and intermediate schools. I have served in the National Honor Society, where I have participated in numerous volunteer opportunities as well. My involvement in my community has helped me earn the honor of lettering through my high school’s Parent-Teacher-Student Association, having been only the second student to do so. I enjoy encouraging others to shoot for the stars, just as I was told so many years ago.
      Future of Aviation Scholarship
      As a child, I was always told to shoot for the stars. Little did I know that was what I would literally end up doing. After getting the privilege to volunteer at Space Center Houston, I learned what my calling was by being surrounded by it: space. What lies beyond Earth fascinates me in many ways; I don’t just want to know what’s out there, I want to explore it. My next steps were to research how I could achieve my dream. To become an astronaut, a person either needs 1,000 hours of pilot in command time in a jet aircraft, or a master's degree in a STEM field. Since having a desire to fly runs in my family with both my brother and my dad wanting to become pilots at some point in their lives, I decided to try it. I earned my private pilot’s license and fell in love with the skies, knowing that one day they would take me where few humans ever get to venture. I knew I wanted to continue flying as a career and started researching degrees in aviation. I knew I had found my calling. I am looking forward to attending Oklahoma State University in the fall where I plan to not only focus on my aviation degree but complete a master’s degree in computer science as well. While pursuing my degrees, I plan to enter the cadet program for Southwest airlines, since their work community best matches the airline where I wish to work. After receiving my degree, I need 1,000 hours of pilot in command time before I can become a Southwest pilot. To get those hours, I plan to become a CFI (certified flight instructor) so I can help others discover the enchanting view of the world that I fell in love with while also building time. From there, I’m excited to start building up jet aircraft time to put towards my dream. In the meantime, I’ve become involved in aviation in many ways. As stated, I have the honor of having my private pilot’s license. I worked diligently to learn and perfect not only maneuvers inside the plane, but also understanding the mechanics of flight outside of flying. While pursuing my license, I met many amazing people that have provided me with incredible opportunities, including an aerobatic pilot that took me on a flight to discover the side of aviation often unseen. On this flight, I got to test the limits of aircraft and truly learn what planes and I are capable of. In addition to the pilots I’ve met, I also got to discover a new side of aviation by joining the 99’s Women Pilot Organization. Their meetings and guest speakers provide valuable insight into the world of aviation that helps me learn what I’m going to get into with my future. Although aviation is where my passion lies, I also make time to serve in my community. In addition to earning over 150 volunteer hours at Space Center Houston, I also am president of my high school’s Computer Science Organization, where I have worked with district counselors, teachers, and students to start computer science clubs in the local elementary and intermediate schools. I have served in the National Honor Society, where I have participated in numerous volunteer opportunities as well. My involvement in my community has helped me earn the honor of lettering through my high school’s Parent-Teacher-Student Association, having been only the second student to do so. I enjoy encouraging others to shoot for the stars, just as I was told so many years ago.
      Crawley Kids Scholarship
      Although aviation is where my passion lies, I also make time to serve in my community. In addition to earning over 150 volunteer hours serving on the guest experience team at Space Center Houston, I also am president of my high school’s Computer Science Organization, where I have worked with district counselors, teachers, and students to start computer science clubs in the local elementary and intermediate schools. I have served in the National Honor Society, where I have participated in numerous volunteer opportunities as well including clothing drives, community fundraisers, and tutoring others. My involvement in my community has helped me earn the honor of lettering through my high school’s Parent-Teacher-Student Association, having been only the second student in my high school to do so. Serving others has taught me the value of giving to others without expecting anything in return. In the future, I plan to attend Oklahoma State University to earn a Bachelor of Science in Aviation with the professional pilot option as well as a master's degree in computer science. I aspire to become an astronaut and would love to be one of the first women on Mars.
      Reginald Kelley Scholarship
      As a child, I was always told to shoot for the stars. Little did I know that was what I would literally end up doing. After getting the privilege to volunteer at Space Center Houston, I learned what my calling was by being surrounded by it: space. What lies beyond Earth fascinates me in many ways; I don’t just want to know what’s out there, I want to explore it. My next steps were to research how I could achieve my dream. To become an astronaut, a person either needs 1,000 hours of pilot in command time in a jet aircraft, or a master's degree in a STEM field. Since having a desire to fly runs in my family with both my brother and my dad wanting to become pilots at some point in their lives, I decided to try it. I earned my private pilot’s license and fell in love with the skies, knowing that one day they would take me where few humans ever get to venture. I knew I wanted to continue flying as a career and started researching degrees in aviation. I knew I had found my calling. I am looking forward to attending Oklahoma State University in the fall where I plan to not only focus on my aviation degree but complete a master’s degree in computer science as well. While pursuing my degrees, I plan to enter the cadet program for Southwest airlines, since their work community best matches the airline where I wish to work. After receiving my degree, I need 1,000 hours of pilot in command time before I can become a Southwest pilot. To get those hours, I plan to become a CFI (certified flight instructor) so I can help others discover the enchanting view of the world that I fell in love with while also building time. From there, I’m excited to start building up jet aircraft time to put towards my dream. In the meantime, I’ve become involved in aviation in many ways. As stated, I have the honor of having my private pilot’s license. I worked diligently to learn and perfect not only maneuvers inside the plane, but also understanding the mechanics of flight outside of flying. While pursuing my license, I met many amazing people that have provided me with incredible opportunities, including an aerobatic pilot that took me on a flight to discover the side of aviation often unseen. On this flight, I got to test the limits of aircraft and truly learn what planes and I are capable of. In addition to the pilots I’ve met, I also got to discover a new side of aviation by joining the 99’s Women Pilot Organization. Their meetings and guest speakers provide valuable insight into the world of aviation that helps me learn what I’m going to get into with my future. Although aviation is where my passion lies, I also make time to serve in my community. In addition to earning over 150 volunteer hours at Space Center Houston, I also am president of my high school’s Computer Science Organization, where I have worked with district counselors, teachers, and students to start computer science clubs in the local elementary and intermediate schools. I have served in the National Honor Society, where I have participated in numerous volunteer opportunities as well. My involvement in my community has helped me earn the honor of lettering through my high school’s Parent-Teacher-Student Association, having been only the second student to do so. I enjoy encouraging others to shoot for the stars, just as I was told so many years ago.
      Joshua’s Home Remodeling Scholarship
      As a child, I was always told to shoot for the stars. Little did I know that was what I would literally end up doing. After getting the privilege to volunteer at Space Center Houston, I learned what my calling was by being surrounded by it: space. What lies beyond Earth fascinates me in many ways; I don’t just want to know what’s out there, I want to explore it. My next steps were to research how I could achieve my dream. To become an astronaut, a person either needs 1,000 hours of pilot in command time in a jet aircraft, or a master's degree in a STEM field. Since having a desire to fly runs in my family with both my brother and my dad wanting to become pilots at some point in their lives, I decided to try it. I earned my private pilot’s license and fell in love with the skies, knowing that one day they would take me where few humans ever get to venture. I knew I wanted to continue flying as a career and started researching degrees in aviation. I knew I had found my calling. I am looking forward to attending Oklahoma State University in the fall where I plan to not only focus on my aviation degree but complete a master’s degree in computer science as well. While pursuing my degrees, I plan to enter the cadet program for Southwest airlines, since their work community best matches the airline where I wish to work. After receiving my degree, I need 1,000 hours of pilot in command time before I can become a Southwest pilot. To get those hours, I plan to become a CFI (certified flight instructor) so I can help others discover the enchanting view of the world that I fell in love with while also building time. From there, I’m excited to start building up jet aircraft time to put towards my dream. In the meantime, I’ve become involved in aviation in many ways. As stated, I have the honor of having my private pilot’s license. I worked diligently to learn and perfect not only maneuvers inside the plane, but also understanding the mechanics of flight outside of flying. While pursuing my license, I met many amazing people that have provided me with incredible opportunities, including an aerobatic pilot that took me on a flight to discover the side of aviation often unseen. On this flight, I got to test the limits of aircraft and truly learn what planes and I are capable of. In addition to the pilots I’ve met, I also got to discover a new side of aviation by joining the 99’s Women Pilot Organization. Their meetings and guest speakers provide valuable insight into the world of aviation that helps me learn what I’m going to get into with my future. Although aviation is where my passion lies, I also make time to serve in my community. In addition to earning over 150 volunteer hours at Space Center Houston, I also am president of my high school’s Computer Science Organization, where I have worked with district counselors, teachers, and students to start computer science clubs in the local elementary and intermediate schools. I have served in the National Honor Society, where I have participated in numerous volunteer opportunities as well. My involvement in my community has helped me earn the honor of lettering through my high school’s Parent-Teacher-Student Association, having been only the second student to do so. I enjoy encouraging others to shoot for the stars, just as I was told so many years ago.
      A Man Helping Women Helping Women Scholarship
      As a child, I was always told to shoot for the stars. Little did I know that was what I would literally end up doing. After getting the privilege to volunteer at Space Center Houston, I learned what my calling was by being surrounded by it: space. What lies beyond Earth fascinates me in many ways; I don’t just want to know what’s out there, I want to explore it. My next steps were to research how I could achieve my dream. To become an astronaut, a person either needs 1,000 hours of pilot in command time in a jet aircraft, or a master's degree in a STEM field. Since having a desire to fly runs in my family with both my brother and my dad wanting to become pilots at some point in their lives, I decided to try it. I earned my private pilot’s license and fell in love with the skies, knowing that one day they would take me where few humans ever get to venture. I knew I wanted to continue flying as a career and started researching degrees in aviation. I knew I had found my calling. I am looking forward to attending Oklahoma State University in the fall where I plan to not only focus on my aviation degree but complete a master’s degree in computer science as well. While pursuing my degrees, I plan to enter the cadet program for Southwest airlines, since their work community best matches the airline where I wish to work. After receiving my degree, I need 1,000 hours of pilot in command time before I can become a Southwest pilot. To get those hours, I plan to become a CFI (certified flight instructor) so I can help others discover the enchanting view of the world that I fell in love with while also building time. From there, I’m excited to start building up jet aircraft time to put towards my dream. In the meantime, I’ve become involved in aviation in many ways. As stated, I have the honor of having my private pilot’s license. I worked diligently to learn and perfect not only maneuvers inside the plane, but also understanding the mechanics of flight outside of flying. While pursuing my license, I met many amazing people that have provided me with incredible opportunities, including an aerobatic pilot that took me on a flight to discover the side of aviation often unseen. On this flight, I got to test the limits of aircraft and truly learn what planes and I are capable of. In addition to the pilots I’ve met, I also got to discover a new side of aviation by joining the 99’s Women Pilot Organization. Their meetings and guest speakers provide valuable insight into the world of aviation that helps me learn what I’m going to get into with my future. Although aviation is where my passion lies, I also make time to serve in my community. In addition to earning over 150 volunteer hours at Space Center Houston, I also am president of my high school’s Computer Science Organization, where I have worked with district counselors, teachers, and students to start computer science clubs in the local elementary and intermediate schools. I have served in the National Honor Society, where I have participated in numerous volunteer opportunities as well. My involvement in my community has helped me earn the honor of lettering through my high school’s Parent-Teacher-Student Association, having been only the second student to do so. I enjoy encouraging others to shoot for the stars, just as I was told so many years ago.
      William A. Stuart Dream Scholarship
      As a child, I was always told to shoot for the stars. Little did I know that was what I would literally end up doing. After getting the privilege to volunteer at Space Center Houston, I learned what my calling was by being surrounded by it: space. What lies beyond Earth fascinates me in many ways; I don’t just want to know what’s out there, I want to explore it. My next steps were to research how I could achieve my dream. To become an astronaut, a person either needs 1,000 hours of pilot in command time in a jet aircraft, or a master's degree in a STEM field. Since having a desire to fly runs in my family with both my brother and my dad wanting to become pilots at some point in their lives, I decided to try it. I earned my private pilot’s license and fell in love with the skies, knowing that one day they would take me where few humans ever get to venture. I knew I wanted to continue flying as a career and started researching degrees in aviation. I knew I had found my calling. I am looking forward to attending Oklahoma State University in the fall where I plan to not only focus on my aviation degree but complete a master’s degree in computer science as well. While pursuing my degrees, I plan to enter the cadet program for Southwest airlines, since their work community best matches the airline where I wish to work. After receiving my degree, I need 1,000 hours of pilot in command time before I can become a Southwest pilot. To get those hours, I plan to become a CFI (certified flight instructor) so I can help others discover the enchanting view of the world that I fell in love with while also building time. From there, I’m excited to start building up jet aircraft time to put towards my dream. In the meantime, I’ve become involved in aviation in many ways. As stated, I have the honor of having my private pilot’s license. I worked diligently to learn and perfect not only maneuvers inside the plane, but also understanding the mechanics of flight outside of flying. While pursuing my license, I met many amazing people that have provided me with incredible opportunities, including an aerobatic pilot that took me on a flight to discover the side of aviation often unseen. On this flight, I got to test the limits of aircraft and truly learn what planes and I are capable of. In addition to the pilots I’ve met, I also got to discover a new side of aviation by joining the 99’s Women Pilot Organization. Their meetings and guest speakers provide valuable insight into the world of aviation that helps me learn what I’m going to get into with my future. Although aviation is where my passion lies, I also make time to serve in my community. In addition to earning over 150 volunteer hours at Space Center Houston, I also am president of my high school’s Computer Science Organization, where I have worked with district counselors, teachers, and students to start computer science clubs in the local elementary and intermediate schools. I have served in the National Honor Society, where I have participated in numerous volunteer opportunities as well. My involvement in my community has helped me earn the honor of lettering through my high school’s Parent-Teacher-Student Association, having been only the second student to do so. I enjoy encouraging others to shoot for the stars, just as I was told so many years ago.
      Spirit of Wenatchee Aviation Scholarship
      As a child, I was always told to shoot for the stars. Little did I know that was what I would literally end up doing. After getting the privilege to volunteer at Space Center Houston, I learned what my calling was by being surrounded by it: space. What lies beyond Earth fascinates me in many ways; I don’t just want to know what’s out there, I want to explore it. My next steps were to research how I could achieve my dream. To become an astronaut, a person either needs 1,000 hours of pilot in command time in a jet aircraft, or a master's degree in a STEM field. Since having a desire to fly runs in my family with both my brother and my dad wanting to become pilots at some point in their lives, I decided to try it. I earned my private pilot’s license and fell in love with the skies, knowing that one day they would take me where few humans ever get to venture. I knew I wanted to continue flying as a career and started researching degrees in aviation. I knew I had found my calling. I am looking forward to attending Oklahoma State University in the fall where I plan to not only focus on my aviation degree but complete a master’s degree in computer science as well. While pursuing my degrees, I plan to enter the cadet program for Southwest airlines, since their work community best matches the airline where I wish to work. After receiving my degree, I need 1,000 hours of pilot in command time before I can become a Southwest pilot. To get those hours, I plan to become a CFI (certified flight instructor) so I can help others discover the enchanting view of the world that I fell in love with while also building time. From there, I’m excited to start building up jet aircraft time to put towards my dream. In the meantime, I’ve become involved in aviation in many ways. As stated, I have the honor of having my private pilot’s license. I worked diligently to learn and perfect not only maneuvers inside the plane, but also understanding the mechanics of flight outside of flying. While pursuing my license, I met many amazing people that have provided me with incredible opportunities, including an aerobatic pilot that took me on a flight to discover the side of aviation often unseen. On this flight, I got to test the limits of aircraft and truly learn what planes and I are capable of. In addition to the pilots I’ve met, I also got to discover a new side of aviation by joining the 99’s Women Pilot Organization. Their meetings and guest speakers provide valuable insight into the world of aviation that helps me learn what I’m going to get into with my future. Although aviation is where my passion lies, I also make time to serve in my community. In addition to earning over 150 volunteer hours at Space Center Houston, I also am president of my high school’s Computer Science Organization, where I have worked with district counselors, teachers, and students to start computer science clubs in the local elementary and intermediate schools. I have served in the National Honor Society, where I have participated in numerous volunteer opportunities as well. My involvement in my community has helped me earn the honor of lettering through my high school’s Parent-Teacher-Student Association, having been only the second student to do so. I enjoy encouraging others to shoot for the stars, just as I was told so many years ago.
      Joseph Lipovits Memorial Aviation Scholarship
      As a child, I was always told to shoot for the stars. Little did I know that was what I would literally end up doing. After getting the privilege to volunteer at Space Center Houston, I learned what my calling was by being surrounded by it: space. What lies beyond Earth fascinates me in many ways; I don’t just want to know what’s out there, I want to explore it. My next steps were to research how I could achieve my dream. To become an astronaut, a person either needs 1,000 hours of pilot in command time in a jet aircraft, or a master's degree in a STEM field. Since having a desire to fly runs in my family with both my brother and my dad wanting to become pilots at some point in their lives, I decided to try it. I earned my private pilot’s license and fell in love with the skies, knowing that one day they would take me where few humans ever get to venture. I knew I wanted to continue flying as a career and started researching degrees in aviation. I knew I had found my calling. I am looking forward to attending Oklahoma State University in the fall where I plan to not only focus on my aviation degree but complete a master’s degree in computer science as well. While pursuing my degrees, I plan to enter the cadet program for Southwest airlines, since their work community best matches the airline where I wish to work. After receiving my degree, I need 1,000 hours of pilot in command time before I can become a Southwest pilot. To get those hours, I plan to become a CFI (certified flight instructor) so I can help others discover the enchanting view of the world that I fell in love with while also building time. From there, I’m excited to start building up jet aircraft time to put towards my dream. In the meantime, I’ve become involved in aviation in many ways. As stated, I have the honor of having my private pilot’s license. I worked diligently to learn and perfect not only maneuvers inside the plane, but also understanding the mechanics of flight outside of flying. While pursuing my license, I met many amazing people that have provided me with incredible opportunities, including an aerobatic pilot that took me on a flight to discover the side of aviation often unseen. On this flight, I got to test the limits of aircraft and truly learn what planes and I are capable of. In addition to the pilots I’ve met, I also got to discover a new side of aviation by joining the 99’s Women Pilot Organization. Their meetings and guest speakers provide valuable insight into the world of aviation that helps me learn what I’m going to get into with my future. Although aviation is where my passion lies, I also make time to serve in my community. In addition to earning over 150 volunteer hours at Space Center Houston, I also am president of my high school’s Computer Science Organization, where I have worked with district counselors, teachers, and students to start computer science clubs in the local elementary and intermediate schools. I have served in the National Honor Society, where I have participated in numerous volunteer opportunities as well. My involvement in my community has helped me earn the honor of lettering through my high school’s Parent-Teacher-Student Association, having been only the second student to do so. I enjoy encouraging others to shoot for the stars, just as I was told so many years ago.
      Kyle Rairdan Memorial Aviation Scholarship
      As a child, I was always told to shoot for the stars. Little did I know that was what I would literally end up doing. After getting the privilege to volunteer at Space Center Houston, I learned what my calling was by being surrounded by it: space. What lies beyond Earth fascinates me in many ways; I don’t just want to know what’s out there, I want to explore it. My next steps were to research how I could achieve my dream. To become an astronaut, a person either needs 1,000 hours of pilot in command time in a jet aircraft, or a master's degree in a STEM field. Since having a desire to fly runs in my family with both my brother and my dad wanting to become pilots at some point in their lives, I decided to try it. I earned my private pilot’s license and fell in love with the skies, knowing that one day they would take me where few humans ever get to venture. I knew I wanted to continue flying as a career and started researching degrees in aviation. I knew I had found my calling. I am looking forward to attending Oklahoma State University in the fall where I plan to not only focus on my aviation degree but complete a master’s degree in computer science as well. While pursuing my degrees, I plan to enter the cadet program for Southwest airlines, since their work community best matches the airline where I wish to work. After receiving my degree, I need 1,000 hours of pilot in command time before I can become a Southwest pilot. To get those hours, I plan to become a CFI (certified flight instructor) so I can help others discover the enchanting view of the world that I fell in love with while also building time. From there, I’m excited to start building up jet aircraft time to put towards my dream. In the meantime, I’ve become involved in aviation in many ways. As stated, I have the honor of having my private pilot’s license. I worked diligently to learn and perfect not only maneuvers inside the plane, but also understanding the mechanics of flight outside of flying. While pursuing my license, I met many amazing people that have provided me with incredible opportunities, including an aerobatic pilot that took me on a flight to discover the side of aviation often unseen. On this flight, I got to test the limits of aircraft and truly learn what planes and I are capable of. In addition to the pilots I’ve met, I also got to discover a new side of aviation by joining the 99’s Women Pilot Organization. Their meetings and guest speakers provide valuable insight into the world of aviation that helps me learn what I’m going to get into with my future. Although aviation is where my passion lies, I also make time to serve in my community. In addition to earning over 150 volunteer hours at Space Center Houston, I also am president of my high school’s Computer Science Organization, where I have worked with district counselors, teachers, and students to start computer science clubs in the local elementary and intermediate schools. I have served in the National Honor Society, where I have participated in numerous volunteer opportunities as well. My involvement in my community has helped me earn the honor of lettering through my high school’s Parent-Teacher-Student Association, having been only the second student to do so. I enjoy encouraging others to shoot for the stars, just as I was told so many years ago.