Growing up in a childhood that was surrounded by military service and aviation, I am determined to pursue a career in becoming a pilot. I am currently a senior at Vacaville High School and am constantly getting asked the same question of every soon-to-be-graduate, “What are your plans after you graduate?” After talking with many of my peers, I can say that very few of them have a solid answer to that question, but I do! My dad served in the Air Force for over 27 years as a KC-10 Instructor/Evaluator Boom Operator, conducting inflight refueling. Weekends would often consist of going to work at Travis Air Force Base with my dad where I had the incredible opportunity to explore the KC-10 simulator by practicing takeoffs, landings, flying, and refueling other airplanes. During the beginning of the 2023-2024 school year, my interest and passion to fly peaked. I’ve had several conversations with my dad about the steps to get there and he assured me that if this was what I wanted to pursue, he would be there to guide and encourage me every step of the way. On November 30, 2023, I had my first orientation flight at The Nut Tree Airport, in Vacaville. The instructor pilot allowed me to sit in the pilot’s seat even though I had no idea where to start. He allowed me to fly and perform several flight maneuvers. After we landed, I knew without a doubt that this was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. Once I graduate from high school, I plan to attend a 4-year college where I will earn my Bachelor’s degree. During this time, I am determined to achieve my private pilot’s license and continue my career further. Enlisting in the United States Air Force Reserve is one of the avenues I am considering. This will allow me to serve our country and provide me with world-class flight training. My work ethic and determination will enable me to complete the requirements to become a pilot. My ultimate goal is to eventually fly for a major airline and travel the world. It is my dad who has inspired me to follow my dreams, and who will always support me in my efforts to achieve them. I am excited to announce that I have been accepted into the Aviation and Technology Program at San Jose State University. My parents have taught me the importance of community service and giving back. Sacrifice and service are something that I have grown up around so I have a strong desire to continue paying it forward. Both the Vacaville American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars are organizations that allow us to serve local veterans on many occasions, such as serving meals on special holidays. This allows me to come together and spend time with our community members to show them we are thankful for their service. Wreaths Across America is the placement of remembrance wreaths on the graves of our country’s fallen heroes. Every year, my family gathers at Sacramento Valley National Cemetery where we serve the veterans who sacrificed and served. During the holiday season, the wreaths are placed at thousands of gravesites and then removed once the holidays are over. These volunteering experiences have taught me the importance of serving others and serving our country. Being awarded the Kyle Rairdan Memorial Aviation Scholarship will absolutely assist me in the pursuit of my aviation career. Thank you for your consideration.