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Koleen Garrett

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Finalist

Bio

My name is Koleen Garrett, and I’m a full-time aviation student at Liberty University for my BA in Aviation, currently completing ground school at U.S. Aviation Academy in Denton, Texas. After years devoted to raising my children and overcoming a difficult divorce, with the help of God who I seeked after, helped me regain my faith and strength. With that said, I made the bold decision to return to school and pursue my lifelong dream of becoming a pilot . I strive to help others. I relocated six hours away from my family with just 16 hours’ notice, and I’m now working toward my R-ATP certification with plans to earn a Master’s in Aerospace Engineering. I’ve served on the school board of trustees, led PTO and fundraising initiatives, coached youth sports, and launched a small outdoor business. My leadership has always been rooted in service—whether advocating for justice, mentoring young people, or building community programs. I’m currently seeking financial support to stay in school and cover basic needs like tuition, uniforms, books, and rent. My journey is powered by faith, resilience, and a mission to serve others through aviation, innovation, and humanitarian outreach. I look forward to flying you one day. God bless.

Education

Liberty University

Bachelor's degree program
2025 - 2029
  • Minors:
    • Science, Technology and Society

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Master's degree program

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Airlines/Aviation

    • Dream career goals:

      Aviation, Professional Private Pilot, Aeronautical, Aerospace Engineering, Missionaries,

      TAMIU ROTC Leadership Values Scholarship
      One leadership lesson from ROTC that I will use to prepare myself for both my Army career and my civilian aviation path is the principle of “Be, Know, Do.” This leadership model stands out to me because it aligns directly with the standards I have learned through aviation training, academic excellence, and service‑oriented organizations. As a junior at Liberty University pursuing my B.S. in Aviation with a 4.0 GPA, a member of Omega Nu Lambda and the National Honor Society, and a student progressing toward my M.S. in Aerospace Engineering, I have learned that leadership is not defined by position but by character, competence, and action. ROTC’s “Be, Know, Do” framework gives me a clear structure for how to continue developing as a leader in both the Army Reserve WOFT pipeline and the aviation industry. The first component, “Be,” focuses on character. Aviation and military leadership both demand integrity, discipline, and accountability. My involvement in organizations such as The Ninety‑Nines, Women in Aviation International, and the Soaring Club of Houston has reinforced the importance of professionalism, mentorship, and service. Relocating to Denton, Texas to train with USAA required resilience, independence, and a strong sense of purpose. I have flown gliders, UAS, and Cessna 152 and 172S aircraft, and even trained in combat‑style flight maneuvers and single‑engine stalls—experiences that taught me humility, responsibility, and calm under pressure. ROTC emphasizes that character is the foundation of leadership, and I plan to continue strengthening qualities such as integrity, perseverance, and selfless service. The second component, “Know,” emphasizes competence. Aviation is a field where technical knowledge directly affects safety and mission success. My academic path—balancing upper‑level aviation coursework with graduate‑level aerospace engineering—has taught me the importance of mastering complex material and applying it in real‑world scenarios. ROTC adds another layer by teaching tactical knowledge, communication, and team leadership. As I pursue the Army Reserve WOFT track, I understand that competence is not optional; it is essential. I will continue to study, train, and refine my skills so I can lead confidently in both military and civilian aviation environments. The final component, “Do,” is about action. ROTC teaches that leadership is ultimately measured by what you do. In aviation, this means making timely decisions, communicating clearly, and taking responsibility for outcomes. In the Army, it means stepping up, setting the example, and putting the mission and the team first. I love helping people and giving back to my community, and service is something I naturally thrive in. I plan to apply this lesson by being proactive, dependable, and mission‑focused—whether I am leading Soldiers, flying aircraft, or serving in a technical aerospace role. By applying “Be, Know, Do,” I am preparing myself to lead with character, competence, and action. This leadership model will guide me as I continue my academic journey, advance in the WOFT process, and build a career dedicated to aviation, service, and excellence.
      Koleen Garrett Student Profile | Bold.org