Since kindergarten, I knew I wanted to be a teacher, but teach what? At the age of 21, I became a high school English teacher, not because it was my favorite subject, but because it was what was open at the time. I absolutely love teaching high school. Fifteen years later I realized I could teach something I truly love, and now, I am doing everything in my power to pivot. Aviation became my passion later in life because I didn’t even know it was an option: I didn’t grow up around pilots, or availability to planes. When I discovered it, it took hold of me in a way I never expected. My friend booked us a scenic flight over the Grand Canyon, and that is when I realized flying isn’t just meant to be for transportation only. As we were flying through “The Ditch,” I had an epiphany: the pilot wasn’t just ensuring the safety of everyone on board, but also offering a perspective of the world that otherwise many wouldn’t have experienced. Flying isn’t just about getting from point A to point B, but it’s about sharing the world’s beauty whilst keeping them safe. Over the next few days, following the Grand Canyon flight, I realized that as much as I wanted to become a pilot and share the world with people, I wanted to do more with it—I didn’t want to leave teaching. "Non nobis solum nati sumus," means “Not for ourselves alone are we born" by philosopher Cicero—I’m driven to help others. I started looking into ways that my ratings could help others, and I discovered that I could merge flying with my passion for teaching as a CFI/CFII and even teach aviation in high schools. I also learned about becoming a volunteer with Pilots N Paws—I was hooked. Aviation is expensive, and I’m currently working one full-time, and two part-time jobs to try and help finance my training. People don’t understand how I have the ambition to work, study, and fly. To be honest, I don’t really know what to tell them other than I’m laser focused and believe in what I’m doing. I want to lead students towards graduating high school with an opportunity for a real career. Knowing that I’m doing this not for me, but to help others is what keeps me going and makes me feel like a real leader. Becoming an instructor for AOPA’s You Can Fly program, which introduces aviation to high school students, would be a natural extension of my passion for teaching. I want to be able to help introduce more people to this profession, especially younger people. I help students discover their passions and enter whatever field they are interested in by helping them apply, helping them craft their essays, and find scholarship opportunities. Nevertheless, career and technical education (CTE) is more up their alley, and aviation should absolutely be represented. As a female pilot, I would be able to recruit students from all genders because students would see that this is a possible and viable path. Once qualified, and on my way to gathering advanced ratings, I will happily offer free groundwork to student pilots. I’ve gotten help in my aviation aspirations, and I would never hesitate to give back. Outside of the classroom, I would be a committed CFI/CFII helping others tap into their potential. The Grand Canyon flight pushed me to explore possibilities I didn’t know existed, revealing opportunities and strengths I didn’t know about. I know I’m late to the game, but I’m here now: ready to teach, fly and help rescues.

Between teaching, tutoring, and flight training, my days have been a blur of responsibilities, lessons, and flights. Although I’ve always been a planner, and extremely organized, I have had to level up (even for me). I have come to rely heavily on routines and lists to make sure that I am dialed in throughout my days and tasks, and that nothing slipped through the cracks. Balancing everything, including starting over in a new location, focusing on a new career hasn’t been easy. I’m taking it one day at a time. To say it hasn’t been a rollercoaster would be a lie. The biggest challenge I’ve been facing are the finances/time: I’m working two full time jobs, and studying constantly. The way I’m trying to overcome this challenge is by tirelessly applying for scholarships. I have yet to win though. I’ll get there! This scholarship would help me give back to my community in new and old ways because it would help reduce the number of hours I work at my second job. It would allow me to not only focus on my flight training, but volunteer at airports, shows, and events. Additionally, I’d be able to continue my volunteering at the Zoo, and help students outside of the school day. Growing up, my father collected stamps, and his stamp book was a cherished connection between him and my grandfather. When my grandfather passed, my father moved to America with me at the age of two. In the chaos of the fall of the USSR, my grandmother, overwhelmed with grief about the state of the country and that my father and I left, threw away everything—including the stamp book. Years later, when my father and I returned to Russia, he was heartbroken to find it was gone. He specifically went to find it to show me one particular stamp—a rare hummingbird stamp—he and my grandfather found together. He wanted to gift me the hummingbird. I had never met my grandfather, and he wanted me to have the book as a piece of him. My father told me that when they found the stamp, neither of them thought they would ever see a hummingbird in real life, and that the first time he saw one in America he teared up, and thought about his father and the stamp. I started collecting stamps myself, including an aviation-themed collection that honors aviation history, and recently a new Ansel Adams collection was released. As I’m an avid backpacker and admire his photography of the wilderness, I purchased it immediately. I mail my friends handwritten cards, and I love selecting stamps I know they would personally love. Sometimes we need a smile in the mail, not another bill, and it’s come to the point that my friends look forward to the stamps I select on their envelope, as much as they do the cards themselves. Philately, to me, isn’t just about collecting stamps, but about sharing something meaningful with people. In today’s fast-paced world, where technology often replaces personal interaction, sending a thoughtful card with a carefully selected stamp can remind people they matter, versus just a quick “like” on social media. I love writing and keeping in touch with my friends through handwritten notes, and I encourage everyone to do it. By sharing stamps, we share our stories, our passions, and our memories. It’s a personal touch that’s increasingly rare in today’s digital age, and I truly believe it’s one worth preserving. A forever stamp is forever, not just in price, but in a forever connection with people, as well.

As an educator, I’ve always believed in the power of teaching to shape the future. I would like to continue to teach high school; however, pivot towards becoming an instructor for AOPA’s You Can Fly! program which brings the aviation STEM program to high schools. I want to be able to help introduce more people to this profession, especially younger people. I currently work at a school that has many students from underrepresented backgrounds, and college isn’t necessarily something they are interested in, but flying could absolutely be something they would potentially be interested in exploring, provided the opportunity. As a female pilot, I would be able to help recruit students from all genders because students would see that this is a possible and viable path. I have been trying to figure out the finances of flight training for a very long time: I took out a 0% credit card. The credit card is for 21 months on new purchases. This helped at least start my training, and I am looking into getting the balance increased until I have earned a scholarship. On top of my 40 hour work week as a teacher, I tutor after school on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, as well as Saturday and Sundays resulting in 35 extra hours per week. I have not been a person who needs a lot of things, but since I moved from the San Francisco Bay Area I have had to cut many things from my life. Like Kerry, I try to make a small amount of money go a long way, with my beat up Honda. I have zero subscriptions that I pay for, and in order to work remotely for tutoring, I even have borrowed a hot spot from the local library in order to not have the added monthly expense of internet each month. Additionally, at the library, I have been able to get all of my aviation study materials! The community has been very generous with a headset, a kneeboard, and other supplies, so I have not had to purchase any of those materials. I have paused attending any social events; such as, concerts, or shows. Traveling in general has been halted. I’d like to make it clear - I have no qualms or regrets about this - I have my focus on flying and I enjoy it so much that I know it is worth it. I’ve never been one to worry about hair and make up, so luckily I have no problems cutting my own hair, and giving myself home manicures. I’m completing chair flying time, and meal prepping constantly to save money whenever I can. Driving to and from the airport in my older vehicle is working out great, and I am not anticipating any large purchases any time soon. The airport that I am training out of is a bit out of the way, and is 30 minutes farther away from me than my local airport; however, the airport I have chosen has an incredible support system, and the wait to hold short is significantly shorter than the nearby airports. Therefore, I may have to drive farther but I am ultimately flying more for the same price, since I am not waiting a lot time to be cleared for take off, and this airport is right next to the practice field that all of the surrounding airports need to fly to regardless. If I’m willing to sacrifice so many things - I know I want this. With this type of mindset it also helps me stay focused, present and appreciative.

Sharing my favorite book-to-film adaptation is both an extremely difficult prompt to consider, but also one of the easiest. As the cliche goes, “the book was so much better,” so it really took me a moment to think of what film I feel meets and/or exceeds my expectations, until I remembered one in particular: “Crazy Rich Asians.” The novel reads as an extremely relatable, yet wildly nuanced story about family dynamics, wealth and culture. The story managed to have these highly complex ideas whilst including such a powerful message about our society. When the film was released and became an unexpected international success, I was thrilled that my sophomore English classes couldn’t stop talking about it. When I offered for us to read the novel as a whole class, they were initially excited, thinking the story would mirror the glitz, glamor, romance and beauty as the film had them experience. Author Kevin Kwan has an extremely intricate way of telling stories: the students quickly realized how layered and challenging the novel truly is. As we explored the sophisticated concepts of classism, identity, family and cultural obligations/expectations the students realized the novel wasn’t just a strong piece for discussing literary analysis, but also for whole class discussions on privilege, traditions and the pressures of modern society. We would toggle between reading, discussions and viewing parts of the film to analyze. To this day, the wedding scene in the film is one of my all time favorite lessons to teach sophomore’s in English. In the film, the scene is breathtakingly beautiful, with the symbolism and images of the water rippling down the aisle, the colors of the flowers, and the soft glow of the flickering candlelight. As the outstanding music selection of Kina Grannis’ “Can’t Help Falling in Love” plays, each and every student paused and was absolutely mesmerized by the imagery in the film. I sincerely can’t think of another lesson more powerful to help students visualize the power of sensory details, and see how storytelling can properly translate onto the big screen. Something that surprised the students, and myself was the addition of the mahjong game into the story. The symbolism behind the game, which was not included in the novel itself, was an incredible addition to the film. The students discussed that Rachel, the protagonist, sacrificing her winning hand for her future mother-in-law reflected themes of self-worth, and respect. That one scene elevated the story in a way the students, and myself, didn’t expect. Usually, when films add things not in the original text it dilutes the power of the original story - not here. “Crazy Rich Asians” had a tumultuous casting experience: Holly wanted to whitewash the cast in order to “appeal to a larger audience.” Nevertheless, the story was filmed with an extraordinary, non-white cast. For my students—many of whom come from diverse, underrepresented backgrounds—seeing a major studio film embrace an all-Asian cast wasn’t just refreshing; it was affirming. It reinforced that their cultures, families, and experiences are worthy of being told on a global stage. It also sparked important conversations in my classroom about the impact of representation, and how the media we consume shapes our understanding of the world. This film took the nation, and world by storm. Not only was the novel incredible, but it translated into one of the most surprisingly successful film adaptations in history. It’s pretty difficult to have several sophomore classes agree on anything: the conversations, reading, and viewing of “Crazy Rich Asians” is something they will remember about their high school experience forever.

“Plan Your Work, Work Your Plan" is a phrase I’ve never heard before, but live and breathe. I've always had more tasks than hours in the day, which is why I rely on lists and routines. Writing tasks down allows me to focus fully on one thing at a time, reducing stress and keeping me present. Lists and routines keep me calm and grounded - they allow me to release the responsibility of remembering tasks, and instead to being present and focus on what needs my attention right then and there. I even put my clothes out each evening before bed, and put my car keys in the fridge, so that I remember the lunch that I prepared for myself (to save money). Routines have become such an important part of my life that it has tremendously helped my transition from the SF Bay Area to San Diego, in order for me to focus on the bigger picture on why I moved: flying. To earn my private pilot’s license I need to complete a following list of requirements, and to show proficiency. DONE - 40 total flight hours (minimum) DONE - 20 hours of flight training with an instructor: DONE - 3 hours cross-country training. DONE - 3 hours night flying: DONE - One night cross-country flight over 100 NM. DONE - 10 takeoffs and landings at a controlled airport, at night. DONE - 3 hours instrument training. DONE - 3 hours in preparation for the checkride (within 2 months before). DONE - 10 hours of solo flight time: WILL COMPLETE March 2nd, 2025 - One cross-country solo flight of at least 150 NM, with three landings at different airports. DONE - Three takeoffs and landings at a controlled airport. DONE - Pass the FAA Private Pilot Knowledge Test (written test). SCHEDULED March 26th, 2025 - Pass the FAA Checkride (an oral exam with the examiner, and practical flight test demonstrating maneuvers and procedures). The next step will be to earn my instrument and commercial ratings. I have the lists for what those requirements are, as well as a breakdown of how much each step costs, but unfortunately the word count will not permit me to share them. September 2024, I got my aviation start, and since then, my full-time high school teaching job, and my after school tutoring gig (to help support the flight goals) take up a lot of my day. I would like you to see how I am fitting this detailed checklist of activities into my daily routines, for the foreseeable future. Monday/Thursday 8:15AM-3:47PM - Teaching High School 3:50PM-7:05PM - Tutoring 08:00PM-10:00PM - Flight Training (ground school/book studying) Tuesday 8:15AM-3:47PM - Teaching High School 4:00PM-5:00PM - Groceries 5:00PM-7:00PM - Meal Prep/Laundry Wednesday 8:15AM-3:02PM - Teaching High School 3:50PM-8:20PM - Tutoring 9:00PM-11:00PM - Flight Training (in the plane, flying!) Friday 8:15AM-2:12PM - Teaching High School 3:00PM-6:00PM - Flight Training (alternating ground school and flying) 6:00PM-9:00PM - groceries and laundry Saturday 09:50AM-1:05PM - Tutoring The rest of the day is usually dedicated to hiking, seeing friends and/or running errands Sunday 10:50AM-2:05PM - Tutoring 3:00PM-7:00PM - Flight Training (in the plane, flying!) I’ve planned my work, and am absolutely working my plan. I love what I do, and have been sustaining this schedule for six months. I want to excel at this trade, and I’m really looking forward to pursuing the next two ratings after earning my private pilot’s license - I just need some help getting there.

Since I was very little, it was just my dad and me. He did an incredible job though: always finding fun, free activities for us to do, and raised me in a way that I didn’t quite realize how much we financially struggled until later in life. Because I have been accustomed to living on little to nothing and being grateful for just being here, when I was choosing a career I didn’t choose based on financial security and instead I chose what I really wanted to do: teach. For the last 15 years, I have dedicated my career to teaching, a profession I love so much that I worked two additional part-time jobs just to stay in it. I love helping students see their potential, but I’ve long come to realize that education doesn’t offer necessary resources to really tap into a students’ capabilities. I’m flummoxed as to how aviation isn’t taught alongside construction, auto, art, culinary, etc. Aviation became my passion later in life because growing up it wasn’t even on my radar. I didn’t grow up around pilots, or availability to planes, and there is no way we would have been able to afford it; nevertheless, I discovered that I could merge flying with my passion to teach. Because my dad was limited on what activities we could do, he inadvertently made me appreciate the world we live in by constantly taking walks with me, and backpacking. My friends know how much I love nature, and gifted me a scenic flight over the Grand Canyon. As we were flying through “The Ditch,” I had an epiphany—the pilot wasn’t just ensuring the safety of everyone on board, but also offering a perspective of the world that otherwise many wouldn’t have experienced by just taking walks or backpacking. Knowing that I could help introduce people to the wonders of the world inspired me to dive in head first. I don’t want to stop teaching though, and after some research I discovered I could be an instructor for AOPA’s You Can Fly program teaching aviation to high school students. I currently work at a school that has many students from various underrepresented backgrounds, and college isn’t necessarily something they are interested in: career and technical education (CTE) is more up their alley. Aviation should be represented. As a female pilot, I would be able to recruit students from all genders because students would see that this is a possible and viable path. Once qualified, and on my way to gathering advanced ratings, I will happily offer free groundwork to student pilots. Similar to supporting my teaching career, I’m constantly working to make sure that I can make this happen. I’m currently working as a full-time teacher, along with two part-time jobs to try and help finance my flight training. I’ve gotten help in my aviation aspirations, and I would never hesitate to give back. A pilot that sparked my aviation start passed away in a flight with his student on the East Coast several years ago. He was involved in an incredible program: Pilots n Paws. Rescuing animals and helping them get to their forever home is an experience I would never take for granted. I’ve worked all over California in various socio-economic settings, and have had the opportunity to help students in my classroom see their potential and guide their next steps. I’m no stranger to financial struggle, and I’m not getting into aviation for a paycheck. Now, as I enter the aviation field, I want to help ensure that financial status does not determine who gets to fly.

Financial roadblocks don’t prevent me from helping out. When living in the San Francisco Bay Area, I volunteered most Saturdays for five years, as a Docent for the Oakland Zoo (taking people on tours of the zoo/vet hospital, teaching guests about the animals, conservation efforts, etc). Additionally, I also took on the role of co-chairing the training committee for new Docents. During that time, I helped revamp the zoo’s semester-long training program for new Docents by creating the curriculum/lessons, assignments, and assessments. On top of that, I played another role behind the scenes: I became the editor of the Oakland Zoo Volunteer Newsletter. By donating my time and energy, whilst working my full-time teaching job and moonlighting at Trader Joe’s (it is very common for teachers in their first few years to have several jobs to help pay the bills), I needed to make every minute at the Oakland Zoo count. To help manage, guide and teach future volunteers, I needed to have a clear understanding of the zoo’s mission, and leadership. I had the amazing opportunity to collaborate closely with CEO Dr. Joel Parrott, and the CFO Nik Dehejia (who is now the CEO) in order to really understand the Oakland Zoo’s mission. I was able to work alongside an amazing team, including the CEO and CFO to ensure the new curriculum, and what was really important to the Oakland Zoo, for zoo guests to know was part of it. We wanted to run more inspiring, informative and engaging tours to the public, and that’s exactly what we accomplished. I was encouraged to tackle another leadership role at the Oakland Zoo: the editor for the Volunteer Newsletter. Each edition required careful planning, choosing article topics, authors, photographers, and choosing what messages we wanted to send to the 1,000+ volunteers each month. Not only was I getting to know the new trainees, but I was also working with the volunteer veterans, education staff and even the higher ups on a day-to-day basis, which made me feel like I could help maintain a sense of community and cohesion amongst the zoo volunteers in these monthly newsletters. The Oakland Zoo encourages people to help wherever they can, resulting in me going to Ecuador with the Wheelchair Foundation to help build and distribute wheelchairs to those who need them. As we pulled up, seeing the smiles and relief on people’s faces who have been confined to their homes, or unable to move independently was unimaginable. Many broke down crying when we presented them with their wheelchair. I had never experienced the heartache, and physical discomfort they were experiencing, but I was grateful to be part of the story that provided a small bit of relief. Several asked me why I would participate in the Wheelchair Foundation, when I had to pay for everything, and donate my time, as well. I couldn’t only muster, “if I were in that position, I would hope someone would do this for me.” I try to fully be present when helping because I feel the most valuable thing we can ever give someone is our time, since it is limited and how we choose to spend it is so important, so I struggled to find a photo. I couldn’t find any! I stumbled across exactly one, and it was taken as the “Letter from the Editor” photo about the volunteer dinner at the Oakland Zoo one year. "Non nobis solum nati sumus," means “Not for ourselves alone are we born" by philosopher Cicero—I’m driven to help others, and I will continue to do so.

Since kindergarten, I knew I wanted to be a teacher, but teach what? At the age of 21, I became a high school English teacher, not because it was my favorite subject, but because it was what was open at the time. I absolutely love teaching high school. Fifteen years later I realized I could teach something I truly love—aviation—now, I am doing everything in my power to pivot. Aviation became my passion later in life because I didn’t even know it was an option: I didn’t grow up around pilots, or availability to planes. When I discovered it, it took hold of me in a way I never expected. My friend booked us a scenic flight over the Grand Canyon, and that is when I realized flying isn’t just meant to be for transportation only. As we were flying through “The Ditch,” I had an epiphany—the pilot wasn’t just ensuring the safety of everyone on board, but also offering a perspective of the world that otherwise many wouldn’t have experienced. Flying isn’t just about getting from point A to point B, but it’s about sharing the world’s beauty whilst keeping them safe. Aviation is expensive, and I’m currently working one full-time, and two part-time jobs to try and help finance my training. Historically, when I’ve faced financial roadblocks when wanting to give back, it wouldn’t stop me, I would donate my time and skills instead. When living in the San Francisco Bay Area, I volunteered most Saturdays for five years, as a Docent for the Oakland Zoo (teaching guests about the animals, conservation efforts, etc). Additionally, I also took on the role of co-chairing the training committee for new Docents because teaching is truly part of who I am. Over the next few days, following the Grand Canyon flight, I realized that as much as I wanted to become a pilot and share the world with people, I wanted to do more with it—I didn’t want to leave teaching. "Non nobis solum nati sumus," means “Not for ourselves alone are we born" by philosopher Cicero—I’m driven to help others. I started looking into ways that my ratings could help others, and I discovered that I could merge flying with my passion for teaching as a CFI/CFII and even teach aviation in high schools. I also learned about becoming a volunteer with Pilots N Paws—I was hooked. Becoming an instructor for AOPA’s You Can Fly program, which introduces aviation to high school students, would be a natural extension of my passion for teaching. I want to be able to help introduce more people to this profession, especially younger people. I help students discover their passions and enter whatever field they are interested in by helping them apply, helping them craft their essays, and find scholarship opportunities. Nevertheless, career and technical education (CTE) is more up their alley, and aviation should absolutely be represented. As a female pilot, I would be able to recruit students from all genders because students would see that this is a possible and viable path. Once qualified, and on my way to gathering advanced ratings, I will happily offer free groundwork to student pilots. I’ve gotten help in my aviation aspirations, and I would never hesitate to give back. Outside of the classroom, I would be a committed CFI/CFII helping others tap into their potential. The Grand Canyon flight pushed me to explore possibilities I didn’t know existed, revealing opportunities and strengths I didn’t know about. I know I’m late to the game, but I’m here now: ready to teach, fly and help rescues.

Experiencing the world from as many perspectives as I can has been something I have never and will never take for granted: trekking through mountains across the world, diving beneath the ocean’s surface, or flying above various beautiful landscapes are adventures that I am lucky to have. I know these aren’t available to all. Seeing the world from the sky is something in particular I would like to help others experience. Teaching is not only my career, but helping students (of all ages) discover their potential, regardless of the subject, is what gets me out of bed in the morning. Aviation, and teaching (becoming a CFI/CFII) combine my passions. I’ve always been mesmerized by the beauty of the world, and my love for aviation became clear to me during a flight over the Grand Canyon. As I gazed out the window, I realized the pilot was not just flying a plane—he was creating an experience, offering passengers a view of the world they might never have seen otherwise, in a controlled and safe environment. I immediately wanted to be one of those pilots. Not only do I want to share the world with others, but I want to help make aviation accessible to all. One way I hope to create an impact is by becoming a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI/CFII). My background in academia has shown me the power of education, and I want to help guide aspiring pilots. The aviation industry needs more accessible pathways, and I want to help bridge that gap. Not everyone knows this is even a career option, and through teaching, I want to help instill confidence in new pilots, helping them develop not only technical skills but also the mindset needed to navigate various challenges in the sky. I am committed to using aviation to volunteer with organizations like Pilots N Paws: flying can serve a greater purpose beyond transportation. I want to use my skills to transport rescue animals to new homes where they have a chance at a better life. It’s a small but powerful way to use aviation for good, and it aligns with my belief that flying should not just be about personal achievement, but about making a difference, which is also why I want to teach aviation. My long-term vision includes introducing young students to aviation. High school aviation programs, like those developed by AOPA, are critical in sparking early interest in flight, and I want to be part of that effort. As someone who discovered aviation later in life, I recognize the importance of early exposure. Teaching high school students could open doors they never imagined possible, helping shape the next generation of pilots. Aviation is more than just a career path for me—it’s a way to connect, to educate, and to give back. By earning this scholarship, I will be able to continue my training knowing I am working toward something bigger than myself. I plan to create my impact—one flight at a time.

I first discovered Wicked not through the Broadway show, but through Gregory Maguire’s book. I was in seventh grade, stuck in bed with the flu, and finished it in one sitting. Even then, I was drawn to Elphaba—not because she was powerful, but because she refused to be what the world expected of her. While others saw a villain, she carved out her own path. That idea of defying expectations has always resonated with me. In many ways, I’ve felt the pull of that same narrative in my own life. Whether it’s the way I live without social media, the choices I make to experience life fully, or even my pursuit of aviation—people often question the path I take. “Why flying?” they ask. “Why not something safer? Something more traditional?” Like Elphaba in “Defying Gravity,” I refuse to stay grounded by expectations. Because I want to. Because the challenge excites me. Because every time I step into a cockpit, I feel like I am pushing beyond limits that others assume exist. I felt that most when I flew solo for the first time. The moment my instructor stepped out of the plane, I wasn’t nervous—if he believed I was ready, I knew I was. But as soon as I took off, I felt the difference. Without my instructor’s weight and with barely any fuel, the plane shot into the sky. It was an exhilarating sensation, but the real challenge came on approach. As I descended toward the runway, I encountered the Ramona Valley Lift—a sudden, unexpected updraft caused by the valley’s terrain and shifting air currents. Instead of smoothly descending, I found myself climbing again, just when I needed to be losing altitude. It wasn’t the kind of soaring I wanted. I had to adjust quickly, trust my training, and bring the plane down safely despite the unexpected lift. There’s something exhilarating about stepping into a cockpit, taking control, and lifting off the ground. It’s not just about flying—it’s about proving that I can. That I will. Elphaba sings, “Too late for second-guessing, too late to go back to sleep,” and I feel that in my bones. I’ve worked hard to get to this point, and I know my journey is just beginning. The world of Wicked tells us that some stories are already written—that certain people are destined to be heroes, while others are meant to be villains. Elphaba proves that narrative wrong. I want to do the same. I will earn my pilot’s license, continue to pursue my ratings, and use them to show others the beauty of flight—whether through scenic aerial tours or simply by proving that dreams are worth chasing. Wicked isn’t just a show to me; it’s a reminder that expectations don’t define me. I do. My story is still being written, and I plan to take it to places no one ever expected.

My friends are scattered around the nation, so we meet in various places where we can backpack - reconnecting with each other, and exploring new places together. This requires a lot of planning and flying. Although I have friends that have never felt at ease flying, I’ve always been extremely comfortable with it, and thoroughly enjoy using it as a mode of transportation. During one of the “Camp with Me Somewhere” trips, my friend had a connection to book us all a “Once in a Lifetime” tour at the Grand Canyon: a flight, raft tour and horse ride through the Canyon. As we boarded our flight to fly through the Canyon, not only did the views catch my eye, but in that moment I realized that the pilot upfront does this daily, and even several times a day. We took off - 10 passengers - each and every one of us was glued to the windows (regardless of flying comfort level). Everyone felt at ease, and simultaneously mystified. Seeing the Grand Canyon from a bird’s eye view showed a different side of the Canyon that I didn’t expect. Seeing the topography, terrain, plant life, and more I was overwhelmed with appreciation to try and take it all in and fully experience it. I knew that I could immerse myself into the experience because I trusted that the pilot’s had everything else covered. Not only are they keeping passengers safe up in the sky, but they are also exposing people to the beauty and wonders of the world that many may never have experienced without their skills. I had always thought about flying, but realizing that I could help others access natural beauty such as this, and seeing my friends who are fearful flyers smiling from ear to ear, cemented my commitment to this idea. These pilots have the opportunity to do all of this and more on a daily basis, and I wanted to be one of them. At that moment, I had the epiphany that I could combine my adventurous spirit, love for the outdoors, eagerness to ease anxious flyers, and to help unveil what the world has to offer outside of the screens, and the city life people may be accustomed to. Immediately, I started to brainstorm how I could incorporate this into my life. I have been a high school teacher since 2011, and I love to spend my time backpacking in the wilderness during my summer breaks. I enthusiastically realized I could work as a pilot for scenic and/or aerial tour aviation. I could introduce beautiful parts of the world to people: Grand Canyon, NV; Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska, Glacier National Park, Montana, and countless others while putting apprehensive passengers’ minds at ease that with me in the cockpit they can sit back and enjoy the scenery and not worry. Regardless of where I end up using my aviation skills, ensuring the safety of myself, passengers, and those around me is my number one most important consideration. Even before stepping into a plane, I thank my strong sense of attention to detail when conducting my preflight inspection, utilizing my checklists, and reviewing the Pilot Operating Handbook (POH). Inside of the plane, I prioritize safety by utilizing good aeronautical decision making (ADM), good crew resource management (CRM) and not falling victim to any of the five hazardous attitudes: resignation, anti-authority, invulnerability, impulsivity, and macho (RAIIM). In the event any of those, or an emergency do occur, I know what to do, and to remain calm. When starting out, my CFI persistently repeated, “The plane doesn’t have a brain - you do.” That mantra has stuck with me during various stages in my training, and has reminded me time and time again to stay calm and think. Unfortunately, my 15 year career as a high school teacher has had me witness lockdowns, and various violent situations. With each occurance I have seen students look to me for guidance, and once they see I am calm, cool and collected, springing into action - I see them relax slightly - they trust that I have things under control. I’ve learned that my calm demeanor is imperative for my brain to properly work out what needs to be done, and my ability to multitask helps me complete the tasks, and assist those around me. Even if those around me need to be soothed during dire situations, I remain in control of the situation and ensure that everyone’s needs are taken care of. My initial training is a solid foundation for my safety skill set; however, I pull from various ways I professionally develop myself for what to do in emergency situations - whether that is in the air or on the ground. Staying up to date is critical in all work environments, and this is even more crucial in aviation. I continuously study and keep myself current through continuing ground school, reviewing new laws, and reviewing the updates that my Sporty’s training modules sends me. Safety is key, but having a strong skill set is, as well. A significant challenge I faced in my aviation pursuit was landing (specifically when to flare). Due to my full-time job, as well as the 26 hours per week tutoring gig outside of my school workday (to help fund the aviation goals), scheduling the planes was problematic. I had to toggle between five different planes, and various times of day (day and night flying); there was little to no consistency and I was unable to figure out what the right feeling was to the actual landing of the plane. I had the knowledge - I had even passed my written exam already. My CFI and I agreed that maybe it would benefit me to research everything I can about landings. I continued to practice whenever I had the opportunity, and reached out to various pilots I knew in order to hear their takes on it. I spent countless hours scoping out YouTube videos (FlightInsight and others), reviewing Sporty’s materials, as well as BoldMethod.com. We also would video my landings, so I could get a better understanding of what to do in each plane, during the various times of day. I even went flying with two other CFI’s to get their take, at different airports. Luckily, it finally clicked! Without strong communication skills, and personal reflection, my smooth landings wouldn’t have been possible. Overcoming this challenge reminded me that commitment, and practice is pivotal to growth. I proudly soloed as my 30th hour in my log book, and according to my CFI my landings that day were some of the best he had seen from me. My attention to detail, being calm under pressure, and being extremely flexible are all imperative to my success in aviation. I can’t think of too many times in my life where Plan A was the one that worked out for me. I’ve come into the habit and mindset that I need to be able to pivot regardless of what happens, and I need to (sometimes) think quickly before I act. I truly understood this about myself when I was on the 212.2 mile John Muir Trail backpacking trip in California, when these qualities were really put to the test. I had my Plan A, B and even C. I knew the terrain would be challenging, and that I expected. What I didn’t realize was the flurry of series of unfortunate events that followed. Despite all of my plans, each and every day brought unexpected challenges: unforeseen illnesses, injuries, weather, and dangerous trails. Reflecting on that trip, I now have the confidence in my abilities to adapt in challenging conditions, which is a critical skill for a pilot who is responsible for the safety of themselves and others, as well as making sound decisions in ever-changing conditions. After completing the challenging trail, I sincerely believe in myself to navigate the complexities of aviation with resilience and determination throughout the various ways I will earn my ratings. In addition to working towards my Commercial License in order to become a pilot for scenic aerial tours, I would become a CFI. I love teaching and seeing student growth, and helping someone learn how to fly would be a rewarding way to give back to my aviation community. Moreover, I would like to continue to teach high school; however, pivot towards becoming an instructor for AOPA’s You Can Fly program which brings the aviation STEM program to high schools. I want to be able to help introduce more people to this profession, especially younger people. I currently work at a school that has many students from underrepresented backgrounds, and college isn’t necessarily something they are interested in. I help students discover their passions and enter whatever field they are interested in by helping them apply, helping them craft their essays, and looking for scholarship opportunities. Nevertheless, career and technical education (CTE) is more up their alley, and aviation should absolutely be represented. I am flummoxed as to how it’s not already in more high schools. As a female pilot, I would be able to recruit students from all genders because students would see that this is a possible and viable path. Once qualified, and on my way to gathering advanced ratings, I will happily offer free groundwork to student pilots. I’ve gotten help in my aviation aspirations, and I would never hesitate to give back. Aside from becoming a CFI, there is one other way I would like to use my skill set. A pilot that sparked my aviation start passed away in a flight with his student on the East Coast several years ago. He was involved in an incredible program: Pilots n Paws. Not only am I an animal lover, but I would without a doubt participate in this program in his honor. Rescuing animals and helping them get to their forever home is an experience I would never take for granted. My end goal isn’t just to fly. I want to increase this scholarship’s impact by introducing STEM into high schools, and showing students this is an incredible career opportunity. This scholarship is more than funding to me, it’s an investment in who I am as a person and my mission. It would be a partnership with the scholarship to advance aviation’s future. Working with high school students has been an incredible experience, but I see how limited their opportunities are within the classroom, and I want to help them. My dedication to education shows in every aspect of my life. Currently, in order to support this path, I am working a full time and simultaneously a part time job (tutoring students) that takes a lot of time away from my focus on my flying studies. I am doing everything I can to earn the necessary qualifications and experiences to lead confidently in the cockpit, and in the classroom. The Grand Canyon flight pushed me to explore possibilities I didn’t know existed, revealing opportunities and strengths I had yet to discover. Aviation continues to challenge and inspire me, pushing me to grow both personally and professionally. I am committed to becoming not just a skilled pilot but also an advocate for the field—a steward of safety, innovation, and mentorship within the aviation community. Helping animals get to where they need to go would fulfill me in ways I didn’t realize I wanted to be fulfilled. This scholarship would play a pivotal role in turning these aspirations into reality.

The perfect ending for The Bear would be a conclusion that balances both closure and the recognition of how much growth has occurred over the series. It’s important for the characters to find resolution, but also for the raw, real journey of the show to feel authentic and true to their individual struggles. For Carmy, the series should end with him finding a balance between his high-strung ambition and the life he is beginning to build with the restaurant and his team. I see him truly breaking free from the heavy expectations he’s always carried—whether those were from his family or his own internal struggles. We could see him stepping into the role of a confident leader without the suffocating weight of perfectionism. I’d love to see him taking ownership of the restaurant as a space that’s no longer just about cooking perfectly, but about finding joy in the act of cooking for others, and maybe—just maybe—being at peace with his past. A scene of Carmy finally feeling like he belongs and finding his place in the world, outside of the turmoil, would be a fitting, heartwarming conclusion. Sydney’s arc has always been one of resilience and ambition. It would be fulfilling to see her grow into her potential as a chef and a person. The perfect ending for Sydney would involve her fully embracing her creative vision while building her own space within the culinary world. I'd love to see her open her own restaurant or culinary venture, perhaps even a more elevated version of the original Bear, but with her stamp on it. I’d want Sydney to find the confidence to strike a balance between her dreams and the reality of the kitchen, and maybe even share that dream with others—like Carmy—who would support her vision. Marcus, the sweet pastry chef, could have a significant moment where his craft and creativity are truly recognized. His development throughout the series has shown his potential, and an ending where he receives an opportunity—perhaps a culinary scholarship, or a role in a more high-end, recognized restaurant—would be a beautiful moment of growth for him. While he’s shown immense potential, the ending would need to be an acknowledgment of how far he’s come, despite his initial low-key, almost naive nature. Tina and Richie should also see resolutions that reflect their development. For Tina, I’d love to see her step into a more authoritative role in the kitchen, where she can teach the newer staff, possibly even becoming a sous-chef or chef herself. Richie’s evolution is crucial, too—his final moments should demonstrate how far he’s come from his volatile, often frustrating character at the start. An ending for Richie where he accepts who he is and finds peace, whether with his family, a romantic partner, or with the restaurant, would be a meaningful conclusion to his complex arc. The perfect ending would acknowledge that these characters have come together as a true team. The final scene could show a successful service, where everyone is in sync, working together harmoniously. The Bear could be more than just a place of chaos—it could be a place of healing and a new chapter, one that celebrates their successes, even in the face of challenges. In the end, The Bear would have everyone finding a form of success that’s unique to their journey—a perfect blend of career, personal growth, and family. The series should end not with finality, but with hope. The characters may not have it all figured out, but they’ve learned to embrace the messy, beautiful process of trying, failing, and growing.

Charli XCX’s brat album is a wild ride of self-expression, vulnerability, and living life on your own terms. Among all the tracks, “Speed Drive” stands out to me as the ultimate anthem for embracing life with passion, joy, and fearlessness. The high-energy vibe of the song mirrors how I approach life—full throttle, no hesitation, and with an eagerness to experience everything the world has to offer. It took me a long time to get there, but I’m here now and not turning back. "Oh, got the top down, tires on fire (on fire)" captures the exhilarating feeling of living boldly and making the most of every moment. Just like in the song, I don’t want to let anything hold me back. I’ve lost friends in tragedies, and have learned that we only have one shot at life - I’m going to take that shot. This mindset aligns with how I approach my goals, especially my journey into aviation. Whether I’m flying or exploring new cities like, I make sure to live in the moment. For years, I’ve struggled with what others think of me—especially when I was younger and faced bullying: "What you think about me, I don’t care (I don’t care)." Now, I’ve learned that it’s all about my own perspective. I have no social media, and no need for external validation. I focus on my life, my goals, and what truly matters to me. People are often shocked when they see me living a full, vibrant life without the pressure of social media, and I love that. It’s liberating to know that my worth isn’t defined by likes, follows, or opinions. “Kawaii like we’re in Tokyo” feels like it was made for me. I love Japan, and visiting Tokyo was quite the experience. The city's vibrant culture, its blend of tradition and modernity—it felt like a different world, one where I could be my true self. Some people say that you could be classified as a Tokyo person, or an Osaka person. I’m Osaka all the way apparently - I’m always looking for ways to push boundaries and live fully. “Van Gogh” is another reference that resonates deeply with me. I’ve always admired Vincent van Gogh for his creativity, his boldness, and his passion—even when the world didn’t understand him. He gave his ear to the woman he loved, an act of vulnerability and dedication that is something that although I will never understand, I can see that he put everything he had into his passions. Just like van Gogh, I’m willing to put myself out there fully and unapologetically, knowing that it’s part of the journey toward something bigger. Then, there's “Barbie, you’re so fine, you’re so fine you blow my mind.” This lyric takes me back to my childhood. It reminds me of the first CD I ever bought—the Aqua album. It’s a fun, nostalgic throwback to simpler times, and it’s a reminder to never take life too seriously. I’ve always loved finding joy in the little things, and Charli’s music does a great job of balancing fun with depth. Charli XCX’s brat is a celebration of boldness, self-expression, and embracing ourselves. The album’s energy speaks to my own drive to live without regrets, embrace new experiences, and share those moments with others. It’s about living life with the top down, chasing dreams, and never worrying about what anyone else thinks. As I continue to pursue my passion for aviation and share the beauty of nature with others through scenic aerial tours, I know that brat will be on the soundtrack of my adventurous life.

I am a proud Warriors fan, and Klay Thompson is undoubtedly my favorite player, but that doesn’t mean I don’t have a deep respect for LeBron James. In fact, I admire him greatly—not only for his unmatched skills on the court but also for his impact off the court. While I wouldn’t go so far as to say he’s the greatest basketball player of all time (Klay Thompson's shooting ability definitely holds a special place in my heart), there’s no denying that LeBron’s career has been nothing short of legendary. LeBron’s journey is a testament to his resilience, drive, and leadership. He has taken his teams to the highest level year after year, consistently competing for championships. His versatility on the court—being able to play multiple positions at an elite level—sets him apart. I also admire how he adapted his career, making bold decisions like leaving the Cleveland Cavaliers to join the Miami Heat in search of a championship. It takes courage to make such a move, especially when you’re a hometown hero. In many ways, it reminds me of Klay Thompson’s loyalty to the Warriors while knowing what’s best for his personal growth as a player. Both of them have made difficult decisions for their future success, and I respect that. Beyond basketball, LeBron’s philanthropy is also something I admire. His commitment to using his platform to uplift others—whether it's through his "I PROMISE" school for at-risk children or his advocacy for social justice—demonstrates a level of compassion and responsibility that transcends sports. I’m always drawn to athletes who use their influence to create positive change in the world, and LeBron does this better than most. As a true basketball fan, I’ve always had a love for the game, even when the Warriors weren’t at the top of their game 15 years ago. My best friend and I would go to games simply to enjoy the experience, and it became a tradition to catch a game on Valentine’s Day each year. There’s something special about the atmosphere in the arena, the energy of the crowd, and the passion that players like LeBron bring to the court. While I may not consider LeBron James the greatest of all time, I certainly recognize his greatness and his contributions to the game. I respect his journey, his influence, and the way he continues to redefine what it means to be a modern athlete.

If I could choose my favorite athlete to cheer for on Team USA, it would have to be Simone Biles. Her combination of incredible skill, resilience, and mental fortitude embodies everything I admire in athletes, and honestly, in people. I’ve always been drawn to those who push through challenges, whether physical, emotional, or mental, and Simone’s journey as a gymnast is one of the most inspiring examples of that. Simone is not only a master of her sport, but she also faces intense pressure to perform at the highest level every time she steps onto the mat. What I find especially powerful is how she uses her platform to be open about her struggles, including mental health, which resonates deeply with me. As someone who teaches, coaches, and deals with my own personal obstacles, I understand that strength isn’t just about powering through physical challenges. It’s also about being open, vulnerable, and asking for help when needed. Simone’s willingness to step back from competition for her mental health is a level of self-awareness that I admire, and it has helped open up a larger conversation about mental health in sports. Her resilience reminds me of a moment I had last year while training for my pilot's license. I had just completed a solo flight, which was one of the most exhilarating yet nerve-wracking experiences of my life. But soon after, I faced an unexpected health setback that left me feeling unsure about my ability to continue pursuing aviation. There were moments when I thought about quitting or delaying my goal. But then I reminded myself that setbacks don’t define my journey; they’re just part of it. Like Simone, I knew I had to push through the fear and uncertainty, trusting that I could come back stronger. That perseverance helped me regain my confidence and continue to chase my aviation dreams. Simone has also proven that you can achieve greatness while staying grounded. Despite her record-breaking performances, including multiple Olympic gold medals, she consistently remains humble and focuses on the growth of others. She’s not only an advocate for excellence in gymnastics but also for the importance of encouraging others to reach their potential, no matter what their starting point is. That’s something I carry with me as a teacher and a mentor—creating an environment where others feel inspired to dream big and pursue their passions. So, if I were to cheer for any Team USA athlete, it would be Simone Biles without a doubt. Her drive, her openness, and her belief in herself and others is something I aspire to emulate in my own life and career.

I have a drive, despite countless obstacles throughout my teaching career, health, and my pursuit of my pilot’s license. Billie Eilish has countless songs that resonate with me, but the ones that showcase navigating complexity, and finding strength in vulnerability are ideas that parallel my journey. As I work toward my aviation dreams, I see parallels between her lyrics and my own ambitions: confronting and overcoming personal challenges, striving for progress, and holding fast to my goals even when I feel like I’m flying blind. Her song "bury a friend" explores the struggles of navigating the internal conflicts within someone. Aviation is my dream, and I'm working towards it despite all of the challenges in my personal and professional life. This song symbolizes my internal fight against my doubts and fears, and how I’ll push through them. It’s a pretty dark tone, which resonates with me as someone who is persevering despite dealing with health issues and navigating relationships. "everything i wanted," is an extraordinary track that talks about feeling isolated despite success. The lyrics, “I had a dream, I got everything I wanted,” mirror how I work so hard to chase my goals but also recognize that dreams don’t always come without their sacrifices. The song reminds me that setting high standards for myself is what will help me grow each and every day. Every day I wake up and think how to get one step closer to my commitments and aspirations. Focusing on my goals, as well as dealing with the emotionally intense time in my life from trying to gracefully handle emotions, relationships and personal strength shows up in the song “no time to die.” The song focuses on not giving up, and I don’t. Despite everything life throws my way, I won’t give up. I’m finding various avenues to get to where I want to go and to be at peace with myself and my decisions. The song slowly builds up to a cinematic buildup, which is similar to how I approach my ambitions with both caution and hope. Billie Eilish’s songs remind me that I’m not alone in feeling the way that I do, and that I have the potential to get to where I want to be by believing in myself, and my goals.