Why I want to be a pilot

Essay by Brandi Powell

My Father is an ultra-light pilot, and I aspire to be a commercial pilot. My Father is always encouraging me; however, he also warns me of the many challenges I will face along the way. Needless to say, I am filled with a burning desire to reach my goal, and to fulfill my dream of being a commercial pilot.

My dream began the day I took my first plane ride in a Cessna- I was eight years old. Every aspect of the experience was awe-inspiring, from lift-off, to flight and to landing. I was impressed by the aerial view of what we had left behind. The best part was taking control of the "stick" and not having to worry about how fast I was going, or having to stop for traffic lights. I was also quite excited to tell my friends what the houses, power lines, smokestacks, and rivers look like from above. It was that moment that I was sold on finding "my road" in the sky.

Little did I know of the challenge and the obstacles that go into the training of a pilot. During flights with many people, visiting with many pilots, and attending several seminars, I have learned that ground school, solo fight and check ride are only the beginning stages of instruction. To learn all of these things requires time, education and dedication (which is really that "deep-down desire"). And, did I mention money? I know I have the "desire", but I also realize that I will need a basic college education, many hours of instruction, and numerous hours of on-the-job training.

My involvement in aviation includes memberships in EAA Chapter 172, Young Eagles and Boshears Fly-In. I have attended many local and out of  state fly-ins/air shows, including Sun-N-Fun in Lakeland, Florida. I have flown in a J3 Cub, Cessna 172, Piper Tri-pacer, Piper Colt, Quick Silver Ultra light, Citabria, Piper Cherokee, O-2, Beach-18, PBY, Pitts S-2B, Gyrocopter, Cherokee Six an a 1929 Travel Air S-6000B (Delta's first passenger airplane). As you can see, I go flying every chance I get when there is an empty seat in someone's plane.

I have been influenced by many people. To name a few: Sherman Noe (he introduced my father to flying), Bob Rhodes, Greg Connell, Mike Herlihi,  Mark and Steve Thompson, Keith Brock, Phil Coleman, Mary Joe Davis, Dennis Allen, Tom Collins and Jay Shealy. Of course, first and foremost: My Father, Randy Powell.

I can remember back when I was nine years old and Mark Thompson asked if I wanted to go flying. I said of course I do. As we were flying around, Mark let me take the controls. It was like a dream come true. I felt like a million dollars and I knew then that becoming a pilot was what I wanted to be when I grew up.

I am on the A-B Honor Roll, and will graduate in June. I plan to attend Georgia Middle College formerly Georgia Aeronautical College in Eastman, Georgia. In addition to qualifying for the Hope Scholarship, this scholarship will help with the financial aspects of my aeronautical education. This scholarship would help me to pursue my dream, my goal and my challenge to become a commercial pilot. I appreciate any encouragement,  suggestions and especially your consideration for this scholarship.