From the first time I saw Wicked, I felt an indescribable connection to its story and characters. As a 17-year-old girl with red hair and a passion for flying planes, I’ve always felt a little different. Elphaba’s journey, the way she embraced her uniqueness in a world that judged her for it resonated with me on a deeply personal level. Like Elphaba, I’ve faced moments where I felt like I didn’t quite fit in. Growing up with a love for aviation, a field dominated by men, I’ve often had to fight to prove that I belong. Wicked reminded me that being different isn’t a weakness; it’s a strength. Elphaba’s determination to follow her dreams, even when the odds were stacked against her, mirrors my own path in aviation. When I stepped into a cockpit for the first time, I felt the same exhilaration that Elphaba must have felt when she defied gravity. The freedom, the sense of power, and the realization that I was capable of soaring beyond the limitations others tried to place on me were life-changing. Like Elphaba, I’ve had to work harder to prove myself in a space where I’m not the typical face people expect to see. But instead of letting that discourage me, it has fueled my determination. Glinda’s story also speaks to me in a profound way. Her transformation from someone who seeks acceptance and approval to someone who stands up for what’s right is a journey I strive to emulate. As a female pilot, I’ve learned the importance of standing up not just for myself, but for the women who will come after me. Every time I step into an airplane, I’m not just flying; I’m breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and showing young girls that they can do anything they set their minds to. What makes Wicked so powerful is its message of resilience and empowerment. Elphaba and Glinda taught me that we don’t have to follow the paths others lay out for us; we can chart our own course, even if it’s unconventional or misunderstood. That’s exactly what I’m doing in aviation. It hasn’t always been easy. There have been times when I’ve felt out of place or doubted whether I was strong enough to succeed in such a male-dominated industry. But every time I hear Elphaba sing, “I’m through accepting limits, ‘cause someone says they’re so,” I am reminded that my passion for flying is worth every challenge I face. Wicked has been more than a musical to me, it’s a source of inspiration and a reminder that being different is something to celebrate. Like Elphaba, I want to defy expectations and soar to new heights. I want to show the world that a red-haired girl who has always felt different can not only succeed but thrive in aviation. This scholarship would be another step toward making that dream a reality, and every step I take is a tribute to the courage and strength I’ve learned from Wicked.

I am a 17-year-old female student pilot with 70 logged flight hours, actively working toward obtaining my Private Pilot License. I have passed my written knowledge test, and I am preparing to schedule my checkride in March. I successfully completed my first solo flight shortly after my 16th birthday, an accomplishment that earned recognition and a feature in my local city newspaper for its significance in my aviation journey. From the moment I stepped onto an airplane as a little girl, I was captivated by the magic of flight. The roar of the engines, the way the plane defied gravity, and the endless sky outside the window ignited a dream within me. However, what truly solidified my desire to pursue a career in aviation was the moment I saw a female pilot confidently walking through the terminal in her uniform. That image stayed with me—she wasn’t just flying an airplane; she was breaking barriers. She showed me that women belong in aviation, even in an industry that has historically been male-dominated. That single moment planted a seed of determination in my heart, and I knew I wanted to follow in her footsteps. As a young female pilot, I’ve faced my fair share of challenges. There are moments when I’ve felt like I needed to work twice as hard to prove my worth in this field. But instead of being discouraged, these challenges have fueled my determination to succeed. I chose aviation because it combines my passion for learning, my love for adventure, and my desire to inspire others. Every time I take to the skies, I am reminded of the beauty and responsibility of this career—connecting people, transporting dreams, and overcoming the impossible. My ultimate goal is to become an airline captain. I want to sit in the left seat, not just for the personal achievement but to pave the way for others like me. I want young girls to look at me the way I once looked at that female pilot in the terminal and think, “If she can do it, so can I.” Representation matters, and I want to be a living example that there are no limits to what women can achieve. Breaking barriers in aviation isn’t just about flying planes; it’s about empowering a generation to dream bigger and push further. Aviation is important to me because it’s not just a career—it’s a platform for change. It’s an industry where progress is tangible, where innovation and determination converge. For me, aviation symbolizes freedom, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence. It’s a place where I can challenge myself every day, learn continuously, and leave a lasting legacy by mentoring and uplifting others. By achieving my dream of becoming an airline captain, I hope to inspire the next generation of female aviators. I want to show them that no dream is too ambitious and no sky is out of reach. Aviation is my passion, my purpose, and my way of breaking barriers for women everywhere. With every flight I take, I carry not only my dreams but the hopes of all the young girls who dare to believe they can soar. This scholarship would be instrumental in helping me pursue my dreams at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida, where I plan to begin my studies in the fall of 2025. Attending Embry-Riddle has been a lifelong aspiration, as it represents the pinnacle of aviation education and training. This opportunity would not only support my academic and professional growth but also enable me to break barriers in an industry where women are still underrepresented.

My name is Brooklyn Kennedy, and I am a 17-year-old female pilot with 70 hours of flight experience, including 15 solo hours. My passion for aviation began at 14 during my first discovery flight, and I have been captivated by the field ever since. Shortly after my 16th birthday, I completed my first solo flight, an achievement that earned me recognition on the front page of my local newspaper. This fall, I will be attending Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida—a lifelong dream come true. Being accepted into one of the top flight schools in the country is an incredible honor and a significant step toward achieving my ultimate goal of becoming an airline pilot. I am deeply inspired by trailblazing women like Hannah, who have paved the way for future generations of women in aviation. Their achievements give me the confidence to pursue my dreams without hesitation, regardless of gender or race. However, as a woman in a male-dominated industry, I have often felt the need to work ten times harder to prove my worth. This scholarship resonates deeply with me, as it represents the resilience and determination required to excel in aviation. With the high cost of attending Embry-Riddle, this scholarship would significantly ease the financial burden and enable me to focus entirely on my education and flight training. It would support my mission to become a leader in aviation and inspire other women to break barriers in this field. I am committed to working tirelessly to achieve my dream of becoming an airline pilot, and I will not stop until that dream becomes a reality. 1.The moment that solidified my desire to become a pilot was the first time I saw a female captain step out of the cockpit. I was 13 years old, waiting at the gate for my flight, when she walked out in her crisp uniform, radiating confidence and authority. It was the first time I had ever seen a woman in that role, and it completely shifted my perspective. Until that moment, I had unconsciously believed that aviation was a space reserved for men. I remember staring at her, wide-eyed, thinking, "If she can do it, maybe I can too." When she smiled at me as she walked by, it was as if she was passing on a spark of inspiration. That spark grew every time I read stories of women breaking barriers in aviation or saw pictures of Amelia Earhart and Bessie Coleman. They became my heroes—not just for their accomplishments, but for daring to take up space in an industry that wasn’t built with them in mind. That experience ignited a fire in me to follow in their footsteps and be the kind of role model for young girls that she was for me. I want to show others, just as she showed me, that no dream is too big and no industry too out of reach. Every time I step into the cockpit, I carry the inspiration of those women with me, and it strengthens my resolve to pave the way for future generations of female aviators. 2.Safety isn’t just a priority in aviation—it’s the foundation upon which every flight is built. For me, it’s deeply personal. Every time I step into the cockpit, I’m not just responsible for myself but for the lives of my passengers, the trust of those who’ve trained me, and the reputation of every pilot who strives to make aviation safer. This responsibility is something I carry with the utmost respect and seriousness. I plan to uphold the highest safety standards by committing to a meticulous approach in every aspect of flying. Before I even start the engine, I conduct a thorough pre-flight inspection, paying attention to every detail no matter how small, because I know that even the tiniest oversight can have significant consequences. I follow my checklists with precision and discipline, not as a routine task, but as a vital step that ensures the aircraft is ready and I am mentally prepared for the flight ahead. Continuous learning is another cornerstone of my safety philosophy. I attend safety seminars, review accident case studies, and practice emergency procedures regularly because I believe there is always room for improvement. These practices not only sharpen my skills but also keep me humble, reminding me that aviation is a field where complacency has no place. I also stay attuned to situational awareness, constantly scanning my surroundings, weather conditions, and aircraft performance. It’s about being proactive rather than reactive, anticipating challenges before they arise and having the presence of mind to adapt swiftly when the unexpected happens. 3.One of the most significant challenges I’ve faced in my pursuit of aviation has been navigating the doubts and biases that come with being a young female in a male-dominated industry. Early in my flight training, I remember walking into a classroom filled with men and feeling like I didn’t belong. Comments like, "Are you sure you can handle this?" or subtle looks of skepticism made me question whether I was truly capable or just chasing an impossible dream. At first, I tried to ignore it, but the weight of constantly feeling like I had to prove myself became overwhelming. There were moments I wanted to walk away—not because I didn’t love flying, but because I was tired of the doubt, both from others and creeping into my own mind. What kept me going was my deep passion for aviation and the support of a few key people who believed in me—my instructor, my family, and the women in aviation I looked up to. I leaned into that support and made the decision to let the criticism fuel my determination instead of weaken it. I worked harder than ever, spending extra hours studying and refining my skills until I felt completely confident in my abilities. The day I completed my first solo flight was the turning point. As I landed the plane and stepped out onto the tarmac, I wasn’t just proving myself to others—I was proving to myself that I belonged. Since then, I’ve learned to carry the weight of being a trailblazer with pride. It’s not always easy, but every challenge reminds me of why I’m here: to show the world that women belong in aviation, and to inspire the next generation of female pilots to follow their dreams 4.As a female pilot in an industry that has long been dominated by men, I believe that my resilience, adaptability, and determination are the qualities that will truly set me apart. Aviation, by its very nature, is unpredictable—weather conditions can change in an instant, mechanical issues can arise without warning, and sometimes, I have to make quick, high-stakes decisions in a moment of pressure. I’ve learned that being able to stay calm, focused, and clear-headed in those moments is not just essential for my own safety but for the safety of everyone involved. I take immense pride in my ability to remain composed under pressure, making thoughtful, informed decisions even when things seem uncertain. But resilience goes beyond just keeping my cool in tough situations. As a woman pursuing a career in aviation, I’ve often felt the weight of proving myself in a male-dominated space. There have been times when I’ve been underestimated or doubted, simply because I am a female pilot. But rather than letting this discourage me, it has only fueled my determination to push forward. Every challenge I face, whether it’s in the cockpit or within the industry itself, only strengthens my resolve to show that women belong here just as much as anyone else. In those moments, I remind myself that the journey I’m on is bigger than just me—it’s about paving the way for future women in aviation who will follow after me. In addition to my resilience, my natural curiosity and love for learning are key factors in my pursuit of excellence. I am constantly seeking new knowledge and skills to refine my craft. Whether it’s through flight training, reading aviation books, attending seminars, or learning from the experiences of fellow pilots, I’m driven by an insatiable desire to be better every single day. This passion for learning helps me stay prepared for any situation and enables me to adapt quickly to the ever-changing nature of aviation. 5.As a female pilot, I feel a deep and personal responsibility to inspire and uplift other women who may not yet see themselves represented in aviation. I know firsthand how difficult it can be to imagine a future in a field where you don’t always see people like yourself, and I want to change that. I want to show young girls and aspiring female pilots that aviation is not just a possibility—it’s a space where they can thrive, lead, and change the world. One of the ways I plan to give back is by actively engaging with organizations like Women in Aviation International. Through volunteering, I want to provide a supportive environment where young girls and women can explore the world of aviation without fear of judgment or exclusion. I believe that when we see others who share our struggles and dreams, we feel empowered to follow our own paths. By offering mentorship, I hope to not only provide guidance but also give young women the confidence to pursue their aviation dreams without hesitation. I want them to know that their voices matter, their dreams are valid, and there is a place for them in aviation, no matter the obstacles. In my mentorship, I plan to be completely transparent about my journey—the highs, the challenges, and the moments of doubt. I know that when we share our stories, we empower others to keep going, even when the road ahead seems impossible. I want them to know that they are not alone in facing the barriers that come with being a woman in a male-dominated field. I hope that by sharing my own experiences, they’ll understand that the struggles are not signs of weakness, but evidence of resilience, growth, and strength. 6.I am deeply passionate about aviation, and my journey as a female pilot has been a testament to my unwavering commitment and determination. Every hour I’ve spent in the air, every lesson I’ve absorbed, and every challenge I’ve faced has been a step toward realizing my dream of becoming an airline captain. But this dream goes beyond just personal achievement. It’s about representing the countless women who have been told they don’t belong in this field and showing them that the sky is not the limit—it’s only the beginning. This scholarship would mean more to me than just financial assistance—it would be a lifeline that would help me continue pushing forward in a field that has not always been welcoming to women. The financial burden of flight training has been one of the biggest obstacles I’ve faced, and the cost of continuing my education at a top-tier school like Embry-Riddle is overwhelming. This scholarship would lift that weight off my shoulders and allow me to dedicate my time and energy to becoming the best pilot I can be. It would give me the freedom to focus on honing my skills, gaining advanced certifications, and expanding my knowledge without the constant worry of how I will afford the next step in my training. For me, this scholarship is not just about easing my path to becoming a pilot—it’s about the greater impact I hope to have in aviation. As a woman in this industry, I know firsthand how isolating it can feel to be one of the few women in the cockpit. But I also know the power of representation. If I can make it, I know other women can too. With the support from this scholarship, I will be in a stronger position to reach my goal of becoming an airline captain—where I can not only fly but mentor, guide, and inspire other women and underrepresented individuals to follow their dreams in aviation.

When I think about the person who has had the most profound impact on my life, my high school volleyball coach immediately comes to mind. Coach didn’t just teach me how to play volleyball; she taught me how to find strength within myself, how to believe in who I am, and how to rise above the challenges that come with being a female in athletics. I’ll never forget my junior year, when I faced one of the toughest periods of my life. I was doubting myself on the court and off. I struggled to perform during games, my confidence shaken by harsh criticism from others who said volleyball wasn’t for “girls like me.” As a young woman in sports, I’ve always been aware of the subtle but pervasive doubt cast upon female athletes. It felt like we had to work twice as hard to prove we belonged, and it was exhausting. At one point, I began questioning if I even belonged on the team. Coach noticed. She saw my hesitancy during practice, and the way I shrank into the background. Instead of letting me fade, she pulled me aside one day after practice. In her calm but firm voice, she said something that will stay with me forever: “You are stronger than you think, and your worth isn’t tied to one game, one mistake, or anyone else’s opinion. You belong here, and you have a fire inside you that no one can extinguish unless you let them.” That conversation changed everything for me. Coach didn’t just see me as an athlete; she saw me as a person. She reminded me of the strength I had forgotten I possessed. I stopped playing small. I worked harder, pushed myself further, and reclaimed the joy I felt when I first fell in love with volleyball. Coach also taught me the importance of resilience, one of the values David exemplified. She pushed us not to fear failure but to embrace it as an opportunity to grow. I remember one game in particular when I made a costly mistake that nearly lost us the match. I was devastated, but instead of letting me dwell on it, Coach encouraged me to analyze what went wrong, learn from it, and step back onto the court with confidence. That moment taught me not only how to handle setbacks in sports but also how to face challenges in life with determination and grit. Another trait Coach instilled in us was teamwork and compassion. She reminded us that we were only as strong as the bond we shared as a team. It wasn’t about being the best individual player; it was about lifting each other up. As a female athlete, I’ve come to deeply value the sense of community and empowerment that comes from supporting other women in their journeys. Today, I strive to live by the traits Coach and David valued: resilience, compassion, hard work, and the ability to lift others up. Whether it’s mentoring younger players, showing kindness to a teammate who is struggling, or persevering through challenges in my own life, I carry those lessons with me. Coach didn’t just help me become a better athlete; she helped me become a stronger, more confident version of myself. Her belief in me during one of my darkest moments gave me the courage to embrace who I am and to push forward, not just in volleyball, but in everything I pursue. I hope to honor her lessons and values in all that I do—and maybe, one day, inspire others the way she inspired me.

From a young age, I’ve been drawn to the skies, captivated by the beauty of flight and the complexity of the aviation world. The aviation field appeals to me because it combines my passion for exploration with a commitment to precision and excellence. Flying represents freedom, responsibility, and the opportunity to inspire others—especially as a woman breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated field. I believe several key skills position me to excel as a pilot. First and foremost, I possess strong problem-solving and critical thinking abilities. In challenging situations, I remain calm under pressure, analyzing options and making informed decisions quickly. This skill is essential in aviation, where safety depends on clear, logical thinking. Second, I am highly detail-oriented. Whether it's studying for exams or managing projects, I pay close attention to accuracy and compliance. This meticulousness will be invaluable when learning flight systems, following procedures, and ensuring every step of a flight is executed flawlessly. Additionally, I excel in communication and teamwork. Pilots must collaborate with co-pilots, air traffic controllers, and ground crews to ensure smooth operations. My ability to work well with others and convey information clearly will help me foster effective teamwork in the cockpit and beyond. Furthermore, I possess a natural curiosity and willingness to learn. The aviation field is one of continuous evolution, requiring pilots to stay current with new technologies, regulations, and safety procedures. I thrive in environments where lifelong learning is encouraged and have always sought opportunities to expand my knowledge, whether it’s mastering new skills or delving into challenging topics. My passion for aviation is fueled by this love of learning, as it promises an ever-evolving career filled with opportunities to grow. Finally, I have a deep sense of resilience and perseverance. I understand that becoming a pilot requires dedication, hard work, and continuous learning. I am committed to overcoming challenges and staying focused on my goals, knowing the rewards of pursuing this dream far outweigh the obstacles. The aviation field also excites me because it offers opportunities to challenge myself intellectually and physically while contributing to a dynamic and rapidly evolving industry. Moreover, I am inspired by the prospect of becoming a role model for other young women who dream of soaring in a career traditionally dominated by men. Representation matters, and I aspire to show others that they, too, can break boundaries and achieve greatness in any field they choose. This combination of skills and passion drives my desire to become a pilot. With the right training and support, I am confident I can make a meaningful contribution to aviation while inspiring others to take flight—both literally and figuratively.

Becoming a female pilot is a dream born from equal parts passion and determination. From the first time I watched a plane soar across the sky, I felt an indescribable pull toward aviation. It wasn’t just the thrill of flying that drew me in but the sense of freedom and strength that came with it. As a woman, stepping into this traditionally male-dominated field feels like more than a career choice, it’s a statement of resilience and possibility. One of my biggest motivations is representation. Growing up, I rarely saw female pilots, and that absence made me question whether I belonged in the cockpit. I want to change that for the next generation. I want young girls to look up at the sky and believe they can do anything. By breaking barriers and building visibility, I hope to inspire others to pursue their dreams without limitations or fear of being “different.” It’s about showing that gender doesn’t define competence or passion. This path is also deeply personal for me. I’ve faced challenges that tested my confidence and resolve, but they’ve only strengthened my determination to succeed. Aviation offers the opportunity to combine my love for problem-solving, technology, and adventure, while also teaching me patience and discipline. Each takeoff and landing symbolizes control over my journey, and every flight is a reminder of how far I’ve come, and how far I can still go. Professionally, my goal is to not just excel as a pilot but to advocate for diversity in the aviation industry. I want to mentor aspiring pilots, particularly women and underrepresented groups, by sharing my experiences and helping them navigate this demanding yet rewarding field. Eventually, I’d like to work with organizations focused on creating accessible training opportunities for those who lack resources but have the ambition to succeed. To achieve these goals, I’ve dedicated myself to both personal and professional growth. I’ve immersed myself in learning everything I can about aviation, from the mechanics of flight to the principles of leadership. I’ve taken every opportunity to network with industry professionals and seek advice from seasoned pilots. I’m also working on building resilience and self-confidence to face the inevitable obstacles ahead. Every challenge is fuel for my passion and proof of my commitment. Ultimately, my dream isn’t just about flying planes, it’s about soaring past the limits society tries to place on us. I want to prove that women belong in every space, at every altitude, and that our dreams are as boundless as the skies we navigate. Becoming a pilot is my way of leaving a legacy, one flight at a time.