A Journey of Flight by Caden

A Journey of Flight by Caden - August 2024 Scholarship Essay

Dear Panel,

Thank you for your commitment to supporting young scholars and for taking the time to review my journey. I am aware that many students deserve your support, but I hope my story stands out as a testament to passion, calling, struggle, and triumph. I hope it resonates with you, even if I am not selected for your scholarship.

From a young age, aviation has been my passion. Even before I could walk, my parents would take me to ride the ‘airplane go-round’ at the park. I loved those rides so much that I would only get off when I felt dizzy and sick. As I grew older, I would gaze out the car window, dreaming of flying like the birds who seemed to defy gravity. Despite understanding the financial demands of aviation, and hearing that “aviation is a rich man’s game,” I remained determined to pursue my dream.

At thirteen, I joined the Civil Air Patrol, where my dedication led me to the rank of Chief Master Sergeant. This achievement allowed me to attend glider school in New Mexico. There, I trained intensively and graduated at the top of my class, earning the opportunity to fly solo for the first time. Flying alone at 5,000 feet, with the New Mexico desert stretching out below, was both exhilarating and humbling. When I landed, and my fellow Cadets celebrated with me, I knew that this path was truly mine.

Motivated by this experience, I worked hard with the Civil Air Patrol, saved money for a car, and focused on my high school education. I surrounded myself with supportive people who kept me accountable, knowing that there would be challenging days. I prepared meticulously for the CADET WINGS PROGRAM, a competitive scholarship that funds initial pilot’s license training for Civil Air Patrol cadets. In 2023, thousands applied, but I was one of only 85 selected. I proudly completed my training on June 28, 2024, becoming the 334th graduate to earn a private pilot’s license through this program.

My journey has been demanding, but it is only the beginning. My next big educational goal is to pursue a degree in Professional Pilot and airplane mechanics, with an education costing over $200,000. I aim to graduate debt-free to serve as an aviator for a non-profit organization. Many non-profits deliver humanitarian aid to the most remote regions of the world. These pilots risk their lives to provide medical supplies, education, and other vital resources to isolated communities. Organizations like Jungle Aviation And Relay Service (JAARS) and Samaritan’s Purse exemplify this vital work, enabling rapid medical evacuations where traditional access is almost impossible. This is the kind of mission I want to join. However, carrying student debt would hinder my ability to serve in this capacity. This is why I am committed to graduating without financial burdens.

As I reflect on how God has guided my path, I see His blessings in my unwavering love for aviation and my desire to help those in need. Even in difficult times, He has sustained me and fueled my passion for mission aviation. I hope you will support this essential work. The mission aviation movement is a critical but often overlooked field, and it relies on support from people like you.

Thank you for considering my application.

Deepest regards and blue skies,

Caden Kelley