A Boeing Scholar's Journey to the Skies

Liyat Tsehai (’27) is in her first year at Embry‑Riddle on the Prescott Campus, studying Aeronautical Science. As a member of the Black Student Union and the Ninety-Nines, she’s diving headfirst into her campus experience.

Liyat was selected as one of nine 2023 Boeing Scholars. As part of a longtime relationship between Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University and The Boeing Company, the Boeing Scholars program is an initiative to develop students for careers in aviation. Selected students benefit from a scholarship, networking opportunities, trips to Boeing facilities and advantages toward internship consideration.

Boeing’s Pilot and Technician Outlook for 2023-2042 anticipates a need for 649,000 new pilots and 690,000 new maintenance technicians over the next 20 years. They have recognized the need to bring more diversity into the industry, which is why the Boeing Scholars program primarily selects women, people of color and veterans—all members of underrepresented populations in the aviation industry.

How do you feel about being selected as a Boeing Scholar?

I am very grateful and honored to be selected as a Boeing Scholar. I’ve worked hard to maintain high grades and it is very encouraging to see my efforts rewarded. I am very excited for the opportunities this scholarship will bring, one of the biggest ones being the possibility of an internship with Boeing.

Where are you from? What was it like growing up?

I am from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. I had a happy childhood. I grew up with my dad and grandparents. They understood the importance of education and made sure I did, too. They’ve encouraged me to work hard, and that helped shape me into the person I am today.

What made you choose to study Aeronautical Science?

I chose to major in Aeronautical Science because of my passion for aviation and my aspirations to become a pilot. It goes a step further from flight training by helping me get a better understanding of everything I need to know as a pilot, ultimately making me become a better pilot.

What’s it like living on the Prescott Campus?

I am really enjoying it so far. I was a little worried about the idea of living with two other people I didn’t know, but I am happy to say that I get along with my roommates very well and one of them has turned out to be a good friend of mine.

My favorite experience so far would be the OctoberWest Fair. I really enjoyed the drone show.

Who have been your biggest supporters in life and your education?

My biggest supporters in life have been my family. They have always prioritized my education and success over everything else, giving their all to make sure I have everything I need to succeed. My teachers have also played an important role in supporting me. They have always believed in my potential and encouraged me to do my best.

How is Embry‑Riddle preparing you for the future?

Embry‑Riddle is preparing me for the future by providing me with high-quality education and different events and opportunities where I can network with people in my field of interest.

What are your goals after you graduate?

My short-term goal after I graduate is to accumulate enough flight hours in order to meet the ATP [Airline Transport Pilot] requirement and start my career as a pilot. My long-term goal is to become a captain with major airlines like United Airlines or Delta.

Where can Embry‑Riddle take you? Apply today and find out!