Brianna Nicole Punsalan Tan (’26) began her journey with a change in direction. 

Brianna, a recent summa cum laude graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Daytona Beach Campus, once envisioned a very different future. She studied Business Administration and worked in sales and marketing before deciding she wanted something more dynamic. 

“I didn’t see myself in a typical office role long term,” she said. 

An unexpected moment changed everything: a video highlighting careers, including aviation. The idea of becoming a pilot immediately stood out because it combined precision, responsibility and adventure. 

“That sparked my curiosity,” Brianna said. “Once I started learning more about aviation, I knew it was something I wanted to pursue.”

A New Flight Path

Brianna found the right environment at Embry-Riddle after hearing about the university from a neighbor in Singapore who worked as an airline captain. 

At the Daytona Beach Campus, she was drawn to the hands-on experience and proximity to flight operations, which bring classroom concepts to life.  

Her academic journey has pushed her to grow. Courses like aerodynamics and aircraft systems deepened her understanding of flight, while applied training challenged her to use that knowledge in real time. 

“Flight training has been the most challenging part,” she said. “You have to stay ahead of the aircraft and make decisions under pressure. It really teaches discipline and confidence.” 

Those lessons have helped shape her long-term goals.  

Competing for Singapore  

For Brianna, representing Singapore wasn’t just a personal milestone — it was part of a historic moment for her team and country. 

While building her aviation career at Embry-Riddle, Brianna competed with the Singapore Women’s National Ice Hockey Team at the 33rd Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Bangkok, Thailand, under the Singapore National Olympic Council in December 2025. It marked the program’s first qualification for the SEA Games, following a bronze medal at the Asia-Oceania Championships.

Brianna Tan holds a bronze medal on the hockey rink with a teammate
Brianna Tan (right) with a bronze medal at the SEA Games in Bangkok. (Photo: Brianna Tan)
Brianna Punsalan plays hockey blocking another player on the opposing team
Brianna (left) competes during the Asia-Oceania Championship. (Photo: Brianna Tan)

“It meant a lot to be part of something like that,” Brianna said. “Wearing the national jersey and competing on that stage was something I had worked toward for a long time.” 

Competing internationally also reshaped her perspective on teamwork and discipline. 

“Being surrounded by high-level athletes pushed me to improve,” Brianna said. “It taught me a lot about commitment and supporting the team in any role.”

Balancing Ice and Aviation

Balancing aviation studies with international athletics requires careful time management and consistency, skills Brianna has developed through experience. She also trains with a women’s traveling hockey team, participates in local leagues in South Daytona and Orlando, and attends drop-in sessions to continue developing her skills. 

Brianna said, “That kind of community has made a big difference. It keeps me motivated and helps me continue developing my game, even without a traditional training environment.” 

The same discipline that helped her team reach the SEA Games also drives her academic success at Embry-Riddle. Being surrounded by motivated peers has reinforced that mindset. 

“Everyone here is working toward something demanding,” she said. “That environment pushes you to stay focused.” 

In addition to her academic and athletic commitments, Brianna has taken on leadership roles beyond the classroom. She previously served as president of the Filipino Students Association, helping create a sense of community and connection among students on campus.

What Comes Next

As she looks ahead, Brianna is focused on building a career in aviation while continuing to grow as an athlete. She is especially interested in cargo aviation but remains open to the wide range of opportunities within the industry.  

Brianna added, “Stay consistent and be honest about your priorities. Balancing academics and athletics can be overwhelming, but showing up every day makes a significant difference. Good time management and a strong support system of friends, teammates and family also help a lot.” 

From making history on the ice to preparing for a future in aviation, Brianna continues to pursue each goal with focus, resilience and purpose. 

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