Anjelysa Oleszwski Builds on Legacy While Charting Her Own Course

“I’m 20 years old, and I’m working for the federal government!” Anjelysa Oleszwski’s ('26) excitement shines through as she reflects on her recent FAA internship. It is a standout entry on a resume she will be circulating after she completes her Bachelor of Science in Aerospace and Occupational Safety from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in 2026.

Working within the Innovations Division of Commercial Space Transportation, she contributed to research projects, including a comprehensive comparison between FAA goals and those of COMSTAC, a space transportation advisory committee. “I knocked my manager’s socks off with that one,” she recalls, her voice brimming with pride. However, her most memorable moment was being sworn in by the FAA Administrator. “Taking the oath felt surreal, like the culmination of all my hard work.”

Anjelysa’s drive for accident investigation shapes her career ambitions, but she remains open to exploring the myriad paths in aviation safety. "I love the puzzle of accident investigation," she says. "But there are countless other ways to work in safety, and I’m eager to explore every possibility." While her ultimate goal is to serve on the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), Anjelysa continues to discover opportunities as she gains experience and insight.

Her fascination with aviation safety ignited during the pandemic when her grandfather introduced her to a Smithsonian Channel show about aircraft accidents. "I was identifying the probable cause before they revealed it, and that’s when I knew this could be my career." Embry-Riddle became the clear choice as the place she would pursue her interests in aviation safety and minor in Space Operations.

A Legacy of Eagles

Her family’s deep Embry-Riddle legacy influenced her decision. Both of her parents are alumni. Her father, author Wes Oleszwski, created the Klyde Morris comic strip, which debuted in the student newspaper and had John Paul Riddle himself as a fan. Her mother, now a vice president in cybersecurity, and her aunt, who specializes in aircraft maintenance, are also graduates. “Having parents as alumni puts Embry-Riddle on your radar much sooner,” she explains, adding that she hopes her younger sister will join her on the Daytona Beach Campus in 2025.

Anjelysa faced a few academic hurdles. After a challenging freshman year that led to lost scholarships, she turned to her mother for support. "She told me not to panic—she had been on academic probation too. Hearing that made a huge difference," Anjelysa shares. With renewed determination and her family’s unwavering support, she refocused her academic efforts and has since flourished.

In addition to excelling academically, Anjelysa is a dynamic presence on campus. As a member of the Orientation Team, she welcomes new students and helps them find their footing. She is also active in the International Society of Air Safety Investigators and carries on her father’s legacy at The Avion student publication as a staff designer and former managing editor.

Building a professional network has become integral to Anjelysa’s success. "I have a great alumni network thanks to my parents, but the connections I’m forging in aviation safety are entirely my own," she emphasizes. From professors to industry leaders, Anjelysa actively seeks opportunities to establish relationships that will propel her toward her career aspirations.

Her advice to future students is clear and practical: "Go to the Career Fair as a freshman. Even if they don’t hire you, they’ll remember your name when you come back as a junior or senior." She also encourages getting involved on campus and form meaningful connections. "Go have fun, make friends and meet people in your degree program. Build that network—it will pay off."

Anjelysa’s network started with a few very familiar names – which she shares – but her connections and reputation continue to grow as she builds her career.