Boeing Scholar Takes Flight Toward Pilot Dreams

Thanks to support from The Boeing Company, Camille Hawkins (’29), a graduate of Amphitheater High School in Tucson, Arizona, is one step closer to her dream of becoming an airline pilot.

Now a freshman studying Aeronautical Science at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Prescott Campus, Hawkins is one of the university’s Boeing Scholars. The competitive two-year scholarship recognizes high-achieving students with a passion for aviation, particularly in aeronautical and aviation maintenance sciences. 

A Spark Rekindled Through Reading

“I’ve always had a love for aviation,” Hawkins said. “Growing up in Tucson, I’d go to airshows and stare up at the sky in awe. That feeling stayed with me, even though I forgot about it for a while.”

Her passion was reignited when she picked up a book about a pilot.

“I found my aviation inspiration again through books,” she said. “Reading helped me decide on my career. Once I told my family, they were surprised by the sudden change, but later, they told me my great-grandpa had also been a pilot. Knowing aviation runs in the family gave me the reassurance I needed to go for it.”

The connection to aviation grew stronger when Hawkins’ older brother entered the field in aviation mechanics.

“It was amazing to find out we were both headed in the same direction, just different paths,” she said. “Having a sibling in aviation made the whole journey even more meaningful.”

A Scholarship That Makes a Difference

The Boeing Scholars program is awarded to select incoming students each spring. Outstanding academic achievement and demonstrated financial need are key factors in determining which students are selected.

In addition to financial assistance, recipients gain access to group projects, visits to Boeing facilities, potential internship and mentorship opportunities and networking events with Boeing professionals.

Receiving the Boeing Scholarship was a moment of validation for Hawkins.

“Being considered was an honor — but being selected reminded me that my hard work is seen and celebrated. It’s a huge encouragement.”

In addition to the financial support, Hawkins has already started building connections with professionals at Boeing and mentors on campus.

“I was able to connect with the executive director and advisor of Career and Professional Development at Embry-Riddle,” she said. “They gave me insight into what Boeing looks for in future candidates. That’s a connection that could grow into something bigger.”

Rising to the Challenge

Adjusting to the academic rigor of Embry-Riddle was a challenge at first, especially with the demands of flight training.

“The first two weeks were rough,” Hawkins admitted. “But I was able to adapt and find my groove. The Prescott Campus is so welcoming, and the living experience is fun and active. The study spots are amazing, and my instructors have become incredible mentors. Their support, along with my classmates and suitemates who are going through the same experience, has been key.”

She also learned quickly how to manage her time and energy.

“With all the freedom college gives you, it can be easy to get off track,” she said. “I had to learn how to stay organized — otherwise, I’d end up napping instead of studying. But once I created a plan, everything changed for the better.”

Her hard work paid off. After preparing for a particularly challenging Cessna systems test, Hawkins scored 105 out of 100.

“The whole class was stressed, but I went straight to the library and studied hard. Getting that score reminded me that I’m capable and that this path is worth it.”

Looking to the Skies

Hawkins dreams of flying for a major airline, such as Delta Air Lines, United Airlines or Emirates.

“This scholarship is helping me get there,” she said. “It means I can focus more on flight training instead of worrying about boarding or dining costs. That’s a huge blessing.”

She encourages other students who dream of aviation to be bold and to believe in themselves.