Charting a Career Path: Adam Zaraszczak’s Journey Through Internship

Choosing the Right Path

Adam Zaraszczak’s (’21, ’26) choice to study at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Business Administration and graduating in May 2026 with a Master of Business Administration, was driven by his enthusiasm for aviation and business. “I've always loved the behind-the-scenes 'Tetris puzzle' of aviation — how every moving part aligns perfectly to keep things running smoothly,” he said. “My time here has proven that this aviation focus extends far beyond the classroom.”

Discovering the Internship Opportunity

Internships are a crucial component of education at Embry-Riddle. “I learned about this opportunity through the American Association of Airport Executives website,” Zaraszczak said. “Erie International Airport is a relatively small operation — I knew that I would have the opportunity to explore basically every part of airport operations/management.”

And the moment he stepped onto the runway in Erie, Zaraszczak knew he was exactly where he was supposed to be.

A Summer of Learning and Growth

Zaraszczak was drawn to Erie International Airport in Erie, Pennsylvania, because, unlike major airports with rigidly compartmentalized roles, it offered him the chance to explore every aspect of airport operations. His responsibilities at Erie were as varied as they were vital:  airfield operations, conducting safety inspections, handling lighting repairs, mitigating wildlife hazards and issuing notices to airmen.

By mid-summer, Zaraszczak had earned enough trust to operate independently in the Air Operations Area. One highlight was assisting with the annual Part 139 inspection, a rigorous Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) review that ensures airports comply with safety and emergency response standards.

Sharing his passion during an aviation summer camp for middle schoolers was a fun and rewarding experience, reminding him of the excitement that first drew him to aviation. “It was a lot of fun seeing all the excitement from the kids and being able to talk to them about my own experience,” Zaraszczak shared.

Prepared for Real-World Challenges

With coursework tailored to the aviation industry, Zaraszczak found himself well-prepared for the practical challenges that lay ahead. Airport Management (BA 310) with Jay Cassens made his transition into the internship seamless. “Professor Cassens taught me so much about airport management — I was able to get right into the swing of things when I started on day one because of my aviation background.”

Communication proved to be one of Zaraszczak’s most valuable skills during his internship and beyond. He credits Lynn Koller’s Speech (COM219) class as one of the most important of his career. “I was given training to use the radio, and I quickly learned the importance of being clear and concise over the air,” he shared. “I used a lot of communication skills during my internship, with other operations specialists and, most importantly, the air traffic control tower.”

The practical application of classroom knowledge was evident when Zaraszczak  spent a day with Erie’s CFO. Thanks to his studies in Corporate Finance (FIN 332), Adam was able to follow and contribute to discussions about the complex budgeting process.

Reflections on the Internship

Zaraszczak learned that airport work is anything but monotonous, and every day brought new challenges. Initially uncertain whether he wanted to focus on airlines, airports or manufacturing, his experiences at Erie made it clear that a career in airport operations is a perfect fit for his active lifestyle and professional interests.

The ability to earn course credit for the internship was a bonus.

Advice for Future Interns

“Step outside your comfort zone,” he recommends. “It can lead to the most rewarding opportunities.” His summer in Erie was a testament to the rewards of doing just that. He got the opportunity to explore a new part of the country, even taking a road trip around Lake Erie into Canada, and enjoyed the variety of experiences the internship offered.

Looking Forward

As graduation approaches, Adam is focused on securing a full-time position in the airport industry. The skills, confidence and knowledge gained during his internship have prepared him to make a significant impact in an airport management role. Adam looks back on his internship as the cornerstone of his career development — a summer that shaped not only his professional direction but also his sense of purpose in aviation.