Forecasting Success: Becoming a Writer, Editor and Meteorologist at Embry-Riddle

“One of my main goals when choosing a career path was to have fun doing my job. The weather is different every day, so being able to go to work and doing something different every day is what I am looking forward to.”

When Preite chose to pursue a degree in Communication, the Broadcast Meteorology track at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University stood out as an opportunity that would set her up perfectly for her goals.

“I chose Embry-Riddle because I knew that I wouldn’t be just another number in the body of students,” she said. “With the small population, I knew that I would be able to make connections with professors and get a lot of one-on-one focus with them, which allowed me to make connections that I will keep even after graduation.”

On campus, Preite is involved with various organizations that underscore the knowledge she gains throughout her courses. She is the chief meteorologist and a copy editor for The Avion, a founder and ambassador for the Communication Club and chair of communication for the College of Arts & Sciences Student Council — an appointment she was initially nominated for and later renominated for by faculty in her department.

Writing for Aero Crew News

In her studies of communication, meteorology and the intersection of the two, Preite has had the opportunity to delve deeper into these fields that drive her passion.

“It all started in my Aviation and Aerospace Communication course taught by Professor Steven Master. He tasked us with writing an article that had some sort of tie to aviation and aerospace,” she said.

A simple enough task, Preite settled on the topic of Hurricane Hunters relatively quickly. Other students continued searching for a subject that interested them. To help, her professor asked the class to search the internet for something they liked, followed by the word “aviation.”

“Even though I had a topic set, I did it anyway. I have a big sweet tooth, so I decided to type in ‘cookies aviation,’ and the first website to pop up was the Aviator Cookie Company. I instantly clicked on it and started reading about them,” Preite said. “Turns out, it’s a cookie company but with an aviation aspect tied to it. After clicking the ‘About’ section on the website, I soon learned that the founder and owner of the company was a pilot and Embry-Riddle alumni!”

Excited by the fun subject matter, Preite reached out to the founder of the cookie company, Pilot Chris Welch. After interviewing Welch and writing her story, Preite shared her work with her professor, who saw the potential for the story to become something even bigger.

“Through his connections, he was able to reach out to Aero Crew News, and they picked up the story! After a few conversations with them, I learned that my article would be published in their January 2025 issue.”

Before her piece was published, the team at Aero Crew News reached out to inform Preite that she had inspired something even greater — a new column titled “Moonlight.”

“Essentially, this column is going to feature pilots who have ‘side hustles’ outside of flying,” Preite said. “I was shocked but so happy that I was able to help out the company with just one story.”

The impact of Preite’s cookie story didn’t end there. In addition to inspiring a new recurring column, Aero Crew News offered Preite a position within their organization as a contributing editor.

“Overall, I am so thankful for the opportunity and glad that I got to make my mark,” Preite said. “Additionally, I could not have done this without help and mentoring from Professor Master!”

Steven Master, associate professor and associate chair of the Department of Humanities and Communication, is one of many professors at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University who are dedicated to student development, advancement and success.

“I would just like to say that I have so much respect for my professors,” Preite says. “They have become mentors who have helped me with so much, whether it’s schoolwork or job hunting. They have devoted so much time to helping me, and I greatly appreciate their hard work and dedication!”

“Additionally, my position will entail a lot of community involvement, which has always been a passion of mine. Being able to keep the community informed through the good and bad weather days but also being able to go out and get involved with them is what I strive toward.”

As her educational journey nears its end, Preite reflects on the experiences, support and growth that have helped her reach where she is now.

“I could not and would not be in the position I am today without my parents. They are my overall motivation. Without them, I would not have the guidance, perseverance or dedication that I have to keep working hard both inside and outside of school,” she remarked. “I cannot thank them enough.”

Speaking of hard work, Preite shared her best advice for students in the midst of their own educational experience.

“I know it may not be easy at times, and things can get very overwhelming, but that is temporary! Keep driving toward your goals because I promise it is all going to pay off once you are walking across that stage on graduation and entering the work field.”

Preite’s journey, shaped by a passion for her field, a strong support system and courses that guided her journey to success, is just beginning as she crosses the graduation stage.