From an Eighth-Grade Assignment to Aerospace Ambitions

Rahela Dolha (’27) can trace her path to aerospace engineering back to an unexpected moment: a simple eighth-grade classroom assignment.

“Believe it or not, I was inspired by a random eighth-grade in-class assignment that asked me to research three career paths that interested me,” said Dolha, a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering student at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Daytona Beach Campus.

At the time, her interests were clear — math and space. A quick search for “careers that use math and space” led her to aerospace engineering, complete with an image of the space shuttle.

“Being logically minded, I figured that if this career aligned so closely with my interests, then there was no reason to explore any other career paths,” she said. “I was going to become an aerospace engineer, without a question.”

That decision has remained firm ever since. 

Discovering Embry-Riddle

Dolha’s introduction to Embry-Riddle was just as unexpected. While attending a Bible study in her high school physics classroom, she noticed posters lining the walls highlighting seniors’ college commitments. One caught her attention.

“Of course, it was the Embry-Riddle poster,” she said. “I studied that poster for two whole years before I finally looked into the school.”

Once she did, everything clicked. With her goals already defined, Embry-Riddle’s focused engineering curriculum and community of like-minded students felt like the right place to grow.

“I was already so set on my goal,” Dolha said. “Why would I not want to be surrounded by like-minded individuals and be taught specialized classes?”

Community, Support and Purpose

Dolha says her experience at Embry-Riddle has exceeded expectations.

“I have found a genuine passion for what I do, and I see that passion in my classmates as well,” she said. “Despite being so far from my hometown, I know this was the right place for me.”

With many students coming from out of state or abroad, building connections came naturally.

“It was always easy to find others looking for that support system,” she said.

She also credits her professors and mentors for creating a supportive learning environment.

“They truly just want to see you grow,” Dolha said.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

Some of Dolha’s most meaningful experiences have come through Embry-Riddle’s Honors Program and lab-based research opportunities.

Through the Honors Derbyshire Community Garden, she connected with the Daytona Beach community while applying engineering skills in firsthand ways.

“I’ve been able to work with my hands, apply engineering skills in construction projects, and provide nutrient-dense foods to the immediate community, students and the local women’s shelter,” she said.

The program also offered exposure to the arts, including visits to local theaters, museums and nature walks.

“They provided a balance to my STEM education and allowed me to grow into a more well-rounded mindset,” Dolha said.

Research, Resilience and Recognition

Dolha’s lab-based research has been equally transformative. Through her work, she gained experience in technical writing, collaboration and professional presentations.

“It also taught me how to work with people, no matter your differences,” she said.

Her dedication paid off when she earned the IGNITE Grant as a sophomore, despite having less than a year of research experience.

“I was completely overwhelmed by the fast-paced environment and the many complex projects I was competing against,” Dolha said. “Yet I persevered and won $5,500 for my research.”

She has developed a particular interest in aerospace materials engineering, with research focused on material characterization and electrochemistry.

“Becoming professionally trained in the equipment and learning how to fine-tune them has been my favorite aspect of my research thus far,” she said.

Faith and the Future

Dolha is an active participant in Launch through Embry-Riddle’s Center for Faith and Spirituality, where she worships and attends a women’s Bible study alongside other students. The program has provided a space for connection, encouragement and reflection as she navigates the demands of engineering coursework.That foundation of faith and fellowship has helped her stay grounded and motivated throughout her academic journey.

Looking ahead, Dolha hopes to secure an engineering internship to gain practical industry experience. Ultimately, she plans to build a career in aerospace engineering.

“My advice to future engineering students would be to keep pressing on,” she said. “Allow yourself to fail, but not without first giving it your best possible effort. Stick with your passions and you will go far. Don’t lose that spark.”

With determination, purpose and a clear vision for the future, Dolha is already well on her way to turning an eighth-grade assignment into a lifelong career.