Boeing Scholar's Passion for Travel Gives Her Wings

Angulo, a graduate of Long Beach Polytechnic High School and a Latina first-generation college student, is among The Boeing Company’s 2022 class of scholars supported by $3 million endowment to expand and diversify the aviation workforce. Before applying for the Boeing Scholars program, Angulo had only become interested in the aviation industry during her junior year of high school before learning about Embry-Riddle.

What began your interest in flight?

I wasn't sure what I wanted to pursue a career in, so I started researching jobs that would allow me to travel often. Being a pilot stood out to me. I wondered why I had never thought to become a pilot before and I came to the conclusion that there aren't enough women in this field.

What motivated you to become a pilot?

While I was talking to a teacher about my plan to become a pilot, he put me in contact with one of his students that had the same interest. He told me that he would be doing his degree in aeronautical science, so I learned about it and thought it would be the best option for me as well.

I wanted to become a pilot because I thought it'd be exciting to be one a few women in aviation. When I began my flight training, I realized that I enjoy flying and learning more and more about airplanes and how they operate under different conditions.

How did you learn about Embry-Riddle's Prescott, Arizona, Campus?

I learned about Embry-Riddle from my search of good schools to pursue a degree in aviation. I decided to come to the Prescott Campus because it is the one closest to home.

How does it feel to be a Boeing Scholar?

I am one of about 24 Boeing Scholars attending the Prescott campus. After talking to Kevin Hewerdine, Prescott Campus’ Executive Director of the Center for Career and Professional Development, I learned that the goal is to encourage more pilots in the field so that Boeing may have people flying more of their planes in the future. It feels like an honor to be working with Boeing. When I told my family about the scholarship, my dad was extremely proud of me to have landed a scholarship with such a big company like Boeing.

What has your Embry-Riddle experience been like so far?

Riddle has been a great learning experience. Coming with no knowledge of the aviation field, I am proud of my progress within my classes and with my flight training. I am excited to earn my Private Pilot Certificate so that I can take my parents on a flight with me as the pilot.

As a first-year flight student, have you had any opportunities to fly?

I started my flight training in the middle of October, so I've gotten to fly a few times. My instructor tells me that I am making good progress given that I only started flying here at Riddle. It's a bit stressful trying to remember everything that goes into flying, but overall, it's pretty fun.

What are your future aspirations in flight?

I plan on being a Certified Flight Instructor here at Riddle for a couple years and then going to the airlines. I'm not sure which one yet, I just know that my ultimate goal is to go overseas. I am a first generation Hispanic, so eventually I'd like to fly to Mexico.

What advice would you have to high school students interested in aviation?

My advice would be to review documents such as SOPA (Standard Operating Procedures Amplifier), PIM (Procedures Information Manual) and know a bit about aviation if you don't already. It's certainly possible to learn everything you need to know at Riddle, though!