Well, I’ve survived my first semester in college and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome of my grades and the value of my experiences. For this blog post, I’ve decided to write about my top 10 favorite things about Embry-Riddle.
10. Small class sizes – This is one of the biggest advantages of coming to Embry-Riddle. You have a much better chance to get to know your classmates and your professors, and you can go to either of the two for help. You feel much more confident and compelled to ask questions.
9. Einstein’s Bagels – Einstein’s is great because it is open until 1:00 a.m. on weekdays. The other food options close at 9, so on those days when you’re out studying late or your club meetings run too long, you will never have to go hungry. Also, it’s perfect for late-night snacking.
8. Academic Advancement Center – I use the AAC for tutoring all the time. Not only can you go there to get help from the tutors, you can also get help from other people who have your same professor. In my opinion, it’s much better to study with friends than to struggle with something alone.
7. The weather – December rolled around and I could barely tell! Other than spontaneous rain showers and humidity, it’s nice for it to be reasonably warm all year ‘round. You can even visit the beach after your exams are over.
6. Professors – I really liked all the professors that I had this semester. They care for their students and will help you a lot if you visit them during their office hours. They’re willing to help you raise your grade if you are struggling, and recognize when you are putting your best effort into the class.
5. Living near Orlando – We know we should be studying, but one or two weekend trips to Orlando won’t hurt. The temptation of living an hour and a half from Disney World is too strong to resist. Save up your money and buy a discounted ticket from the school, and you won’t regret your Disney day trip with your friends.
4. ERRSA – The Embry-Riddle Resident Student association is one of the best organizations on campus. They put on programs for students living in the residence halls, and get input from the students about how housing can change to fit their needs. Most of all, we are one big family and we get the chance to do fun activities together!
3. The Robotics Association – RAER is one of the most valuable things to get involved in if you are going into a technical career. The organization offers opportunities for robotics teams, and will also keep you connected in outside robotics activities like FIRST.
2. Studying – As counterintuitive as it may seem, one of my favorite things about college is studying. Unlike high school, I really feel like what I am learning applies to things that I can and will do. Also, my study habits have improved since I’ve been in class, and now I don’t even have to study as much because I know how to help myself understand the material.
1. Dorm life – Without a doubt, dorm life is my favorite thing about being in college. I have made so many friends in the past few months that I know I will have for life. We can talk about anything, go anywhere, and help each other out on our schoolwork. It’s such a great feeling to have friends around you whenever you need them.
With that, I sign out and say goodbye for this semester. Let’s hope the next one will be even better!
Photo: My Flight poses for a picture after the fall 2012 Pass in Review Ceremony. 
On the flight training side of education at Embry-Riddle, I came up a little short of my goal of obtaining my pilots license by the end of this semester. All I need is two solo cross countries and then another two or three flights to prepare for my check ride, and then my actual check ride. The weather took a turn south this past week and I wasn’t able to fly at all this week. Hopefully I’ll have my license by the middle of January, and then begin working hard on trying to get my instrument rating by the end of next semester.
If you have any further questions, feel free to email me at 