Hey everyone. Finals week is almost done, but that doesn’t mean all campus activities are over. Last week, the American Meteorological Society (AMS) chapter on campus took a trip to the National Hurricane Center, located on Florida International Universities’ (FIU) campus in Miami. This trip had been months in the making, as myself and the rest of the AMS officers have been coordinating the itinerary since November.
AMS in front of the NHC sign!
We left campus just before 8 am for the long bus ride to Miami, and made it to the center by 12:30 pm. It was such a fun bus ride getting to bond with everyone, even through the Florida downpours.
Inside the NHC!
It was so surreal to be at the National Hurricane Center. All the walls of the building, both inside and outside, are made of reinforced concrete to protect it in the event of a hurricane. As someone who got into meteorology and charted my career path by tracking hurricanes, it was super cool to be in the place where they forecast them in real time. We got to meet the different teams, including the forecasting, storm surge, ocean, modeling, hurricane hunter, and emergency management. They all have different jobs, but it was super cool to see how they all contributed to one goal: keeping the public safe and informed during hurricanes.
The tracking chart for hurricanes inside the NHC!
After the tour, we got to explore FIU’s campus, and we got a late lunch at the Chili’s in their student center. It was so cool getting to walk around their campus, before getting back on the bus to Daytona. Thankfully, traffic wasn’t too bad by Miami standards, and we made it back to campus later that night.
Group picture outside NHC!
This was a super fun and informative trip for all students involved, and I am so glad I had the opportunity to help organize and attend. It was definitely a great trip to end the year off.
It feels like I almost disappeared off the face of the earth! You guys haven’t heard from me in a while, and for good reason. Exams, projects, and the impending doom of finals has occupied my mind for a couple weeks now. But through all of the hardships and stress that I worked through, I never once stopped for a moment to look back and see just how far I’ve come from the beginning of freshman year to the end. I treated most of my assignments, events, and personal goals as things that just needed to be “checked off” my to-do list. While checking tasks off my to-do list gave me relief, I didn’t always take time to reflect on what I had accomplished. From this, I learned two important lessons during my first year in college. 🤍
You get to learn more about who you are as a person.
Throughout freshman year, I kind of just rolled with the flow. But as time went on, I realized that I wasn’t only learning in the classrooms, but I was learning outside of the PowerPoints too. And not just about wind shear, derivatives, or Sigmund Freud’s view on psychology (when you learn what I’m talking about, come talk to me!), but I was learning about myself. My study routine, breakfast routine, what environment I get the most amount of work done, my self-discovery was endless. As a result of this, I was able to utilize every hour of my day into something productive. There were times when I felt that I was wasting my time doing something, so I learned to take a break, take a walk, come back to the assignment, and regroup. I discovered that one of my strengths is planning my day effectively, but a weakness is not allowing enough time for myself.
Over time, I grew more confident in myself, my appearance, and my ideas, which was incredibly rewarding. This confidence allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and take on new opportunities I might have avoided before. College is an amazing place to learn how to grow, and I’m grateful that I got to grow in the environment I did at Embry-Riddle.
Getting to learn how to fail and recover from failure.
More times than not have I had to step back from a moment and learn how to move forward with failure. At the beginning of my freshman year, I viewed failure as a setback, but I now understand it as a way to grow. It started in my intro to chemistry class. I didn’t take chemistry in high school, and it was like learning a different language. I had never learned the symbols on the periodic table, and I still probably couldn’t tell you what they mean if you asked me today. I don’t know how I passed that class, but I did. That class not only taught me what some of my weaknesses are (chemistry), but that I just have to do my absolute best, and that’s all I can ask from myself.
When a topic is hard to understand, I put in the extra effort by studying, watching videos, and asking others for help. Despite this, there are still times when I don’t fully grasp the material or perform as well as I would like on a test. I used to get very frustrated with myself, but I learned that these times don’t define me as a person and I needed to change my mind set about how I viewed failing. Now, I think of failing as redirection. Something that will guide me towards where I need to be in life.
This was more of a serious blog, but one that I thought would be helpful to read. I hope everyone has a great summer and takes the time to relax and enjoy time with family, their pets, or a good book.
Hey y’all! Move-out day can get chaotic fast. Between packing, cleaning, and making sure you don’t forget anything, it’s a lot to handle all at once. After going through it, I’ve learned that a little planning goes a long way in making the whole process smoother.
Start Earlier Than You Think One of the best things you can do is start packing before move-out day actually arrives. Even just putting away things you don’t use every day makes a huge difference. Waiting until the last minute only adds unnecessary stress.
Sort as You Pack Instead of throwing everything into boxes, take the time to sort through your stuff. Make piles of what you’re keeping, tossing, or base it on what room the items are for. It saves space and makes unpacking later so much easier.
Keep Essentials Separate Pack a small bag with things you’ll need on move-out day, like chargers, important papers, snacks, and anything you don’t want buried in a box. Trust me, digging through everything later is not fun.
Label Everything It might seem small, but labeling your boxes makes a big difference. Knowing exactly what’s in each box helps when you’re unloading and trying to find things later. That way when you inevitably need that one item you’ve been looking for it can easily be found.
Clean as You Go Don’t save all the cleaning for the very end. Wipe things down and throw away trash as you pack. It makes the final clean-up much quicker and less overwhelming. Make sure to follow the cleanliness standards for dorm room move out! Most of the time they are on a poster somewhere in your hallway.
Ask for Help Move-out day is not the time to try and do everything alone. Whether it’s friends or family, having extra hands makes the process faster and way less stressful. Also, your residence hall may have blue bins available for use. They help a lot, trust me.
Final Thoughts Move-out day doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little preparation and some simple strategies, it can actually go pretty smoothly. Just take it one step at a time, and before you know it, you’ll be all packed up and ready for summer! Until next time, Olivia Strickland ✈️
Hey everyone! I hope you all are off to a great April so far! My mom and younger brother were in town recently, and I had the opportunity to visit the Kennedy Space Center for the first time. Despite going to Riddle for almost three years and going to the cape as credentialed media for rocket launches, I never took a day to visit the space center and visitor complex until now.
September 2024 when I got to interview the Crew 9 astronauts at the Space Force Base!
We started off our day with the bus tour through the different launch sites on the Cape. This was so cool to be able to see the roads where they transport the rockets from the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) to the different launch pads. The day before we visited, they had moved the Artemis II rocket from the VAB to its launch pad in an operation that took over 12 hours. We didn’t know this going into our day trip, so this was a super fun surprise. We could see the rocket waiting on its launchpad off in the distance for the Artemis II launch that happened a few weeks later.
The Artemis II rocket off in the distance!
Another cool thing that you are able to see are different museums for the space missions. My favorite museum was the one that had the Space Shuttle Atlantis in it. Getting to see the shuttle up close was super cool, and the exhibits inside the museum were also super informative.
The Space Shuttle Atlantis on display for visitors in one of the museums!
And of course we could not leave the Space Center without getting our Astronaut Ice Cream! These freeze dried ice cream sandwiches were so good, and a great way to end my first time visiting the Space Center! Embry-Riddle students can get discounted tickets through the ICI center, just like they do for theme park tickets. And since it is only an hour drive away, it is super easy for Embry-Riddle students to get to.
A view of the Vehicle Assemble Building (VAB) from the bus tour!
Have you ever been to the Kennedy Space Center, or to the cape for a rocket launch? Let me know in the comments down below!
Finals week is one of those times in college where everything starts to feel a little overwhelming. There’s a lot to review, a lot to remember, and not always enough time to do it all. Over time, I’ve learned that having the right study tools and knowing when to ask for help can make a huge difference.
Finding Study Tools That Work
One thing that’s really helped me during finals is using tools like Quizlet. Flashcards have become one of my go-to methods for studying because they make it easier to break information into smaller pieces. Instead of rereading notes over and over, I can actively test myself, which helps things stick better. I’ve also learned that not every study method works for everyone. It takes a little trial and error to figure out what helps you understand the material best, but once you find it, studying becomes a lot more manageable.
Studying Smarter, Not Harder
Instead of trying to cram everything at once, I try to study in smaller sessions. Even just going over a few topics at a time can make a big difference. It helps me stay focused and not feel as overwhelmed by everything I need to cover.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
One of the most important things I’ve learned is to ask for help when I need it. Whether it’s reaching out to classmates, forming a study group, or going to a professor’s office hours, those conversations can really clear things up. Sometimes hearing something explained a different way makes it click instantly. Plus, chances are someone else has the same question you do.
You’re Not Alone in This
Finals can feel isolating, but everyone around you is going through the same thing. Leaning on your peers and supporting each other makes the whole experience a little easier. Even just studying alongside someone can help keep you motivated. Also, remember to take breaks and enjoy the beautiful campus that Embry-Riddle has. Sometimes a walk around campus can really help ease stress.
Final Thoughts
Finals week is stressful, but it’s also manageable with the right approach. Using helpful study tools, breaking things down, and asking for help when you need it can make all the difference. Just take it one step at a time, and remember you’ve made it this far for a reason.
I recently finished Season 4 of Love on the Spectrum, and I just have to say… I loved it. It’s one of those shows that’s easy to watch but also leaves you thinking about it long after the episode ends.
What Makes It So Special
What I really appreciate about this show is how genuine it feels. Nothing about it seems overly produced or forced. It focuses on real people, real emotions, and real experiences when it comes to dating and relationships. That honesty is what makes it stand out.
The People
Every season introduces such unique and memorable individuals, and Season 4 is no different. Watching everyone navigate dating in their own way is both heartwarming and, at times, a little nerve-wracking. You find yourself rooting for them so quickly. It also shows that there isn’t just one right way to connect with someone. Everyone’s approach is different, and that’s what makes it so interesting to watch.
My Favorite Moment (Spoiler Alert!)
My favorite moment from the season was Madison and Tyler’s engagement. It was such a sweet and genuine moment, and you could really feel how happy they were. Watching their journey throughout the show made that moment even more special, and it honestly made me smile so much.
Compared to Other Dating Shows
Compared to shows like Love Island, this one feels completely different. While Love Island is more about drama, fast-paced relationships, and entertainment, Love on the Spectrum focuses on real connections and personal growth. There’s nothing wrong with enjoying both, but this show feels more grounded. It’s less about competition and more about understanding people and how they form relationships, which makes it stand out in a really refreshing way.
Why I Keep Watching
I think the reason I enjoy this show so much is because it’s uplifting without trying too hard to be. It reminds you that dating doesn’t have to be perfect, it just has to be real. Watching people put themselves out there and take chances is really inspiring.
Final Thoughts
Season 4 of Love on the Spectrum was such a good watch. It’s wholesome, genuine, and just overall feel-good. If you’re looking for something light but still meaningful, I’d definitely recommend it.
March was a month full of movement, learning, and unforgettable experiences. From the energy of San Francisco during the ACP conference, to meaningful leadership development in Tampa with the Orientation Team, and finally to inspiring conversations with future students in Pittsburgh with Women’s Ambassadors, each trip brought new perspectives and opportunities for growth. Traveling for different organizations and purposes reminded me how powerful it is to step outside of your routine — meeting new people, sharing ideas, and representing the communities that have shaped my college experience. What started as a busy travel schedule quickly became a month of connection, inspiration, and personal development.
First Stop: San Francisco, CA
My March travels began in San Francisco at the American Collegiate Press Conference (ACP), where I had the incredible opportunity to represent The Avion and speak alongside student journalists from across the country. Attending ACP was especially meaningful because it wasn’t just about learning — it was about contributing to conversations surrounding student media and sharing the work we are passionate about on our own campus.
I traveled with Noelle, another blogger here, and experiencing the conference together made the trip even more memorable. Throughout the conference, we attended sessions focused on storytelling, content creation, and the evolving role of student publications in a digital world. Hearing from experienced journalists and fellow student writers offered new perspectives on how media can inform, connect, and create impact within college communities.
Presenting at ACP pushed me outside of my comfort zone in the best way. Speaking about our work allowed me to reflect on the importance of student voices and the responsibility that comes with representing a publication and a university. The experience strengthened my confidence as both a writer and communicator while reinforcing how powerful student journalism can be.
Of course, being in San Francisco also meant exploring a new city together — making the trip a perfect balance of professional growth, creativity, and adventure. We went to the markets, got lots of coffee, and of course took ACP set the tone for a month filled with learning, leadership, and meaningful connections.
Now its time for the best part of the whole trip…… the photos!!!!
Next Stop: University of South Florida In Tampa
After San Francisco, my travels continued closer to home in Tampa, where I attended the Student Learning Opportunity Conference at the University of South Florida with our Orientation Team. This experience was centered on leadership development, collaboration, and learning how to better serve incoming students as orientation leaders.
Throughout the conference, I attended a variety of sessions focused on communication, team dynamics, creating inclusive environments, and making a lasting impact on new students during their transition to college. Each session encouraged us to reflect on our roles not just as leaders, but as mentors and role models for future students beginning their college journeys.
Here is my family of orientation leaders. Being on this team have given me the chance to make lifelong friends that are here to support each other through everything.
One of the most meaningful parts of the trip was attending alongside the Orientation Team — a group I truly consider my college family. Spending time learning and growing together strengthened our bond and gave us new ideas to bring back to campus as we prepare to welcome the next incoming class. The conference reminded me that orientation is about more than schedules and campus tours; it’s about creating belonging, building confidence, and helping students feel at home from day one.
Leaving Tampa, I felt energized and excited for the upcoming orientation season, carrying new leadership skills and inspiration that will shape how I support future students.
Last Stop: Pittsburg, Pennsylvania
My final trip of March took me to Pittsburgh with the Women Ambassadors, and it was the perfect way to close out a month full of travel and connection. This trip focused on building relationships, strengthening our community, and celebrating leadership alongside an inspiring group of women.
While in Pittsburgh, we had the opportunity to explore some of the city’s most unique and vibrant locations. One of our first stops was Randyland, a colorful outdoor art space filled with murals, creativity, and positivity that instantly set the tone for the trip. We also visited Strip District, where local markets, shops, and restaurants gave us a taste of the city’s culture and energy.
One of the most memorable experiences was visiting Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, which was absolutely gorgeous. Walking through the conservatory surrounded by vibrant flowers, intricate displays, and peaceful greenery created a moment to slow down and truly appreciate the experience. It was both relaxing and inspiring — a reminder of how travel allows you to reset while still growing alongside the people around you.
Looking back, March was more than just a series of trips — it was a reminder of how travel can expand both professional goals and personal confidence. Each city offered something different: innovation and industry insight in San Francisco, teamwork and leadership in Tampa, and empowerment and mentorship in Pittsburgh. These experiences strengthened my passion for aviation, leadership, and community involvement, while also allowing me to build relationships that will last far beyond this semester. As the semester continues, I’m carrying forward the lessons, inspiration, and memories from a month that truly pushed me to grow both personally and professionally.
Hey y’all! Now that the Fly By Film Festival is over, I can honestly say it was such a fun experience. After all the planning and preparation, seeing everything come together made it completely worth it. The turnout was amazing, and it was so exciting to see so many people come out to support.
Seeing It All Come Together After weeks of planning, the night of the festival felt a little surreal. Everything we had been working on finally came to life, and it was so rewarding to see it all run smoothly, with the exception of the fire alarm going off. From start to finish, the energy in the room was just really positive.
An Amazing Turnout One of the best parts of the night was the turnout. Seeing the Event Center filled with people there to watch and support student films made the whole experience even more special. It really showed how much interest and support there is for creative work on campus.
Celebrating Everyone’s Work Getting to watch all the films on the big screen was definitely a highlight. Everyone put so much time and effort into their projects, and it showed. It was really cool to see all the different ideas and styles come together in one event. A big congratulations to Antonio Clark for winning best film!
Why It Meant So Much Being part of the planning process made the night even more meaningful. As Director of Operations, I got to see everything that goes on behind the scenes, and it made me appreciate the final result even more. It was busy at times, but moments like this make it all worth it. The club also decided to dedicate the film festival to David Guerra, and that made everything just a bit more meaningful.
Final Thoughts The Fly By Film Festival turned out to be such a success, and I’m so glad I got to be part of it. It was fun, exciting, and a great reminder of how much can be accomplished when people come together to create something. Until next time, Olivia Strickland ✈️
Spring break was upon us last week, and boy was it needed! My drive home is always long (7.5 hours with traffic), but it’s really rewarding when I finally pull into my driveway. I spent my spring break with my family, and it was the perfect reset I needed before jumping back into emails, homework, and exams.
The first half of my spring break we spent in Brookhaven, Georgia. My sister was touring Oglethorpe University. It was kind of crazy seeing my sister looking at colleges, because I still think she’s little. It’s a weird feeling as the oldest sibling, but I’ve learned to cope with the fact that my two little sisters will grow up eventually.
The campus was really pretty. It was built in 1835, which makes it a very old campus. Nonetheless, every building gave me Hogwarts vibes. Built with some type of stone, it definitely has the gothic revival architecture style. If you’ve seen Stranger Things, the very last episode of the last season, they filmed Dustin’s college scene at Oglethorpe.
Once we got back from Georgia, my goal was simple: get tan, eat my mom’s homemade mac n cheese, and go to the beach. I devoured my mom’s mac n cheese the second I got home, and I was able to combine my goal of getting tan with going to the beach. I may be a little biased here in saying that Navarre has the best beach on the West coast of Florida, but… oh well! The pictures speak for themselves.
The crystal clear, blue water and fluffy white sand is something I will never get tired of. I’m really grateful to have this as my view, and I take advantage of going to the beach anytime I can while I’m home. I expected to feel stressed about my homework while I was at the beach, but the sound of the waves and the warmth of the sun melted that worry away and finally let me relax. Be sure to remember your sunscreen!
As the week wrapped up, I realized how much I needed this break more than I initially thought. Between exploring Oglethorpe University with my sister and spending time by the ocean, I found myself slowing down in a way I haven’t in a while. Watching her get excited about her future reminded me of how far I’ve come in my own journey, and the quiet moments at the beach gave me space to breathe, reset, and simply exist without deadlines tugging at me. It wasn’t a flashy or overly busy spring break, but it was exactly the kind of pause I needed.
Hey everyone, welcome back for another blog! With Blue and Gold week upon us, I have returned from my trip to the mountains of Idaho. I went to go visit my friend who lives out there, and it was super cool because I had not been off the east coast up until this.
Beautiful Mountain Home sunset on my first night!
After some brief flight changes, I eventually made my way to Boise through Denver. The second I stepped off the plane, I was immediately in awe of the mountains and scenery of southern Idaho, especially coming from Daytona. We stopped in a town called Mountain Home after leaving the airport, and I was able to see my first mountain sunset.
Exploring Twin Falls!
On our first day, my friend and I braved the strong wind and explored downtown Boise, just in time for St. Patricks Day! Boise was such a nice city in between the mountains, with great restaurants and nice small businesses. On our second dat, we explored Twin Falls, Shoshone Falls, and the mountains in Sun Valley. On this day of the trip, I really got to take in Idaho’s natural beauty in different parts of the state.
My friend and I visiting the school where they filmed the High School Musical movies!
On my third day of the trip, we drove over three hours to Salt Lake City in Utah. Here, we got to explore their downtown, and even explore the school where they filmed the High School Musical movies at. This was a fun side quest day, where we were able to see even more of the mountain west. Finally, on my last day in Idaho, we explored the Craters of the Moon National Monument. Formed from lava turned to stone, this region of Idaho now looks like the surface of the moon. It was such a beautiful place to hike around for a final day in Idaho.
Craters of the Moon!
The next day brought a drive back to Salt Lake City to go catch my flight back to Daytona. I honestly had so much fun exploring Idaho, and it was even better getting to see my friend who moved out there! Now, I’m back on campus and ready for the fun Blue and Gold week will bring!
