Class trip to the Airport

One of the benefits about attending Embry-Riddle is its proximity to the airport. This is not only helpful to Aeronautical Science majors, as it provides some benefits to meteorology majors too. A few weeks ago my WX 327 (Operational Analysis and Forecasting) class has the opportunity to take a trip to the airport to visit the Automated Surface Observing System, also known as the ASOS.

The ASOS at Daytona Beach International Airport.

The ASOS is an unmanned weather station located at most airports that provides measurements of temperature, wind speed and direction, precipitation type, and visibility. All of this information is critical for the smooth operations of an airport, ensuring that all pilots and air traffic controllers are aware of current landing conditions to land planes safely.

After meeting at the airport, my class boarded buses where we were driven to the ASOS, which sits at the end of the runway on a patch of grass. This ensures that all the measurements are accurate, and that there are no close buildings or pavement to throw them off.

The fire station at Daytona Beach International Airport.

While we have been learning about this device in the classroom for the entire semester, being able to see it in person was a very valuable experience. I never realized the true scale of this system, as it is very tall and very long. This is one of the great things about Embry-Riddle, getting this real life learning experience on an average Wednesday since we are so fortunate to have the airport in our backyard. It has allowed myself and all the other students interested in meteorology to see an element of this first hand, something you can’t get just by going to a lecture.

Let me know what other trips you have been on for your classes down below!

Lights, Camera, Campus: My Experience with UnReel Media

Hey y’all!

I’m back! I hope everyone’s week has been going well. This week, I’d like to talk about my experiences in UnReel Media, Embry-Riddle’s film club. Previously, I mentioned that I’ve been working on my own short film and promised some updates — and now I finally have them! Alongside that, I’ve also been helping other club members with our club-wide short film, “lnside” by Clayton Loughary.



🎬 My Short Film: “Pieces of Us”

I began writing my short film over the summer after watching some videos about different stylistic choices writers can make. I’m a huge fan of the romance genre, so naturally, my story leans that way.

The film follows a young woman as she navigates her experiences with dating. A paper heart slowly tearing apart throughout the film symbolizes how her relationships and emotions begin to unravel — which inspired the working title: “Pieces of Us”.

Right now, I’m finalizing my script and putting together a shot list. Once those are complete, auditions will begin! The cast is small — one female lead and two male leads — but we’ll still need extras.

🎥 If you’re interested in auditioning, check out UnReel Media’s Instagram page for more information!



🎬 “Inside” by Clayton Loughary

This short film was written by UnReel Media’s president, Clayton Loughary, and explores human emotions and the roles they play in our lives. I play a character named “Eight”, who represents hope.

The filming process has been so much fun — but also a lot of work. On Wednesday, we spent hours blocking the entire film (for those who don’t know, blocking is the process of positioning actors on stage or on set and mapping out their movements).

It was a long day, but I learned so much about expressing emotion through subtle gestures and tone. Normally, I play more goofy or lighthearted roles, but this one is deeply emotional and serious — definitely a challenge, but a rewarding one.

Other members also got to learn about directing and camera work, so there was always something happening on set. It was a bit chaotic at times, but in the best way possible. Everything came together beautifully in the end.

🎭 You can catch the finished film at the Spring Film Festival! For updates, keep an eye on UnReel Media’s Instagram.



💡 Final Thoughts

Having a creative outlet in college has been so refreshing. Taking breaks from academics is vital — burnout is real, and creative activities can make a huge difference.

I highly recommend that freshmen (and current students, too!) find a club or activity they love. Being involved helps you make friends, connect with upperclassmen who can offer great advice, and even open doors for internship opportunities. Plus, employers love seeing a well-rounded résumé — so joining an arts or media club definitely doesn’t hurt.


Until next time,
Olivia Strickland 🎥✨

Caffeine Time: Best Local Coffee Spots

As a college student, coffee isn’t just a drink—it’s my survival tool. Whether it’s powering through early morning lectures, fueling late-night study sessions (which I probably have too many of), or just giving me an excuse to take a much-needed break, coffee has become a crucial part of my daily routine. Luckily, there are some amazing local spots that not only keep me caffeinated but also offer a cozy atmosphere to unwind or get work done. Here are a few of my favorites in town.

Foxtail coffee has several locations surrounding campus so no matter where you live there is one close by. The closest one to campus is located in OneDaytona by the Speedway. This coffee shop always gives such cozy vibes and a vibrant charm. They offer a variety of brews, a full espresso bar, and various seasonal favorites. Even though it may not feel like it in Florida the fall season has begun and so have the flavors. Foxtail has a delicious Maple Pancake Latte that taste like a warm pancake with syrup.

I personally enjoy having a treat with my coffee and Foxtail has some great options. My go to options are either the ham and swiss on a sub roll or the double chocolate muffin. They have so many incredible options that there is something for everyone.

Here’s the link to their website: https://www.foxtailcoffee.com/locations/foxtail-coffee-one-daytona

Coffee Therapy

Located in South Daytona, Coffee Therapy offers so many delicious beverage options. One of my favorite things about them is that they offer sugar free options. They offer a wide variety of seasonal drinks to encompass all the autumn flavors. My current seasonal favorites are:

  • Witches Brew: Butterscotch and Pumpkin Spice
  • Sugar Free Chocolate Macadamia Nut
  • Shake it Offee: brown sugar shaken espresso with oat milk

All of their drinks can be made iced or hot. Living in Florida I mostly go with the iced option. However as soon as it gets cool I’ll start getting my drinks hot.

They have a lot of comfy seating options which is perfect for study dates or hanging out with friends. They don’t have a website but you can check their Facebook page for any menu and seasonal updates.

If you’re searching for a coffee shop that radiates good vibes and creativity, Aura Coffee in Holly Hill is a must-visit. It’s more than just a place to grab caffeine — it’s an experience built around connection, positivity, and handcrafted flavor.

Their menu has everything from your favorite classics like cold brew, lattes, and americanos to some truly unique signature drinks. A few standouts include the Bloom (espresso with rose and lavender) and Honey Bear (espresso with honey, cinnamon, and macadamia). Each one has its own personality — and they’re all made with organic ingredients.

Aura’s mission goes beyond coffee; it’s about spreading positive energy and love through every cup. The cozy space and ocean-inspired design make it the perfect spot to slow down, recharge, or catch up with friends.

You can find Aura Coffee at 1122 Riverside Drive in Holly Hill, open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM — and trust me, it’s worth the stop.

Here is a link to their website: https://auracoffee.co/

Copperline Coffee

If you’re looking for a cozy spot to grab your morning coffee or spend a slow weekend brunch, Copperline Coffee + Café is definitely worth the stop. Their menu goes way beyond your typical coffee shop fare — blending rich espresso drinks, creative flavors, and some seriously good comfort food.

They serve up everything from cold brews and pour-overs to signature lattes like the Honeysuckle (a mix of vanilla, honey, and cinnamon) and the Ube Latte, which is as beautiful as it is delicious. If you’re in the mood for something indulgent, their coffee flights let you sample a few different brews — perfect for coffee lovers who can’t pick just one.

But what really sets Copperline apart is their food menu. Think flaky biscuits loaded with fried chicken, red pepper jelly, and pimento cheese, or sweet treats like triple chocolate cake and vegan carrot cake. It’s the kind of place where you can grab breakfast, stay for lunch, and still find an excuse to take dessert to go. I say that from personal experience and long study sessions with friends.

They’ve got locations in Port Orange and South Daytona, so wherever you are, you’re not far from good coffee and good vibes. Their location close to Halifax has a wonderful outdoor and indoor seating area so not matter what the weather there will be a great place to get work done.

Some of my personal favorites: the Honeysuckle Latte and the Chicken Biscuit with Pimento Cheese. Trust me — you’ll want to go back for seconds.

Here is a link to their website: https://www.copperlinecoffee.com/

Beach Bros Coffee

If you’re ever in the mood for local specialty coffee, Beach Bros is the place to go. Their menu features a wide variety of options including cold brew, hot, iced, and blended drinks — even a few extra-caffeinated choices for those who need an extra boost. By combining the laid-back vibes of the sea with their coffee creations, they’ve crafted unique flavors like coconut, pineapple, mango, and many more.

Beach Bros has locations in both Port Orange and Daytona Beach, so no matter which side of town you’re on, there’s one nearby.

Some of my personal recommendations are The Seaside Bonfire and Biscoff — both are absolutely worth a try!

Here’s the link to their website: https://beachbroscoffee.com/


I hope that this list has helped you find your new study spot, caffeine fix or even just a great place to catch up with friends.

Don’t forget to take a step back and relax during the chaos of the semester or busy workday. Take some time this weekend to enjoy time with friends, go to the beach, or relax on the couch.

Have a great weekend!

~ Grace H. 🙂

Off Campus Adventures: My Favorite Spots Near Daytona

Hey y’all!
This week has been super long with a lot of testing, but now that I’m finally done, I thought I’d focus on something a little more fun — exploring some cool spots in the Daytona area! 🌴
These are great places to visit with friends or a significant other. They do require a bit of driving, so if you don’t have a car on campus, maybe see if you can carpool with someone. I’ve been to both places and absolutely loved them — they’re a great way to spend some time off campus and unwind.

1. Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse & Museum
📍 Ponce Inlet, FL
This lighthouse is such a fun excursion — packed with history and incredible views. It’s actually the tallest lighthouse in Florida, with a 209-step climb to the top (your legs will feel it, trust me 😅). But the view? So worth it. You can even spot ERAU and the Daytona International Speedway in the distance!

In addition to the lighthouse, there are several historic buildings you can walk through to learn more about Ponce Inlet’s past. Just across from the lighthouse is the Pacetti Hotel, which is also part of the museum. It has a rich history in Southern hospitality and early sports tourism.

There’s even a fun scavenger hunt you can do while you’re there (sadly no prize, but it’s still worth doing).

🎟️ Admission:

$10 for students
Year-long student pass also available for $10


2. Museum of Arts & Sciences (MOAS)
📍 Daytona Beach, FL
This museum is such a cool place to visit with friends. They always have new and exciting exhibits!

🦖 Upcoming: On October 11th, the Dinosaur Exhibit is opening — I’m so stoked about it!
🐞 Currently: There’s a bug sculpture exhibit that’s super intricate and beautiful (I’ll include some pictures, but you have to see it in person).

They also have a planetarium with some amazing shows. I haven’t had the chance to go yet, but it’s definitely on my bucket list.

The art wing is more chill and relaxing, featuring Florida-themed paintings and rotating exhibits that really capture the beachy, laid-back vibe. Oh! And don’t miss the train exhibit — it’s seriously cool.

🎟️ Admission:

Free for ERAU students with your Eagle Card
Note: Planetarium shows are not included in the free ticket


Wishing you all an awesome week ahead! Good luck at the Career Fair this Tuesday — go get ’em! 💼✈️
Until next time,
Olivia Strickland

Tate McRae comes to Orlando

We all need a break from the stresses of school from time to time, and what better way to have fun than by going to a concert! One of my favorite artists, Tate McRae, recently came to Orlando and performed at the Kia Center for two nights this month. I was so excited for this concert, having bought my tickets to it last November. My friend from New Jersey even flew down to Florida to see it with me.

My concert outfit!

I have never been to the Kia Center in Orlando before, but it was such an easy process to park in the connected garage and get checked in and ready. I would definitely recommend buying a garage pass before an event because they were sold out on the day of the concert. Once we got to the venue, we were able to walk right through security, over a pedestrian bridge and have our tickets scanned.

Our view of the main stage from our seats!

Next, we bought our concert merch and found our seats. We were up in section 208, but we had a perfect view of the stage. We were able to see Tate performing on the main stage and on her acoustic stage, and had great views of it all. She opened the show with her song “Miss Possessive” and continued the show with some of her biggest hits including “greedy”, “Sports Car”, “you broke me first” and “It’s ok I’m ok”. The crowd was ecstatic throughout the night and Tate did not disappoint at all.

Tate McRae performing on the acoustic stage!

Leaving the show was super easy from the parking garage, as it takes you right out on to I-4 and back to Daytona Beach. Overall, this was such a fun experience and a night that I will never forget (especially since I got almost the whole thing on video). I would definitely go to another concert at the Kia Center in the future, and cannot wait until Tate McRae comes back in the future!

Have you ever been to a concert at the Kia Center or somewhere else in Orlando? Let me know in the comments below.

5 Things I Wish I Knew Before College

Hey guys, I’m back! 🌸


This week I thought I’d talk about some of the misconceptions I had about college before I got here. I remember being so excited to start my university adventures in the summer of 2024 and thinking I was so prepared. Sure, I had everything packed and ready to go, but I was still unprepared for all the experiences I was about to have.


After making it through my first year here at Riddle, I wanted to share a few things I’ve learned that I wish I had known beforehand.


1. How to Actually Study
In high school, I never really struggled with tests. So, naturally, I thought college exams wouldn’t be much different. Boy, was I wrong.
University exams are tougher — longer, worded differently, and they carry way more weight on your final grade. My first few didn’t go so well. I went from straight A’s in high school to straight C’s in college. That was my wake-up call.
Eventually, I discovered flashcards and tactile learning. Reading textbook chapters alone just wasn’t cutting it for me. In my University 101 class, we learned about different learning styles, and I took a quiz that revealed I learn best through hands-on methods. Rewriting my notes into flashcards seemed like a hassle at first, but it worked — my grades went up, and I walked into exams with way more confidence.
✨ Pro tip: Take one of those learning style quizzes. You’ll thank yourself later.


2. It’s Okay to Fail
I used to think that getting anything less than an A or B was unacceptable. But here’s the truth: sometimes you give your best effort, and it still isn’t enough for the grade you hoped for. And that’s okay.
Older friends warned me with the classic “C’s get degrees” line, and I thought they were crazy. Fast forward a year later, and suddenly I was celebrating 75s on exams.
Here’s what I learned: don’t put unnecessary pressure on yourself to be perfect. Use your professor’s office hours, ask for help when you need it, and remind yourself that nobody has it all figured out. You’ll get through it.


3. The Importance of a Creative Outlet
When I first got here, I noticed I was losing the creativity I once had. I’d been heavily involved in theater and arts throughout high school, and I missed that part of myself.
That’s when I found UnReel Media. This club gave me a space to keep growing as an actress, not only on stage but also on camera. Recently, I even started writing my own short film (stay tuned for updates 👀).
If you can’t find a club that fits your passion, start your own. Chances are, other people are looking for the same thing. Clubs also help you meet upperclassmen who can share advice from their own experiences.


4. You Don’t Have to Have It All Figured Out
When I arrived at Riddle, I planned on being an engineer. Spoiler: that didn’t last long. Switching into Aviation Maintenance Science (AMS) was terrifying because I didn’t know anything at first. But I slowly adjusted, and eventually it started to feel like the right place for me.
Even now, I’ve changed my mind a dozen times about what I want to do with my degree — and that’s normal. Take a deep breath, explore your options, and remember: the world is your oyster.


5. Bonus: AMS Labs Will Humble You 🔧🪚
Let me tell you, labs will test your patience.
In one of my first labs (AMS 117: Tools and Materials), I had to cut aluminum with a hacksaw. I was so nervous. I wasted three pieces of practice metal before I finally managed to cut out my multigage. Thankfully, with guidance from my professor and TA, I got through it.
More recently, a friend and I were tasked with removing the spinner from an aircraft during a 100-hour inspection project. Taking it off? Easy. Getting it back on? A nightmare. After two hours, three professors, and lots of grease, it still wasn’t attached. We walked out covered in dust, shaking our heads — but laughing, too. That’s the true mechanic experience.


Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, college is a great experience. You’ll grow, be challenged, and discover more about yourself than you expected. Just remember to have fun, give it your best, and don’t sweat the small stuff.
Until next time,
Olivia Strickland ✈️

Girls in Aviation Day 2025

Good day everybody!

As the semester kicks into full gear with classes, group projects, and clubs there have been a lot of cool things happening on and around campus. This past weekend I got to participate in an incredible event that helped inspire the next generation of women in aviation. I couldn’t have done it without this very special group of women.

At the Daytona Beach campus, I’m an active member of the ERAU Women in Aviation Chapter. Our group includes young women from all corners of the aviation industry—ranging from pilots and mechanics to experts in aviation safety, human factors, and more. I’ve been involved with Women in Aviation even before enrolling at Embry-Riddle, and it has continued to be a meaningful part of my journey. Just this past weekend, our chapter volunteered at the Girls in Aviation Day event, hosted by the regional Women in Aviation chapter at SHELTAIR.

At the event, several vendors, flight schools, and organizations came together to show young girls and their families all that aviation has to offer. From the moment they arrived and received their goodie bags to the excitement of reaching the flight line and seeing the aircraft up close, it was clear they were experiencing their dreams taking flight.

This year, I worked the photo booth alongside one of the Flexjet captains. She was incredible to talk to and inspired so many girls by sharing her journey and career in aviation. Nearby, a face painting booth helped imaginations soar with creative designs and lots of glitter.

Here is a picture of me with one of my fellow Aerospace and Occupational students on the left and on my right is the ERAU Daytona Beach Chapter President.

Embry-Riddle was proudly represented with one of our own Cessna 172s. In addition, organizations like FLAP, Women in Aviation, the VR Lab, and the MakerSpace hosted engaging activities, giving the girls hands-on experiences and a glimpse into the diverse and exciting world of aviation.

Girls in Aviation Day was more than just an event—it was a reminder of why representation, mentorship, and community matter so much in this industry. Seeing the excitement on the girls’ faces and watching their curiosity grow into passion was incredibly rewarding.

I’m grateful to be part of a group like Women in Aviation that actively works to create opportunities and spark inspiration in future aviators. As I continue my journey at Embry-Riddle, I look forward to more opportunities like this to give back, connect, and help shape the future of aviation—one dream at a time.

Aviation Maintenance and Lessons Learned


Hey y’all! Welcome to my very first blog post.
My name is Olivia, and I’m from Thomasville, Georgia. When I first came to Embry-Riddle in the Fall of 2024, I planned on pursuing engineering because of the school’s strong hands-on program. But after starting my first semester, I quickly realized that engineering just wasn’t for me.

That’s when I discovered the Aviation Maintenance Science program. At the time, I knew absolutely nothing about planes (and honestly wasn’t that interested in them). What drew me in was the incredible hands-on labs. From the moment I stepped into my first AMS class, I knew I had found my place. I was surrounded by like-minded people who shared their love for aviation with me, and now I truly understand the hype. More importantly, I’ve gained a family through aviation maintenance—something I’ll always be grateful for.


Tips & Tricks for Aviation Maintenance Students
Leaning into that, I want to share some tips I’ve learned so far. While these are geared toward aviation maintenance, I think some of them apply to college life in general.

1. Don’t Buy Every Textbook
Save your money! The syllabus may list multiple books, but most professors will tell you which ones you actually need. Always ask before dropping hundreds of dollars on materials you might never use.

2. You Don’t have to buy the Snap-On General Kit
As a freshman, you don’t need to buy the full Snap-On kit right away. You can purchase the same tools at a hardware store for less, and you won’t use all of them during your first year anyway.


3. Get a Rolling Toolbox or Bag
This is a game changer. Carrying heavy tools on your shoulders every day is exhausting, especially with how physically demanding the labs are. Rolling storage makes life so much easier. Pro tip: if you’re using the school lockers, be careful with the keypad—they’re easy to mess up.

4. Use Flash Cards
Yes, Quizlet is convenient, but writing things down on index cards helps the information stick. Plus, there’s something satisfying about flipping a card over and getting the answer right. With so much memorization in the general courses, flash cards are a lifesaver.

5. Prep for Comp Exams the Smart Way
Invest in ASA Prepware—it’ll help you get through the curveball questions the FAA likes to throw in. Also, don’t take your general comp exam until after your first semester of Airframe. A surprising amount of the content overlaps.

6. Prioritize Sleep & Self-Care
The seven-point grading scale and demanding labs are no joke. As someone living with POTS (a chronic illness), I know firsthand how draining it can be. Sleep, hydration, and proper nutrition make a huge difference. And don’t forget to enjoy the journey—it goes by fast!

Final Thoughts
I hope these tips help other aviation maintenance students—or really anyone navigating college. This program is challenging but so rewarding, and I’m grateful every day that I found my place here.
Until next time! ✈️
— Olivia

Fly-In Adventures: St.Petersburg, FL

This past weekend, I got to do something unforgettable to celebrate my 2-year anniversary — and it was nothing short of magical. If you couldn’t tell by the title… we took to the skies and flew to St. Pete!

I was a little nervous at first during the preflight as this was going to be my first time in a general aviation aircraft and I usually get motion sick on normal commercial airliners. Thankfully I was prepared with stuff just in case, and got very lucky that I felt perfect the entire flight.

We left Deland promptly that morning and flew two hours southwest down to St. Petersburg, FL. There were many beautiful clouds and sights along the way. I never realized how many bodies of water there were in Florida till we started flying over them.

We finally made it to Albert Whittled Airport in St. Petersburg, Florida, and were ready for something to eat. This airport is really special as it has a secret hidden gem. At the corner of the airport and at the end of one of the runways is a place called The Hangar Restaurant and Flight Lounge. It is an aviation themed restaurant with views of the airport and gorgeous surrounding water. Once we got parked and filled up the airplane we headed inside for a delicious meal.

Since we got there so early I decided to get breakfast and man was it delicious. They have so many options it was hard to pick. If you get there around lunch time or dinner they had some amazing options on the menu that I can’t wait to go back and try.

While we were there I noticed a lot of fancy and very expensive speedboats heading down towards the docks. At first I thought that it was probably just a show. However 5 minutes of research made me realize that it was actually the Monster Energy St. Pete Powerboat P1 Grand Prix. Let me just say, some of those boats that were coming through were so big they were being towed in on 18-wheelers.

They weren’t racing when we tookoff to head home but you could see everyone getting ready and the helicopters getting set to takeoff and record the race from above. It was a really cool experience.

If you ever have the time to take a trip down to St. Petersburg, whether flying or driving, I highly recommend you give this place a visit.

Here is a link to their website if you’re interested: https://thehangarstpete.com/

Day in the Life at Riddle

With the semester in full swing, I wanted to take you all along for a day in my life as a student at Embry-Riddle. For those of you who don’t know me, I am a junior Communication major on the Broadcast Meteorology Track with a minor in Emergency Management. Outside of classes, I currently serve as the Managing Editor of the Avion, our school’s magazine and news source, and the Secretary of the American Meteorological Society chapter on campus. I also work in the weather lab and with the Virtual Communication Lab.

Tuesdays are my busy day on campus, where I have 4/5 of my classes this semester, an Avion meeting, and a shift in the weather lab.

8:00 AM – I arrived at campus at this time, parked in my garage spot, and quickly walked to COAS to start my day.

8:15 AM – I have three classes back to back starting at this time: Fundamentals of Emergency Management, Emergency Management Strategy/Policy, and Editing & Multimedia Production. In my first two classes, we discuss the different hazards and risks that disasters and emergencies can bring into our communities. In my third class, we have been discussing the fundamentals of copy editing and practicing these skills every class.

12:30 – For the next hour and a half, I have my lunch break of the day. On this particular day, I got Qdoba through the new GrubHub ordering system on campus. In this break, I also helped break down the table for The Avion at the RSO fair.

2:15 – At this time, I have my fourth and last class of the day: Crisis Communication. In this class, we have been discussing the PR fallout that crises can cause, and how to properly manage it. This class counts for both my major and my minor, and will be the last course I need to finish for my minor.

3:30 – Next up in my day is a quick shift in the weather lab. The weather lab is a tutor lab located in the College of Aviation where we provide assistance to students in the introductory weather classes. Besides being a great place to get weather help, it is also a quiet place to do your homework with great views for cloud watching.

5:00 – Today was the first Student Government Association (SGA) General Session of the semester. General Sessions are monthly meetings where the entire SGA convenes to hear updates from each branch and division, and vote on any bills that may pass. The Avion is a division of the SGA, and this is just one of the many ways that we contribute to the SGA and helping to improve the student experience on campus.

7:00 – My last meeting of the day was our weekly Avion meeting, which takes place in the Student Union Chamber. In our meetings, we provide updates on our operations over the week, provide coverage events for our members to get involved, and hold workshops. On this particular night, we did a photo training workshop, teaching all our members how to use our cameras.

9:00 – Finally, my day came to an end on campus. On this night it was down pouring, so my friends and I ran over to the parking garage with our umbrellas and got in our cars to head home.

While not every day is this busy, I try to make the most of my time on campus. I love being involved in so many activities and getting to learn more in all my classes. I hope this gave you a glimpse into one of the busiest days of the semester I will probably have. I will be sure to write more of these this semester! 🙂