John Della Ratta

My heart raced as I stepped into the cockpit of a jet aircraft for the first time. As I settled
into the first officer’s seat, a new world unfolded before me. The cockpit came alive with
colorful displays and the soft hum of electronics that my 12-year-old self could not even begin to understand. Feeling both amazed and overwhelmed, I scanned the multitude of illuminated switches and buttons before me, questioning each one’s purpose and how they all work together to enable an aircraft to fly.
Nobody in my family had prior experience with aviation, yet my passion was clear. I
immersed myself in videos that taught viewers the fundamentals of flight. I worked every
weekend and saved enough money to purchase the necessary components to construct my own custom computer designed for running the latest flight software. I even bought replica flight controls such as a sidestick and throttle to simulate real-life flying in my bedroom.
As a sophomore, I heard about Nassau BOCES and discovered the Aviation Operations
program and immediately knew I had to attend. I met like-minded individuals and expanded my aviation knowledge, learning about topics ranging from aviation weather to aircraft systems and procedures. I gained experience on FAA-certified flight simulators as well as flying real planes through opportunities provided by BOCES. These last two years have solidified my passion for aviation and illuminated a clear path to my future as a commercial pilot.
With support from this scholarship, I plan to attend the professional flight program at
Auburn University where I will earn my Private Pilot’s License and begin my journey to become a commercial pilot. Along the way, I will spread my love for aviation by working as a Certified Flight Instructor, enabling me to help others reach their goals.