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Aerosmart Kids

From the desk of Brave Bessie:

Hi Aerosmart Kids!

If you between the ages of 8 to 18 - you will find this site useful and fun. Have you ever thought about how much fun it would be to fly an airplane?

When I earned my pilot's license on June 15, 1921, aviation and aerospace was still very new. Many people thought I would not be able to fly an airplane simply because my skin was brown and I was a woman. Has anyone ever told you that you could not do something? How did you feel? Sometimes, I would be angry. But getting mad is not the answer - I got even! I was determined to show them that I could fly an airplane. I had to save my money. I had to learn French and travel to France to take flying lessons. I did it all of this so that you will know that you can too!

Today there are so many careers in aerospace. Maybe you want to design airplanes or fix them when they break? You could be an air traffic controller, a meteorologist, an aviation lawyer, or an astronaut. You may want to sell airplanes or finance them. Well - here are some helpful tips to creating a successful flight plan to your aerospace career.

Get to know a pilot, aircraft mechanic, air traffic controller or a person that is already doing what you are interested in. Maybe there is someone in the neighborhood, who is taking flying lessons. Mentors are also available through the Ace Academy, Young Eagles Program, CASTT Foundation, and even Bessie Coleman Aerospace Legacy members like Ms. Jacqueline Withers, Mr. Willie Robinson and Nikki the Airline Pilot. Mentors are available in most cities.

Learn as much as you can about flying on the ground. This will help to defray future costs and time. Most museums have aviation exhibits that are on display throughout the year. Aviation software, books, and summer camps are also great tools that should be utilized prior to entering flight school.

Selecting the right school is the single most important decision you will make on your path to becoming aviation professional. Find an accredited and recognized facility that has quality training and is respected in the industry.

If you want to fly, pick a place where there is nice weather year-round and will allow you to complete your pilot training in a timely fashion. Find an experienced flight school instructor, who is not only committed to your success but can give you the best flight training. Speak with students who are training under your potential instructor.

Lastly, make sure you are having fun.

Yours truly, Bessie Coleman