By Vanessa Christianson, EAA 1278277
My name is Vanessa Quinn Christianson, EAA 1278277, and I am currently a sophomore in high school. I was diagnosed with dyslexia when I was in third grade. Dyslexia forces you to modify your learning style. I’ve discovered I learn best with hands-on tasks, which makes traditional school more difficult, but I’m proving it’s not impossible. Despite my dyslexia, I’ve learned which study techniques help me absorb information best. I currently have a 3.77 GPA. Along with school, I love playing sports, especially volleyball and golf.
In addition to school, studying for my pilot certificate, friends, volleyball, skiing, and golf, I also have three jobs. I work at the Salida Inn and Hostel as a front desk clerk, The Boathouse Restaurant as a hostess, and a T-shirt shop called Vibes. I have always enjoyed being busy and working hard, especially in customer service where I can meet interesting people.
In 2017, my mom met my step-dad, Barry Cole. Barry, who is a private pilot, was a true light unto an amazing path for my future. I was able to fly on a few EAA flights before I met Barry, but he was the one that got me into aviation. Barry encouraged me and told me I had a talent for flying. I have met a lot of other interesting people in the aviation industry that have encouraged me and many of them have become true inspirations and role models to me.
In the summer of 2021, I went to Oshkosh, Wisconsin, and attended the GirlVenture Camp at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, where I received the Heather McRoberts Flight Training Scholarship. The scholarship helped my future in aviation take off as it allowed me to start my flight training, and the scholarship is still paying for my flight training today. I have not yet taken my written test, but I plan to take it very soon. By the time I’m 17 and a senior in high school, I plan to have my private pilot certificate. Thank you to EAA for helping me make my dreams come true.