Ella Hickey following her private pilot checkride in January 2022. Students in the four-year aviation program begin flight school in their first semester and will eventually earn a bachelor’s degree in leadership and organizational management and several flight certifications. (Photo courtesy of Aero-Tech Services, Inc.)

EMU Lancaster aviation student Ella Hickey earns Private Pilot rating

by EMU Communications

To read more profiles of student-pilots, visit https://emu.edu/now/news/category/academics/emu-at-lancaster/

Ella Hickey, of Dillsburg, Pa., grew up traveling with her family. When the time came to chose a career path, she knew aviation would support the lifestyle she wanted. 

Hickey is a student in EMU Lancaster’s leadership and organizational management (LOM) bachelor’s degree program with a concentration in aviation. By the completion of the four-year program, graduates have a four-year degree and several flight certifications.

Hickey completed the checkride for her private pilot’s license in early January. She writes more about her experience in the aviation program below.

What was your first solo experience like? 

My first solo experience was so thrilling. The week before, I was nervous but when the day came to do it, that changed and I was so excited. I think it was what I expected but it’s a different feeling from having an instructor with you and it really builds confidence in yourself.

What was it like to pass your private pilot check ride?

Passing my private checkride was such a good feeling and a relief. There was so much preparation leading up to that moment that when I finally passed it was the best feeling. 

Did you do anything special to celebrate the flight?

Honestly after my checkride I went home and took a long nap. My checkride was at seven am and all the studying those last two weeks wore me out. I did go out to dinner with my family after I passed and that was nice.  

Why did you choose EMU for this leg of your education? 

I chose EMU because of the way the program was set up. The guaranteed flight time three times a week and very experienced instructors made it a no brainer. 

What have you most enjoyed about the program so far?

I have most enjoyed flying, I loved doing cross countries and seeing the view from the sky. In classes we enjoy the community we have created between our 12 person class. 

What are your professional goals after graduation?

My professional goals are to be a cargo pilot or airline pilot.