Most students have felt grounded (that's right, this post will be full of aviation metaphors, so prepare yourself for take-off) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Everyday activities that fueled students have become restricted or disappeared altogether. Even the once high-flyers are experiencing problems with their motivation engines and sending out distress signals during their descent. Their cargo, once comprised of ambitions, excitement, and optimism, now seems overrun with stress, anxiety, and fear of an unknown future. Perhaps most distressing of all is the distinct lack of a unified response from air traffic controllers in finding a runway to act as a safe-harbor during these turbulent times.
Amongst the inclement weather surrounding our students, there is still an opportunity to ascend upwards and re-chart a new trajectory for their education and activities. Enter Max, high school class of 2022, from Colorado. Max submitted a Class of COVID form to us explaining how he has taken time during the pandemic to build upon his interest in drones. During his time at home, Max has continued to develop his interest in drone cinematography and racing, even going so far as to get his Part 107 Certification, turning his hobby into a side-hustle and potential future career.
"At the start of the pandemic I was super excited we were out of school for a while. I quickly began to realize it was not that interesting to sit in my house all day and play video games. My mom suggested I find something to do (academically) during the pandemic. It took me a while to find something to do, but I found out I need a Part 107 license to get paid for my drone cinematography. So after some thought, I decided to start studying. It was one of the hardest tests I've ever taken, I had to study once every other day at least just to keep the concepts in my head. I realized that my brain was being occupied by learning something and how I wasn't bored as much anymore. I ended up getting my Part 107 and use it constantly in my world of drone stuff."
- Max
Do you have a story to share about your time in education during COVID-19? We are looking for high school, college, and graduate school stories from students, parents, and teachers.
Submit your story via our website HERE.
(https://www.virtualcollegecounselors.com/class-of-covid)
With all my support,
Sawyer Earwood
Independent College Counselor
Co-Founder of Virtual College Counselors
