HECA College Knowledge Major Talks: Aviation

Description

Join us for a Major Talks webinar as we learn from aviation specialist and HECA member Malinda Schantz as she explains key factors to consider when guiding prospective professional flight students. Gain valuable insights from representatives Patrick Smith of the Oklahoma State University and Nick Galli from the Florida Institute of Technology as they highlight the distinctive strengths of their aviation programs and introduce compelling alternative majors. Don't miss this opportunity to broaden your expertise and better support your students' academic journeys!

IEC Perspective: Malinda will discuss how students can prepare to major in professional flight in college and what to look for when researching college flight programs.

Florida Institute of Technology: This presentation will walk participants through the process of becoming a pilot via the college route. Discussions on the academic requirements, skills and the profession in general will be discussed.

Oklahoma State University: This presentation will explore the Aerospace Administration and Operations major at Oklahoma State University. The major offers professional entry into the aviation fields of professional pilot, management, and security.

 Malinda Schantz
 HECA Member, Independent Educational Consultant

Malinda Schantz is an educational consultant based in Raleigh, NC. She holds a MS in Library and Information Science from Simmons University, a BA in musicology from Rutgers University, and a BA in music from Meredith College. She also has an Independent Educational Consultant Certificate from UC-Irvine, attended IECA's Summer Training Institute, and is currently in her 6th year as an IEC. Malinda has always had a passion for aviation and helping aviation students. The name of her company is Runways To College. Her son and husband are both pilots, and she has worked in the airline industry.

 Nick Galli
 Admission Counselor
 Florida Institute of Technology 

Nick Galli is an aviation professional with extensive experience in flight training management and student recruitment. He has worked at Florida Institute of Technology since 2011 and currently serves as an undergraduate admission counselor and liaison for aviation programs. Previously, as Student Services Manager at F.I.T., Nick oversaw flight student training, recruitment, and program coordination. He has a Bachelor's of Science in Airport Management from Baruch College and a Master's in Business Administration and Management from Vaughn College of Aeronautics.

 Patrick Smith
 Manager, Prospective Student Services
 Watson Center for Student and Career Success, Oklahoma State University 

Patrick Smith currently serves as the Manager of Prospective Student Services for the College of Education and Human Sciences (CEHS) at Oklahoma State University. With over 30 years of experience in the field of public education, Patrick has cultivated a diverse career that includes roles as a classroom teacher, as well as a building and district administrator. His extensive background in education has given him a profound understanding of both the academic and administrative aspects of educational systems.

In his current position, Patrick is passionate about fostering connections between Oklahoma State University and prospective students and their families from across the country. He plays a pivotal role in helping students navigate the various pathways available at OSU, guiding them through the wide range of degree options and specialized focus areas offered within the College of Education and Human Sciences. CEHS is home to over thirty bachelor’s degree programs, including the largest concentration of human health majors on campus, as well as diverse fields such as education, design and merchandising, and professional aviation with a pilot certification.

Patrick’s dedication to student success is evident in his commitment to ensuring that every student has the resources and guidance they need to thrive in their academic journey. He brings a wealth of experience, a deep knowledge of educational programs, and a personal passion for connecting individuals to the opportunities that will shape their futures.