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Name: Christian Cunningham
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Class standing:
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Senior
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Major(s)/Minor(s):
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Aeronautical Studies
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Anticipated graduation term; ex: Fall 2020
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Fall 2020
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What inspired you to pursue your industry/pursue a career in your field?
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I’ve always had a passion for flying after watching the movie Red Tails in 2012. I was inspired by the story of the Tuskegee Airmen as they paved the path for me to do what I love. I had never before, seen individuals of my same demographic as pilots or in the aviation community.
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What is the best part of your major?
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Being able to fly around the state as well as the country has been enlightening. I’ve been able to fly to Niagara Falls as well as Chicago!
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What do you want to be when you grow up?
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A professional pilot for cargo operations
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How has your time at Kent State thus far influenced your career aspirations?
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I have been able to learn and understand the different avenues of the aviation community. There are many options that I can choose to pursue, from flying for a corporate company to doing aerial photography.
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What has been your favorite course of study when you were at Kent State?
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Aviation Law! I had no prior knowledge of how essential laws and policies were to the aviation community. Learning about different cases and accidents that occurred, made me a better and more knowledgeable pilot. I’m even considering law school in the future.
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What are you most looking forward to seeing in the future of the College of Aeronautics and Engineering?
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I am looking forward to seeing the growth of the Unmanned Aerial Systems program. I own a drone operating license and got a chance to work on an RC helicopter last semester as a research project. When I got to Kent, the program hadn’t existed yet and I’ve gotten to see it develop.
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What is a fun fact about yourself?
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I have a passion for cooking. In my free time I love trying different dishes and testing my abilities in the kitchen.
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What is your biggest accomplishment to date?
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I was featured in a CNN Travel article this semester. The article highlighted a non-profit organization, Fly For The Culture, in which I am fortunate enough to be an intern for.
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What is one piece of advice you have for other current students?
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Don’t let setbacks take you off of your path to achieving your goals. College comes with various challenges and roadblocks, but failure prepares you for success. If you pursue your dreams and put forth maximum effort, nothing can stop you.
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