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Scholarship Success Stories: Sherisse Pierre
Name: Sherisse Pierre
Chapter: Iota Eta Chapter at Florida Institute of Technology
Scholarship Received: Sunshine State Scholarship
Current Position/Title: First Officer with Caribbean Airlines
"Don't be afraid to ask for help and, in turn, be a willing shoulder to give support."
How did your Foundation scholarship impact you and your career?
The Sunshine State Scholarship helped me through my Master's degree in Aviation Human Factors. During that time I tried my best to be frugal, rented/borrowed textbooks, and worked a part-time job on campus. Any and every scholarship was a blessing that eased the financial burden.
After graduation, I worked at Florida Tech for an academic year teaching in the College of Aeronautics. Currently, I am a First Officer/Pilot with Caribbean Airlines based in Trinidad and Tobago (my home country) flying the ATR 72-600. Our destinations include Barbados, Grenada, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, and of course Trinidad and Tobago.
How has Phi Sigma Sigma impacted you?
Phi Sigma Sigma afforded me leadership and service opportunities that encouraged and helped build my self-confidence; I served as MAL during my time as an active collegian member. I hold one of our core values, lifelong learning, especially dear, and I always try to educate and better myself. Aviation is an industry that evolves with the advancements of technology and equipment, and so it is wise to stay up-to-date. Also, aviation is still a male-dominated industry, however, there are a lot more visible women in the industry today than 10 years ago, and I'm proud to be a woman in aviation.
What advice would you give today's collegians?
Take advantage of all the leadership, personal development, bonding, and sisterhood opportunities and activities available. Enjoy and appreciate being surrounded by supportive people on a similar journey. Don't be afraid to ask for help and, in turn, be a willing shoulder to give support.