High flying degree course success
Claire, 23, of Hungerford, Berkshire, achieved a mark of 77 per cent for her dissertation on the subject of ‘hazardous effects of pilot stress’, and graduated from the University in High Wycombe in a ceremony at Wycombe Swan Theatre on Tuesday 6 September.
The ambitious graduate studied at the European Pilot Training Academy in Bournemouth and undertook flight training in Orlando, Florida, during her three-year degree.
She said: “I had always wanted to become a pilot but then had also always wanted to go to university, so it was fantastic to find a degree course which meant I could combine the two.
“The course at Bucks was ideal because it offered the honours degree in Air Transport Management and the necessary flight training which means I will soon also achieve my frozen Air Transport Pilot Licence.”
Bucks New University has a partnership with Cabair Group Ltd, Europe's largest independent group of flying schools and aviation services, based in Borehamwood, Hertfordshire. Thanks to this, Cabair arranged for Claire to build up her flying hours and gain further expert tuition, with stints in Orlando, Florida, during her second and third years. She said she clocked up 140-150 hours of flying time while in the United States.
Claire added: “We had plenty of freedom while studying in Orlando and were able to go flying every day.
“One highlight was flying down to Key West for a couple of hours on the beach and then flying back up to Orlando. It was a stunning experience and something that, whatever I go on to achieve in my career, I will never forget.
“The experience of flying above the clouds, with the sense of freedom and adventure, is exhilarating. The degree has been fantastic, a real blast, and I am now looking forward positively to my future. Ideally I would like to work for an airline but I’m open to any offers.
“My family have also been amazingly supportive throughout my time at university and I could not have achieved what I have without their support.”
