Business Manager avionbusiness@erau.edu Kaden McVerry
Design Editor avioneditor@erau.edu
News Editor avionnews@erau.edu
Photo Editor avionphoto@erau.edu
Grace Hamilton
Samantha Garcia
Brandon Badraoui
Contributors & Page Editors
Andrew Comparetta
Brandon Badraoui
Dominic Popolo
Emilee Imler
Front Cover
Andrew Comparetta @comparettamedia
Advisor
Grace Hamilton Kaden McVerry
Samantha Garcia
Back Cover
Emilee Imler @emileeimlerphoto
Indira Diaz
Associate Director of Student Government
SGA Executive Board
President sgapres@erau.edu
Vice President sgavpres@erau.edu
Treasurer sgatres@erau.edu
Ander Turueno Garcia
Giovanni Zayas
Marcus Lopez
Chief Justice sgachfj@erau.edu Ryan Croasdell
EIC, The Avion avioneditor@erau.edu
GM, WIKD 102.5 dbgmwikd@erau.edu
Chairperson, TNG dbtngchr@erau.edu
Emilee Imler
Nathaniel Wrobel
Sabrina Osick
Want to see more from The Avion or learn more about our services we provide to all students? Scan the QR Code and visit our website!
Letter from the Editor
Dear Class of 2029,
Welcome to Embry-Riddle and welcome to The Avion. My name is Emilee Imler, and I’m honored to serve as this year’s Editor-in-Chief. I’m a senior studying mechanical engineering with a focus in biomedical systems, and I’ve been part of The Avion since my sophomore year.
What began as a simple job helping distribute magazines quickly turned into something much bigger and I’m proud to lead this organization into its next chapter.
The Avion has been a student-run publication since 1969, and our mission has always been to represent and reflect student life at ERAU. Every issue you read is created by students, from writing and photography to design and editing. We cover campus news, highlight university achievements, and share student perspectives. It’s a responsibility we take seriously, and one we’re proud to carry forward.
This orientation issue was created especially for you. Starting college comes with a lot of change, and it’s normal to feel unsure in the beginning. Inside, you’ll find tips, resources, and stories to help you settle in and get to know the campus from a student’s perspective.
Whether you’re flipping through this for the first time or plan to read every word, I hope it gives you a sense of what makes Riddle feel like home.
We’re glad you’re here. Welcome to your next chapter.
Sincerely,
Emilee Imler Editor-in-Chief, The
Avion
MEET YOUR
SGA PRESIDENT
My Fellow Eagles,
Today, we gather in a moment; a moment where your journey at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University begins. To every new Eagle joining us this Fall 2025 semester, I extend a heartfelt welcome. Whether you are stepping into college for the first time, transferring from another university, joining us as an exchange student, or any other background, you have made a decision that will define your future.
This campus, community, and university is a special place. It is a place that calls upon the very best in us, a place where challenges become opportunities and where the pursuit of excellence is not just encouraged but expected. Now a graduate student, I can say with complete conviction that Embry-Riddle has shaped me in ways I never imagined. It has been a journey of discovery, growth, and purpose and a significant life highlight. And I know it will do the same for you.
At the heart of your time here will be your academics. They are the foundation upon which you will build your dreams. Protect them, nurture them, and approach them with the same dedication you would bring to the skies. But let me share something another student mentor told me back in my freshman year: “Engagement is the key to everything you do here at Embry-Riddle.”
Engage with your professors. Engage with your peers. Engage with the clubs and organizatons that make this campus vibrant. Don’t be a stranger to anyone, and don’t hesitate to explore beyond your comfort zone. It is through engagement that you will not only succeed but thrive. As Edmund Odartey (‘04, ‘10), Executive Director of Alumni Engagement and my former boss, once said to me: “Let college go through you, and not you just going through college.” Take that advice to the heart as this changed my entire journey.
Here at the Student Government Association (SGA), we are here for you. My commitment as your SGA
President is simple: to serve you with integrity and dedication Whether it’s through our government branches, service-oriented divisions like The Avion, Touch-N-Go, or WIKD 102.5 FM, we strive to make your experience better in every way. From free shuttles to essential resources, financial support for student organizations, or just a welcoming smile in the Student Leadership Lounge, we are here to ensure your journey is as smooth and fulfilling as possible.
So, don’t be a stranger. Visit us on the second floor of the Mori Hosseini Student Union. Step through those glass doors, meet your SGA officials, and let us know how we can help you. We are thrilled to be a part of your story.
As you begin this new chapter, remember this: You are an Eagle now. We are meant to soar and be resilient to every challenge we face. Welcome to Embry-Riddle. The sky is no longer the limit; it is just the beginning.
Ander Turueno Garcia
President, Student Government Association
HUNT LIBRARY
Visit us on the 3rd and 4th floors of the Student Union! We are here for all your study needs with plenty of individual and group study space, including a Quiet Study Room and 5 reservable study rooms.
In addition to study spaces, we offer a variety of services to support your academic success. Need help finding resources? Use Ask a Librarian to get assistance via chat, email, text, phone, or one-on-one meetings. You can borrow and renew books and materials at the Circulation Desk, and take advantage of our available computers, printers, and copiers throughout the library.
If you’re just getting started with research, our library tutorials and research guides are great tools to learn how to navigate academic sources. Looking for materials we don’t have? Use Interlibrary Loan (ILL) to request them from other libraries. Don’t forget to check out our full list of research databases for scholarly articles and journals.
Reserve a study room online through SchedulER for focused group work or collaboration.
Questions?
Visit huntlibrary.erau.edu and ask a Librarian!
Follow us on Instagram
@erauhuntlibrary for library updates, study tips, and more.
Sept 9 – Introduction to Library Resources and Services
Sept 16 - Brainstorming: Using Library Databases to Develop Your Topic
Sept 23 - EagleSearch Hacks
Sept 30 - Getting Started with RefWorks: Simplify Your Research and Citations
Oct 14 – How to Find Primary Sources
Oct 21 - Critical Thinking with AI: Understanding AI Hallucinations
Oct 28 - Critical Thinking with AI: Pitfalls and Fact
Checking
Nov 4 - Qualitative and Quantitative Data
Nov 18 - Archiving, Publishing and Sharing Your Data
INDUSTRY MAGAZINES AND JOURNALS
- Aviation Week & Space Technology
- Drones World
- Economist
- Flying
- Forbes
- Fortune
- Harvard Business Review
- Popular Mechanics
Access to - New York Times - Wall Street Journal
Davis Massey
STUDENT SENATE
Instagram: @erausenatedb
VICE PRESIDENT: Giovanni Zayas sgavpres@erau.edu
COA SENATORS
Jackson Bates - batesj2@my.erau.edu
Brodie Pecor - pecorb@my.erau.edu
Praneth Shedge - shedgep@my.erau.edu
COAS SENATORS
Katherine Campbell - campbelk@my.erau.edu
Gauri Niwargi - niwargig@my.erau.edu
Dominic Sandell - sandelld@my.erau.edu
COE SENATORS
Dallas Ballentine - balentid@my.erau.edu
Ariana Kreager - kreagera@my.erau.edu
Yug Patel - pately5@my.erau.edu
Join the Senate Discord!
NON-COLLEGE SENATORS
International: Ugo Maximino maximinu@my.erau.edu
Housing: Rui Harrison harrir41@my.erau.edu
Housing: Rithika Nagarajan nagarajr@my.erau.edu
ROTC: Fischer Schluessler schluesf@my.erau.edu
Graduate: Nicholas DeGarmo batesj2@my.erau.edu
Veteran: VACANT
Student Life: VACANT
COB SENATORS
Peyton Stikeleather - stikelep@my.erau.edu VACANT
STUDENT TREASURY
Instagram: @erautreasurydb
TREASURER: Marcus Lopez sgatres@erau.edu
TREASURY BOARD
Suhruth Aluru - alurus1@my.erau.edu
Anthony Cafiso - cafisoa@my.erau.edu
Lauren Falzarano - falzaral@my.erau.edu
Sidney Koon-Koon - koonkoos@my.erau.edu
Alexis Robbins - robbia10@my.erau.edu
Aralyn Wright - wrighta1@my.erau.edu
TIER REPS
Tier 1 - Marcus Lopez
Tiers 2-5 - Lauren F. & Aralyn W.
Tier 6 - Suhruth A. & Sidney K.
Tier 7 - Anthony C. & Alexis R.
Join the Treasury Discord!
STUDENT COURT
CHIEF JUSTICE: Ryan Croasdell
STUDENT COURT SERVICES
Parking Appeals: If you believe you have falsely received a parking ticket, or believe the ticket is unwarranted, you may submit a parking appeal to the Student Court. The Chief Justice will provide an initial verdict. If upon receiving this verdict you believe you have grounds to appeal further, you may present your case in a hearing to the rest of the Court.
Judicial body of the SGA: The Student Court performs any judicial proceeding dictated by the Student Government Association Constitution. These duties can range from chairing the Constitution Review Committee, conducting impeachment hearings, approving amendment proposals, etc.
Student Advocacy Program: The Student Advocacy Program is dedicated to serving the Embry-Riddle community by means of neutral assistance in order to ensure student rights are protected and processes abide by University policies and procedures.
Residence Life Hearings: When a student is cited with violating the Honor Code or HRL policies, the Student Court will send representatives to sit on the hearing and be involved in providing a verdict and sanctions, if needed.
Support SGA Sponsored Events: As a branch of the SGA, the student court will provide support for events conducted by other branches and divisions of the SGA.
SHUTTLE SERVICE
Parking Appeals Pro cess & Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes the rules in the Campus Parking & Traffic Rules and Regulations Handbook?
The university's Parking and Traffic Committee is the governing body which creates the rules all students and faculty must follow. The Student Court has a representative who sits on this committee with university faculty and staff to bring the student perspective to the
Can I appeal my parking ticket?
Yes, if there are circumstances which you believe warrant an appeal, you can find the parking appeal form on the back of the physical ticket you received or on the Student Court page of the SGA website. Please know that you have 10 days from the day you received the ticket to submit an appeal.
Can I submit an appeal for a parking ticket I receive while located in the parking garage?
The Student Court does not process appeals for tickets acquired while in the parking garage. Campus Safety has a process in place for that, which can be found on their website via the Ernie search bar.
What happens after I submit an appeal?
After no more than 10 business days you will receive a response with a verdict given by the Chief Justice of the Student Court. If you have reason to believe that the verdict you received is unwarranted, then you may schedule to appeal the verdict to the entirety of the rest of the Student Court (7 Associate Justices). The decision made by the Associate
Where are the parking and traffic rules?
The Campus Parking & Traffic Rules and Regulations Handbook is located primarily in the parking decal purchasing process. After this process is complete you acknowledge that you have read and understand the rules. If you would like to reference the rules at a later time, you can find them on the Student Court page of the SGA website or the Campus Safety page (found through Ernie).
Location: Student Union Parking Garage
Students have the option to visit Career Services in person on either residential campus or online through Worldwide, where they can review and edit their resume with the input of professionals who are dedicated to ensuring career success after graduation. Students can also connect with staff in person or online to talk through interview scenarios, figure out what to wear and gain even more valuable insight.
CAMPUS RESOURCES MAIL ROOM
The Mail Center at Embry-Riddle’s Daytona Beach campus is located on the first floor of the parking garage. You’ll get an email when a package arrives; just bring your student ID to pick it up. You can also send mail and packages through USPS, FedEx, and UPS. Be sure to use your assigned box number when shipping things to campus.
CAREER SERVICES
Location: Student Union, Room 313
Career Services also hosts two Career Expos per academic year, one in the fall and one in the spring. At each Career Expo, students have access to industry professionals who attend with the intention of recruiting new employees to their organization, and opportunities for students to connect with professionals in their dream roles, potentially interview on the spot and learn more about career and internship opportunities.
CAREER EXPO: October 7th, 2025
CENTER FOR FAITH AND SPIRITUALITY
The Center of Faith and Spirituality aims to provide a safe and accepting environment for students who prefer support centered around their religious beliefs. Students can get involved with religion-based organizations, seek support from those with a similar cultural or religious background and get involved in giving back to the community through various initiatives. The Center for Faith and Spirituality works to foster a respectful interfaith dialogue among those who choose to participate, which enhances cultural awareness and understanding on campus.
DESIGN BY: Andrew Comparetta /Staff Photographer
David Massey
Eagle Images
Eagle Images
New Student Orientation Team: Welcoming You to Embry-Riddle
Welcome home eagles! We are so excited for you to begin your journey here at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. During Orientation Week there are a ton of fun and engaging events that you can attend to get to know your fellow eagles, make friends, and explore your new home. The Orientation Team is here to help make this transition as easy and smooth as possible so if you have any questions please reach out to one of them. If you have enjoyed your orientation experience and would like to be a part of the team that makes it happen you can!
Join the Orientation Team – Be the Welcome They’ll Never Forget!
Are you passionate about helping others feel at home?
Do you remember how it felt to arrive on your first day? Nervous, excited, maybe even a little lost? Now’s your chance to be the friendly face that makes all the difference.
We’re looking for enthusiastic, responsible, and welcoming individuals to join the Orientation Team for the upcoming semester!
What Is the Orientation Team?
The Orientation Team is a group of student leaders dedicated to welcoming new students, helping them transition into campus life, and creating an unforgettable first impression. As an Orientation Leader, you’ll be a guide, a mentor, a hype-person, and most of all, a friendly, supportive presence.
What You’ll Do:
• Lead campus tours and orientation sessions
• Assist with move-in and welcome events
• Answer questions and provide support to new students
• Help build a sense of community from day one
Ready to Make a Difference?
Scan the QR code during your Eagle-to-Eagle session and keep an eye out for when applications open on our Instagram, @erauorientation. Join and help us create a welcoming, inclusive, and fun experience for every new student. Orientation isn’t just an event, it’s a memory that lasts. Be part of that memory.
WORDS & DESIGN: GRACE HAMILTON | Design Editor
GET INVOL
10 STUDENT ORGS TO KNOW
Experimental Rocket Propulsion Lab
In the coming academic year, ERPL will attempt to shatter the collegiate altitude record for liquid-fueled rockets. Project “MOE” will demand the best from our fluids, electronics, flight, and propulsion teams. No experience is required—just curiosity. Join us at the flagpole meeting on 8/24/25 at 11 a.m., or stop by LB-130 to learn more.
Sport Compact and Import Car Club
The Sport Compact and Import Car Club (SCIC) strives to bring students together via a shared love for automobiles. Whether you have a car or not, we invite everyone to come out and participate in our club activities! We meet weekly— Thursday nights at 8:00 PM—in the Sabre lot. Come out and forge friendships!
Professional Asian Pilots Association
The Professional Asian Pilots Association is committed to raising awareness and providing support for individuals of Asian descent across all sectors of aviation. Our chapter specifically focuses on uniting the Asian community at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
American Meteorological Society
Are you taking WX201? Do you love flying through the clouds, tracking hurricane season, or Twisters (2024)? The American Meteorological Society is for you! Here, we explore professional and social opportunities to share our love for weather and the atmosphere! We meet 2-3 times monthly for meetings, socials, and guest speakers. Join us on CampusGroups for more info!
Women In Aviation
Women in Aviation Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU), Daytona Beach Chapter is a small part of the Women in Aviation International community. The chapter is open to both female and male members of the ERAU community including students, faculty, and staff. Contrary to popular belief, the chapter does not only consist of pilots, we openly welcome all majors ranging from business, engineering, maintenance science, and beyond!
VED!
UnReel Media
UnReel Media is a club dedicated to producing short films and fostering creativity. Students collaborate on original projects, from scriptwriting to acting and editing. Unreel Media provides a platform for creative students to experiment, share ideas, and showcase their work. Through hands-on experience and group discussions, members refine their skills and push the limits of storytelling.
Alpha Omnicron Alpha
Alpha Omicron Alpha (AOA) is an aviation honors society that promotes excellence, leadership, professionalism, and safety in aviation. We foster a tight-knit community where professional development and community service is celebrated. Members grow through guest speakers and unique industry trips. Additionally, we host a variety of service events dedicated to giving back to the community while strengthening bonds between members.
Search and Rescue Technologies
Welcome to Embry-Riddle Search and Rescue Technologies! We design, build, and test solutions to advance search and rescue operations. From underwater surveillance to medical kit drone drop training, this club wants to make a difference. Follow us on Instagram @er_sartec to be up to date on all of our latest projects and upcoming meetings.
Alpha Phi Omega
Alpha Phi Omega is a coed service fraternity that combines fun, friendship, and a passion for volunteering. Members build lifelong bonds through brotherhood while making a difference in the community and school. From service projects to social events and leadership opportunities, APO offers a unique blend of meaningful service and unforgettable experiences, creating a strong, supportive, and engaged community.
UAS Technology Club
Unmanned Aircraft Systems Technology’s mission is to bridge the gap between learning the airspace rules and regulations of UAS operations and familiarizing yourself with the equipment used in the workplace. Want to fly a drone or RC plane? Come join us! Follow us on Instagram @uastech_erau to be up to date with our latest information!
HOW TO SURVIVE AND THRIVE AT RIDDLE
WORDS and DESIGN: DOMINIC POPOLO / Managing Editor
We’ve all been there before: that daunted freshman walking the halls of Embry-Riddle, intimidated by all the courses, labs, and flights that our next four, or even more, years have in store. It can be a scary place, but with a few tips and tricks, your time at Riddle will be a breeze!
FIND HELP EARLY
Some courses can become overwhelming quickly, and it can often seem like you can’t do anything to get caught up. You want to seek help before it’s too late, whether it’s a professor’s office hours, tutoring labs, or even a study group of new class friends; these strategies can help you find the help you need early to excel at your coursework.
JOIN EXTRACURRICULARS
With so many extracurricular organizations to offer, Embry-Riddle has something for everyone! Whether you want to build a rocket, perform on stage, get involved with Greek life, or even write an article to be featured in a future issue of this magazine, you can do it all! These activities are where you will meet your closest friends and make memories that will last well after you walk across that stage at graduation.
EXPLORE DAYTONA
Daytona is the “world’s most famous beach” for a reason: because there’s so much to do and see in Daytona and the rest of the Central Florida region. So, spend a Saturday driving around with the windows down, take a trip to the sunny beach, visit the Speedway, and even make a pit stop at Buc-ee’s. Daytona is your home for the next few years, and it will be even better once you get off campus and explore!
The Avion is produced by a volunteer student staff. Student editors make all content, business and editorial decisions. The editorial opinions expressed in The Avion are solely the opinion of the undersigned writer(s), and not those of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, the Student Government Association, The Avion, or the student body. Letters appearing in The Avion are those of the writer, identified at the end of the letter. Opinions expressed within are those of the identified writer. Letters may be submitted to The Avion for publication, provided they are not lewd, obscene or libelous. Letter writers must confine themselves to less than 1200 words. Letters may be edited for brevity and formatted to newspaper guidelines. All letters must be signed. Names may be withheld at the discretion of the Editor-in-Chief. The Avion is an open forum for student expression. The Avion is a division of the Student Government Association. The Avion is a member of the Associated Collegiate Press. The costs of this publication are paid by both the Student Government Association and through advertising fees. The Avion distributes one free copy per person. Additional copies are $0.69. Theft of newspapers is a crime, and is subject to prosecution and Embry-Riddle judicial action. This magazine and its contents are pro tected by United States copyright law. No portion of this publication may be reproduced, in print or electronically, without the expressed written consent of The Avion.
