Fall 2026 Orientation Issue

O-Issue Fall 2026 Editor-in-Chief

Kaden McVerry

Managing Editor

Grace Hamilton

Business Manager

Belle Holck

Design Editor

Daphne Sierra Aquiningoc

News Editor

Noelle Cover

Photo Editor

Jayden Vaughan

avioneditor@erau.edu

avionmanaging@erau.edu

avionbusiness@erau.edu

avioneditor@erau.edu

avionnews@erau.edu

avionphoto@erau.edu

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Contributors & Page Editors Kaden McVerry Grace Hamilton Noelle Cover Daphne Sierra Aquiningoc

TNG Exec Board WIKD Exec Board

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Front & Back Cover Daphne Sierra Aquiningoc

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Advisor Indira Diaz Associate Director of Student Government

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SGA Executive Board President

Isaac Reyna

Vice President

Nathaniel Wrobel

Treasurer

Anthony Cafiso

Chief Justice

Nicola Kaehler

EIC, The Avion

Kaden McVerry

GM, WIKD 102.5

Ben Redmond

Chairperson, TNG

Bryan Wiebe

sgapres@erau.edu sgavpres@erau.edu sgatres@erau.edu sgachfj@erau.edu avioneditor@erau.edu dbgmwikd@erau.edu dbtngchr@erau.edu

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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!

Hello & Welcome Thank you for opening The Avion! Whether this is your first time on campus or you are continuing your journey at Embry-Riddle, I am excited to welcome you to a new academic year.

My name is Kaden McVerry, and I am honored to serve as this year’s Editor-in-Chief.

I am a rising junior from North Carolina studying Uncrewed Aircraft Systems with a minor in Geographic Information Systems. I began working with The Avion as a broadcast technician before serving as business manager. Now, I have the privilege of leading an incredible team of photographers, designers, reporters and other student staff members.

The Avion is Embry-Riddle’s student-run media organization. Since 1969, we have worked to document campus life and keep students informed about the events, opportunities and people that make our university unique. Inside our issues, you will find campus news, student perspectives, event coverage, photography and stories highlighting the Embry-Riddle community.

Beginning college can be exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. You will meet new people, adjust to a new schedule and face challenges that may be different from anything you have experienced before. My best advice is to give yourself time to adjust. You do not need to have your entire college experience planned during your first week.

Take advantage of the opportunities around you. Attend campus events, introduce yourself to someone new, join a club and explore interests outside of your major.

Some of the most meaningful parts of college come from experiences you never expected to have. Do not be afraid to ask questions or seek help when you need it.

Your professors, academic advisors, resident advisors and fellow students all want to see you succeed.

I also encourage you to connect with The Avion. Pick up our issues, follow our coverage online and consider joining our staff. No previous media experience is required, just an interest in learning, creating and sharing the stories of our community.

On behalf of everyone at The Avion, welcome to Embry-Riddle. I hope your time here is filled with new friendships, meaningful experiences and opportunities to grow. We are excited to share this journey with you.

See you around campus, Kaden McVerry Editor-in-Chief

Letter from SGA President My Fellow Eagles, Welcome to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, the largest aviation and aerospace-focused university in the world.

Today marks the beginning of one of the most transformative chapters of your life. Whether you came here to become a pilot, engineer, business leader, researcher, military officer or to discover a path entirely your own, you are now part of a community united by ambition, innovation and an unwavering pursuit of excellence.

What makes Embry-Riddle extraordinary is not simply the aircraft that fill our skies or the laboratories where groundbreaking research takes place. It is the people you will meet along the way. It is the classmate who becomes a lifelong friend, the professor who challenges you to think beyond what you believed possible and the community that celebrates your successes while helping you through life’s inevitable challenges. Those relationships are what truly define an Eagle.

As you begin your first semester, say yes to the opportunities that challenge you. Attend the event that catches your attention. Join a student organization that inspires you. Introduce yourself to someone from a different background or major. Some of the most meaningful lessons you will learn will not come from a classroom. They will come from the friendships you build, the experiences you embrace and the moments when you choose courage over comfort.

Since 1960, the Student Government Association has existed for one purpose: to serve the students of Embry-Riddle.

Whether advocating for student needs, improving campus life, supporting more than 200 student organizations or creating new opportunities to become involved, our mission has always been rooted in a simple belief. That every student deserves to be heard, valued and empowered to succeed.

This year, our administration is committed to listening first, leading with purpose and leaving this university better than we found it. We believe leadership is measured not by the titles we hold, but by the lives we impact and the example we leave behind. Our responsibility is to build a culture of pride, service and belonging that honors Embry-Riddle’s remarkable history while helping shape its future.

When you look back on your years at Embry-Riddle, I hope you remember more than the classes you took or the degrees you earned. I hope you remember the friendships you built, the challenges you overcame, the moments that changed your perspective and the pride in knowing you contributed to something greater than yourself. For a university is not defined only by the achievements of those who pass through it, but by those who choose to leave it better for the generations that follow.

Welcome to the Eagle family. We are honored to be part of your journey, and we cannot wait to see the impact you will make.

On behalf of the Student Government Association and the entire student body, welcome to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

Blue skies and tailwinds, Isaac Reyna Student Government Association President

YOUR NEXT CHAPTER

STARTS HERE LAND HOME

FAA approved flight simulator on site Elevated student living minutes from campus Fully furnished, modern apartments Individual leasing by bedroom Resort style amenities and social spaces Active student community

SCAN TO APPLY eagle_landing www.elandingapts.com 1479 Shady Place Daytona Beach, FL 32114

N JET CIRRUS VISIO LATOR FLIGHT SIMU AD

College Survival Guide Connect with People It can be frightening to make new friends in a new setting, but connecting with other students here will get you very far in your four years at the campus. One of the ways you can connect with people is by joining extracurricular activities. Embry-Riddle has many to offer, and there is sure to be something for everyone, whether that be through Greek life, building a rocket or astronomy. Those clubs and organizations will be the places where you make lasting memories.

Office Hours

Some classes can be challenging, and at times it can feel like there aren’t people you can go to for help.

Luckily, professors have allotted office hours for students during the day. That time is for students to stop by their office with any questions on the material, thoughts on the class or review wrong test questions.

Your professors want you to succeed, so take the time to get to know them and their teaching styles.

Daytona Area

Get to know the area around you! You’ll be here for four years, after all. The area has amazing places to explore, and there are events going on nearly every month. Sometimes you’ll hear the roaring from the Daytona International Speedway right behind the campus from the races that go on throughout the school year.

Buc-ee’s is close by and it’s a famous pit stop for students.

Daytona Beach is an obvious visit to catch some sun rays with your friends. The Daytona Beach area has a lot to offer, and getting to explore it can make your time here even better.

WORDS: NOELLE COVER | News Editor DESIGN: GRACE HAMILTON | Managing Editor

6 | SURVIVAL GUIDE

Campus Resources Hunt Library Location: 3rd and 4th floor of Student Union The Hunt Library features rows of bookshelves lined with textbooks and books students can use to learn, provide entertainment or study. The Embry-Riddle librarians are ready on deck for whatever help you might need, whether that’s offering affordable choices from an external store, requesting a book to be ordered from other libraries or any other library assistance.

Counseling Center Location: Wellness Center Complex, Building 502 College can be demanding at times and Embry-Riddle’s amazing counselors are ready to help during those challenging times.

The Counseling Center is open to Daytona Beach students from Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can also call and schedule an appointment ahead of time, change or cancel appointments at 386-226-6035. The Counseling Center also provides couples counseling alongside individual counseling.

The Mail Room Location: Student Union Parking Garage The Mail Center is located on the first floor of the parking garage. You will receive an email when your package arrives, just remember to 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 assignment box number when shipping things to campus.

WORDS: NOELLE COVER | News Editor

DESIGN: GRACE HAMILTON | Managing Editor

CAMPUS RESOURCES | 7

Editors Guide to Daytona Beach From local coffee shops to quick weekend escapes, Daytona Beach offers students plenty of places to explore beyond campus. Whether you are looking for food, shopping, beach views, or a short road trip, this editor-picked guide highlights local favorites and nearby destinations worth visiting.

WHERE TO EAT

COFFEE & TEAS

• Caribbean Jack’s Waterfront dining with seafood, shareable plates and views of the Halifax River.

• Copperline Coffee + Cafe Coffee, espresso drinks, teas, baked goods and a study-friendly cafe setting.

• Riptides Raw Bar and Grill Beachside seafood spot with a raw bar, crab, burgers and wings.

• Sweet Marlay’s Coffee Local coffee shop with hot and iced drinks, desserts and pastries.

• 5th Element India Kitchen Indian restaurant near campus with curries, biryani, naan and vegetarian-friendly options.

• Seven Bubble Tea Bubble tea shop with milk teas, fruit teas, toppings and customizable drinks.

• Tia Cori’s Tacos Downtown Daytona Beach taco spot with Mexican plates and quick casual meals.beach.

• Serra Doce Daytona Coffee and tea stop with house-made pastries, desserts and light bites.

SHOPPING

QUICK ESCAPES

• Tanger Outlets Daytona Beach Outdoor outlet center with name-brand stores, deals and casual food options.

• Ponce Inlet Beach access, lighthouse views, and the jetty.

• One Daytona Shopping, dining and entertainment across from the Speedway.

• Ormond Scenic Loop & Trail Coastal views and nature just a short drive away.

• City Thrift Secondhand clothing, home goods, and unique finds.

• Daytona International Speedway Tour the track, see the high banks and visit the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America.

EDITORS GUIDE | 9

HUNT LIBRARY V

isit 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-on meetings. You can borrow and renew books and material at the Borrow Desk, and take advantage of the available computers, printers, and copiers throughout the library.

Questions? Visit huntlibrary.erau.edu/ask and Ask a Librarian!

Follow us on Instagram @erauhuntlibrary for library updates, study tips, and more.

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 material 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.

DAVID MASSEY

Fall Webinars Join us for webinars covering a variety of topics, including AI, data visualization, and effective use of library resources to support your academic success.

All webinars are on Tuesdays at 7PM EST Check the schedule here:

Your one-stop for magazines, newspapers, streaming videos, over 150 research databases, and over 1,000,000 ebooks and so much more!

WORDS:ERAU HUNT LIBRARY DESIGN: GRACE HAMILTON | Managing Editor 10 | HUNT LIBRARY

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.

Women in Aviation Women in Aviation Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU), Daytona Beach Chapter is a small part of the Women in Aviation National 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!

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.

12 | STUDENT ORGS

American Meteorological Society Are you taking WX201? Do you love flying through 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 Campus Groups for more info!

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.

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!

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!

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.

Makerspace Discovery Program Do you like 3D printing? Would you like to gain hands on lab experience? The Makerspace Discovery Program serves to train and certify members in the different depertment operations within the Makerspace, a studentrun lab that provides low-cost manufacturing, scanning, and design services. No matter the major, all students are welcome!

Join us on Campus Groups for more info!

WORDS & PHOTOS: ORGANIZATIONS

DESIGN: DAPHNE SIERRA AQUININGOC / Design Editor

Student Organizations

Makerspace Discovery Program

Sport Compact & Import Car Club

Women in Aviation

Alpha Phi Omega Search & Rescue Technologies

American Meteorological Society STUDENT ORGS | 13

New Student Orientation Team: Welcoming You to Embry-Riddle

W

elcome 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 | Managing Editor

ORIENTATION TEAM 14 | O-TEAM

TNG | 15

STUDENT GOVERNMENT

The Student Government Association represents student interests, supports organizations, and helps improve campus life.

SGA PRESIDENT Isaac Reyna sgapres@erau.edu

The SGA President leads the student government and serves as the primary voice for all students. They set the vision, prioritize initiatives, and advocate for student interests across campus.

PRESIDENT’S CABINET The President’s Cabinet supports the President in leading SGA operations. They focus on communications, projects, student engagement, operations, and campus partnerships to keep SGA running effectively and responsive to student needs.

STUDENT SENATE Vice President: Nathaniel Wrobel sgavpres@erau.edu The Student Senate represents the student body by advocating for student interests across campus. It collects student concerns, brings issues forward for discussion and action, and develops initiatives that improve campus life and the overall student experience.

STUDENT TREASURY Treasurer: Anthony Cafiso sgatres@erau.edu The Student Treasury reviews and approves budgets for RSOs and other student organizations. It manages student fee allocations and the Professional Development Fund, ensures funds are used responsibly, and helps organizations navigate the funding process.

MEET YOUR FULL SGA TEAM ONLINE Find your President’s Cabinet members, college senator, Treasury Board member, and tier representative.

View complete rosters, contact information, and details about each SGA branch on the SGA website. theavion.com/sga

SERVE - LEAD - ADVOCATE - CONNECT

STUDENT COURT Chief Justice: Nicola Kaehler sgachfj@erau.edu The Student Court serves as the judicial branch of the Student Government Association. It works to ensure SGA policies and procedures are applied fairly, reviews matters involving student rights and conduct, and provides students with a formal process for appeals and advocacy.

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.

SHUTTLE SERVICE SGA Services Manager: Audra DiPierro DIPIERRA@erau.edu The SGA Shuttle Service provides free weekday transportation for Embry-Riddle Daytona Beach students between the Student Union and several nearby residential communities. Shuttles operate on scheduled routes, with seating available on a first-come, first-served basis. Students should arrive at least five minutes before departure, carry their Eagle Card, and review the current schedule before traveling, as times may change because of traffic, weather, or vehicle availability. Schedule is subject to change. Please review the most up-to-date information at theavion.com/sgashuttle.

STAY CONNECTED - CAMPUSGROUPS.ERAU.EDU/SGA

Avion Mascots: Welcome to School WORDS & DESIGN: GRACE HAMILTON | Managing Editor ILLUSTRATIONS: DAPHNE SIERRA AQUININGOC | Design Editor

The Avion has brought back its beloved mascots, this time with a fresh twist and a whole lot more personality.

Reimagined for today’s students, our mascot’s will capture the highs, lows, and everything in between that makes campus life unforgettable. From late-night study sessions and flight blocks to spontaneous adventures and student traditions, they’ll be right there alongside you.

These characters aren’t just symbols, their storytellers. Through them, we’re highlighting the shared experiences that connect us as a campus community, all while adding a fun, creative lens to student life. Expect humor, relatability, and a few surprises as they navigate the same moments and challenges you do.

So whether you are a first year and this is your first time on campus, or a senior that knows your way around, come along for the journey. Experience life as an Embry-Riddle student with our mascots and see your own story reflected in theirs.

18 | AVION

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 protected 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.