Testimonials

I want to express my gratitude to the Indiana Aerospace University (IAU) for being a blessing in my life and the lives of many others. The wisdom shared in Proverbs 11:25 holds true: “The one who blesses others is abundantly blessed; those who help others are helped.”

I am genuinely grateful to God Almighty for guiding me to Indiana Aerospace University, where my dreams have become a reality, and I have become a Licensed Professional Teacher. The support and care provided by the university’s Board of Trustees have been invaluable to me and my family.

I sincerely thank the administration, my mentors, and all the teaching and non-teaching staff. Your generosity, encouragement, and wise counsel have significantly shaped me into the best version of myself as both a teacher and an individual.

Being granted the opportunity to become the pioneer student in the Education Department and the First Scholar of the Ricardo Cardinal J. Vidal Scholarship Program has undoubtedly been the most significant turning point in my life. It has been my gateway to a lifetime of achievements and success, a journey I am proud to share with my beloved family.

During a recent visit to the campus, I was overwhelmed by a flood of cherished memories. As I walked through its grounds, I couldn’t help but recall the remarkable moments we had experienced there. One memory that made me smile was when we planted trees and etched our names upon them, leaving an enduring mark of our presence. The campus was a picture of serenity and beauty, enveloped by the School Chapel, allowing us to meditate and immerse ourselves in nature simultaneously.

As I contemplate my journey, my heart swells with gratitude. I am Marjorie Cosido Marca, a graduate of the Bachelor of Secondary Education-Major in Math (Class of 2002), a #ProudAerospacer, and forever be appreciative to my esteemed Alma Mater, Indiana Aerospace University.

Graduating amid COVID-19 has caused a big turn on my career path. The pandemic crashed the aviation industry, and pursuing my passion for becoming an aircraft mechanic was hard.

I was exposed to different sectors to be productive while waiting for restrictions to be lifted. I even got a hospitality job where I had customer service experience. It was this random night at my workplace wherein I was scrolling through my phone and saw their job posting and decided to apply, hoping to get an email invite. Despite my insecurities, I pushed through and showed the best I could present myself. Since being accepted, I promised never to give up until fate told me to stop.

From what happened, I realized that you will only know what will happen once you try. I believe the Almighty God has a plan for you. Keep pushing! And hopefully, soon, more of us will be painting the skies yellow.

When I was a child, I knew I wanted to fly. I’ve always imagined working in the Airline industry-gracing, the airport halls, flying to places, and meeting different people.

After I graduated college, I got my first job as a passenger service agent in international airline companies such as Asiana Airlines and Silkair. Later, I was trained as a load controller for Philippine Airlines and Singapore Airlines. It paved the way for me to deepen my knowledge, hone my skills, and show me the true meaning of customer service. I tried applying to different airlines as a cabin crew but got rejected four times. It was heartbreaking because I prepared and sacrificed a lot, but it did not stop me from trying again. I used the rejections to my advantage since they highlighted what I needed to improve. They motivated me to push the boundaries with my faith in God and trust in His timing. Then the pandemic happened, which took a toll on the aviation industry. It was as if the world stopped at its feet, which almost caused me to believe that my goal to become a cabin crew was out of reach.

Thankfully, the industry could carry on, and the skies cleared again. So, I took every opportunity there was to apply for cabin crew. It was a significant risk, but I’m happy I was accepted. It was not an easy flight, but it was all worth it. To all cabin crew aspirants, take the risk and believe in yourself. Claim your goal as if it is already yours. See things as a learning process, and whenever you feel like giving up, remember why you started.

“We don’t rise to the level of our expectations; we fall to the level of our training.” ― Archilochus.

I grew up a wanderer, eagerly looking for adventure. Growing up, I found myself captivated by the figure of my father, a man whose passion for aviation was palpable. Although he had been unable to pursue his dream of becoming a pilot due to medical reasons, his love for flight endures. Instead of piloting real planes, he turned to remote-controlled airplanes as his gateway to the skies. He spent his weekends flying these nitro-powered RC planes and saw him perform aerobatics with those flying toys. Witnessing these as a young child was an honor and an absolute delight.

From a young age, I was intensely eager to learn about initiative, cultural awareness, leadership, and teamwork. To cultivate these qualities, I actively participated in various camps, which provided enjoyable training experiences and fostered a sense of brotherhood that would endure for a lifetime.

Upon my admission to Indiana Aerospace University, I harbored doubts regarding our ability to secure the necessary financial support for me to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Technology. Given the costs associated with flying, my family couldn’t afford to fund my aviation aspirations. Consequently, I enrolled in a BS in Aircraft Maintenance Technology instead. However, this alternative path continued my enthusiasm. During those years, I dedicated myself to personal growth by engaging in gym workouts, Parkour lessons, and training in MMA at Mactan Combat Sports.

Additionally, I served the Church as a Bass Vocalist of the IAU Male Chorale. Furthermore, I actively participated in the Advance Reserve Officer Training Corps, an experience that substantially shaped my character. During this period, there was a significant focus on honing my leadership skills, introducing tactical knowledge, and warmly embracing me into the esteemed profession of arms. In 2015, our class, “Kampilan,” proudly graduated as the pioneering class.

These formative experiences and diverse pursuits have significantly contributed to the person I am today, instilling a strong sense of leadership, resilience, and a passion for personal and professional growth.

2016 I proudly graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Aircraft Maintenance Technology. Following graduation, I pursued the necessary licensure and applied as a Candidate Soldier in the Philippine Air Force. However, the Limited Physical Examination dealt a devastating blow to my dreams, leading to denial and subsequent return back home. Despite the disappointment, I mustered the strength to return to my hometown and embark on the recovery journey.

Surprisingly, the PAFHRMC (Philippine Air Force Human Resource Management Center) called to inform me that I qualify for a retake exam due to the potential inclusion of the POTC CL-2018 (Philippine Air Force Officer Candidate Course Class 2018). It was an opportunity to redeem myself for not taking the first exam seriously. This unexpected turn of events gave me hope, and I embraced the chance to prove myself. I diligently prepared, took the retake exam, and successfully passed, securing my place in the class.

After undergoing six months of rigorous training at the PAFOCS (Philippine Air Force Officer Candidate School) in AETDC (Air Education, Training, and Doctrine Command), throughout this challenging journey, I found solace in my faith as Christ guided me toward something more significant.

I am currently assigned to the 15th Strike Wing, and I firmly believe there is always more to learn and achieve as an officer and military pilot. I approach my responsibilities humbly, recognizing that continuous growth and development are essential in my chosen profession.

A French Rafale pilot once said, “What makes a pilot is the humility to think everybody else is better than him. There is a Dichotomy where you have to be extremely self-confident to be in charge of an aircraft like that, yet you have to be extremely humble because you know you don’t know everything, and you have to emphasize a beginner mindset at all times.”

My childhood dream of becoming a pilot faced financial hurdles when I learned how expensive it is to be one. Unable to afford pilot training, I pursued a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering, intending to pursue flying later. The turning point came during my 5th year in college, coinciding with the Marawi Siege. Motivated to contribute, I joined the Philippine Air Force, momentarily setting aside my aviation dream. After years of training, fate intervened, and I achieved my childhood dream: this time as a military pilot, seamlessly combining my passion for flying with a sense of duty to serve my country.

The surge of patriotism I felt while watching the Marawi Siege on television became the driving force behind my decision to pursue a career as a military pilot. Witnessing the challenges faced by my fellow countrymen during that critical period sparked a profound sense of duty and commitment to serve our nation.

The most significant milestone in my military career was the day that I graduated from military pilot training. It marked the fulfillment of my childhood dream and paved the way for me to reach another achievement: flying over our own house.

My Aerospace Engineering degree laid the essential groundwork for my current success. The knowledge and values acquired during my five years in college were crucial in navigating the demanding training that brought me to where I am today. I wouldn’t have chosen a different path, as my educational background has been instrumental in my personal and professional growth.
Being a military pilot presents its unique set of challenges. As someone deeply devoted to cherishing moments spent with family, being away for long periods and missing special family occasions pose a genuine struggle. Despite the inherent difficulties, the knowledge that my family takes pride in my achievements instills a profound sense of purpose and resilience within me.

To all Aerospacers, as you embark on this path, remember to stay focused on your goals, never lose sight of your dreams, and continue to push yourself beyond your limits. Strive to be a role model for aspiring aviators and uphold the values of integrity, discipline, and respect in everything you do.

I entered the field of aviation purely out of curiosity. But that curiosity turned into the adventure that I’m having today. I had my OJT period at the CAAP head office. I was assigned to the Air Traffic Service and was inspired by our country’s air traffic controllers. I was curious about what they do and was amazed at how they work. It’s a unique job essential in the aviation industry, yet it remains almost unheard of. When I was presented with an opportunity to become one, I grabbed it. I was immediately up for the challenge and decided to pursue it. I’m still figuring stuff out as I go. However, I’m actively pursuing this career because I still believe in the wonders of aviation and how it brings people closer together, wherever they may be, across the globe.

Aviation poses a significant challenge for professionals in this field. The heavy burden of keeping the skies safe, among other professions, falls upon us. The work itself may be challenging, but it’s what keeps my adrenaline pumping—in a good way. I’m also excited about becoming one of the few aerospacers to pursue a career as an air traffic controller. The fact that I’m in a profession that excites me every single day motivates me to keep going.

I am most proud of graduating from the Comprehensive Air Traffic Service training. It challenged me and pushed me to my limits. It helped me shape my mental capacity, emotional endurance, and intellectual ability. Finishing the course gave me a sense of pride and purpose as an Air Traffic Controller.

Indiana Aerospace University played an important role in helping me gain familiarity with the aviation industry. This knowledge was advantageous during my training and continues to benefit me in my current job. During my studies in Aerospace Engineering, I had the opportunity to develop my problem-solving and critical analysis skills, which are essential in this field.

My professor once said that you are probably on the wrong path if the path is quiet and smooth. All of us face challenges every day, and no one is exempted. I ran into my fair share of obstacles before I achieved what I have today. Our rigorous training included periodic evaluations, which were very difficult and nerve-wracking. Aside from that, we also had volumes of manuals to study and countless sleepless nights. I overcame them by staying disciplined, being productive, focusing on the most important things, and finally, taming my emotions to handle things accordingly.

For my fellow Aerospacers, if you want to become one of the Aviation Frontiers and seek a challenging career, this is the right job for you. It may be hard at first, but you will learn how to become resilient later. This job comes with great responsibility, but it will also forge your solid commitment to your work and exercise the importance of trust and teamwork. Just believe in yourself even if no one else does. Stay curious, remain interested, and broaden your horizons. You can do anything if you put your mind to it.

The Wind may get strong along the way, so maintain your grit and curiosity as you head for your dreams. Only then will you be Cleared for take-off!

Your dreams await you – all you have to do is act on them.