On this blog, you’ve read letters from an AAEC alumni to their former high school self. This month, meet a soon-to-graduate student from the Estrella Mountain campus. Instead of a letter-to-self, we interviewed Christopher Chung about the years he spent at AAEC.
Christopher Chung (who goes by Chris) may have walked before he learned to crawl. He says, “I flew planes before I drove cars.”
And, thanks to AAEC, he also went to college before he ‘went to college.’ As he faces graduation, he’s appreciative that he has made inroads to his higher education. “Take advantage of the free college while you can, because college is expensive,” is the advice Chris gives to incoming students at any campus, during any year.
Realizing that some teachers care very much about their students and help them succeed was one of the most profound experiences Chris had during his high school years. He says that his AAEC teachers played a role in pretty much everything he did, all the way through. “Ms. Wentworth and Mrs. Reyes have been there to help me with the college application process and with my personal goal of achieving an appointment to Service Academies of the United States Military.”
During his three years as a student at AAEC, Chris was in the medical club and served as vice president for the National Honor Society. When he was not on campus, his time was spent in Boy Scouts, Civil Air Patrol, the Experimental Aircraft Association, Tuskegee Airmen, Inc., and he did some exploring with law enforcement officials engaged in solving crimes. Chris has been busy while at AAEC and advises students who have energy similar to his to “expect a lot of a work but it will be worth it because you will have a bigger payoff then most high school graduates.”
Sometimes, losses happen. Chris advises, “You will also make and lose friends but that’s OK. Stay focused on school but have an outlet outside of school where you can relieve stress. Don’t get too wrapped up in school; remember to live life while it’s happening and just have fun with this experience.”
There are many opportunities inside of AAEC where students may keep busy with learning—and enjoying life. Chris reminds them that “there’s a greater endpoint and you’ll make lasting relationships.”
