Hello, my name is Peyton McIntosh, and I’m a junior at Elizabeth City State University, studying aviation. Ever since I was a kid growing up in Gary, Indiana, I’ve dreamed of becoming a pilot, not just to fly planes, but to make an impact in the aviation industry from both an educational and operational standpoint.

This semester is a critical step in my journey. To stay on track with my program, I need to complete my flight labs, actual flying hours with certified instructors that are essential for earning my pilot’s license. Unfortunately, the cost of both flight labs in a single semester has become overwhelming, and without financial help, I may have to delay my training.

Flying isn’t just a dream for me, it’s my future. I want to inspire others from underrepresented communities to see aviation as an achievable goal and open doors for the next generation of pilots.

My immediate goal is to raise enough to cover my flight lab expenses so I can continue flying this semester without falling behind. Every dollar helps me get one step closer to the cockpit and keeps me on the path toward my career.

If you’re able to contribute, no matter the amount, you’ll be helping me literally and figuratively take flight. And if you can’t donate right now, sharing this campaign with friends, family, or on social media would mean the world to me.

Thank you for believing in me and my dreams. Let’s make this flight possible!

— Peyton McIntosh