[Haywood]

I got my private pilots license before I got my driver's license. Pretty cool telling all my friends when I was 15! Went to college at Florida Tech in Melbourne to become an airline pilot. I got my IFR, multi-engine licenses and was studying to get my ATP. This is where the story ends in woe. I developed seizures in my junior year and couldn't fly anymore. I ended up getting an aviation management degree and went to work for Northwest Airlines in operations. I stayed there 2 years and left the industry. Ironically, I never developed seizures the rest of my life so I do believe everything happens for a reason. I still fly recreational a few times a year. Mostly Piper 152's and 172's. I've let my medical lapse to a 3rd class since I only do it for fun now.

If anyone is thinking about getting their private pilots license, DO IT! It's an incredible feeling to do your first solo and touch and go's.