Did you know that we have future pilot at Stamford High School? Eleventh grader Ilvien “Junior” Midy has wanted to become a pilot ever since he was a kid. His accomplishments and dedication are an inspiration to anyone with dream.

Q: When was the first time you flew a plane? When did you realize it is something you want to do?

A: The first time I flew a plane was on my 12th birthday. [That was when] I found out that being a pilot was perfect for me. I remember it like yesterday. The first time I flew it felt like I found the real Junior Midy in me, as I discovered that flying is my real passion. It felt amazing being at the controls. I was able to take off and do a few turns, then we turned back after flying for half an hour…I didn’t get to land,  though.

Q: How do you feel when you fly?

A: It’s almost hard to explain how I feel when I’m flying. Flying is like an escape from reality. It gets my mind off of a lot of things and it’s pretty much my home away from home.

Q: Where is the farthest you’ve ever flown yourself?

A: The farthest place I’ve flown to when I was in control of the plane was to Philadelphia. I’ve been there twice and it’s one of my favorite places to go.

Q: Have you ever thought about giving up?

A: I never thought about giving up, but there have been times when I’ve gotten frustrated while learning hard things about flying.

Q: Do you ever get discouraged by plane crashes or planes going missing?

A: When a plane goes missing or crashes I don’t get discouraged. I feel sad for all the people who die and the families that lost loved ones.

Q: How do your family members feel about you flying planes?

A: At first my family members didn’t even want me to do this. They were scared and wanted me to do something “safer”.

Q: What is your motivation?

A: My motivation was seeing my mother struggle. I also have many airline and corporate pilots that I’m cool with and the pictures they post about flying motivate me.

Q: What are the next steps you need to take to fulfill your piloting dreams?

A: I’m getting my combined private/instrument rating this summer and then I’ll get the rest of my licenses and ratings. By the age of 22 I should be living my dream flying for the airlines.

Q: Do you think you’ll be a pilot for the rest of your life?

A:  Yes, I don’t see myself doing anything else in my life. I want to be an airline pilot and after I retire I want to do something that involves aviation.