Senior Bradley Learned, unlike many others who are undecided on their future careers, has a plan. After graduation on June first, Learned knows not only where he is going to college, but also what his career will be, and exactly how he plans to achieve a job within his future professional field. After months of hard work and meeting a long list of requirements, he has finally secured a reliable path to his future career. His goal is a simple one: to fly.

“After I graduate I’m planning on attending the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and then commissioning into the Air Force.” Learned said.

Since the beginning of high school, Learned has wanted to become a fighter pilot. His family has a tradition of being in the Air Force- his grandfather was once a soldier in the Army Air Corp, and his cousin is currently serving within the Air Force. Learned became inspired to carry on this tradition after an encounter with his cousin at an airbase.

“I’ve always loved airplanes,” Learned said. “And then about four years ago my cousin, who is a fighter pilot in the Air Force, got married. When my family went to the wedding we were able to visit the airbase where his fiancée was stationed. It was awe-inspiring, watching all the jets take off over our heads. And it was that day that I decided that I also wanted to become a fighter pilot.”

To achieve his goal of being accepted into the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, Learned had to work hard to meet the requirements of a military academy over the course of several months.

“I am so excited,” senior Thomas Greene said. “Brad is going to a school that he has always wanted to go to.”

Despite the rigorous requirements, Learned managed to meet all of the prerequisites to being considered in a top military academy. He was accepted to the college, after completing every intellectual and physical task given to him to achieve admission.

“By the end I wrote four essays, answered eight short answer questions, received letters of recommendation from five coaches and teachers as well as one from my boss, had an interview with a liaison officer, as well as another interview with a panel of advisors for Ron Paul, my representative,” Learned said. “On top of that, there is the Candidate Fitness Test (CFA) that you have to train for and take.”

After four years training and learning at the Academy, Learned expects to be hired into the Air Force, with all the prestige that having attended the US Merchant Marine Academy gives a fighter pilot.

“It was very satisfying seeing all the hard work that goes into getting accepted into a military academy pay off,” Learned said.