Noemi Nunez, Class of '12

Bachelor of Science in Airport Management
Brooklyn, New York

Imagine being raised as an artist, attending an art-focused high school, putting countless hours into artistic projects and then becoming an airport management major in college.

There was no imagining necessary for Noemi Nunez. This was the new reality of her life.

"Art was my thing. My dad was an artist, and I was raised as an artist," she explained. "I realized that life is about options, and I didn't have to stick to art."

Nunez's interest in aviation was inspired by a senior-year high school project that included sculpting an airplane. "I had to research the physical characteristics of airplanes for the project," Nunez recalled. "After my project was completed, I started researching more about aviation, and Vaughn College was in the search results."

Like many Vaughn students, Nunez juggles several responsibilities while continuing to prosper in school and at work. As a full-time student and employee at Kennedy Airport's Terminal 4, Nunez admits her lifestyle isn't easy but has its rewards. "In this field, if you want to get started you have to take opportunities when they are offered," she said. "You'll make certain sacrifices, but it's worth it in the end."

Nunez was offered a full-time position as an operations supervisor at JFK five months into a six-month internship. She was also the recipient of a scholarship established by Vaughn benefactor and former Wings Club member William R. DeCota. "It was such an honor," Nunez said. "It made learning easier because I didn't have to go insane trying to figure out how I would pay for school. I was able to just focus on my education and career."

Looking to the future, Nunez said: "I'd be happy moving into a management position at JFK, LaGuardia or Teterboro Airport. I'd like to have a hand in managing the daily operations of an airport."

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