Alexander David Grigorian Review & Testimonial
Most everyone I talk with tells me my story is one of luck. However, luck is when opportunity and preparation meet!
My background in aviation is a very young one, as it starts off with me. I don’t have family or friends in the industry, so all of this seemed like a very unobtainable goal as a kid.
At a young age, I was always so fascinated with aviation and used to love going to airports. I’d watch the people wander around in the terminal, listen to the jets roaring off in the distance, and of course take in that distinct airport odor. All of these things created such an exciting environment for me, one that I wanted to be a part of.
Fast forward to 2018, I was “stuck” working a job that I was unhappy at but felt obligated to do because I was making decent money. I started to see the passion my coworkers had for their job and related it to the same passion I had for aviation. That’s when I knew I wanted to pursue being a pilot. No matter if I was successful or not, I didn’t want to keep saying, “what if.”
I happened to come across an old informational packet that I had requested from ATP Flight School back in 2013 (chock one up for hoarding!), and it started a chain reaction of getting me on track to start at ATP Flight School in Long Beach, California. My first flight/day at ATP LGB was November 26th, 2018- my 28th birthday, which I’ve come to call the beginning of the rest of my life.
Now, after my flight training and flight instructing at ATP LGB to 1500hrs, I find myself in the flight deck of a Boeing 737 for Sun Country Airlines , doing flights for passengers and cargo, as well as charters to places I would’ve never even imagined I’d be flying to. Along the way, I’ve made so many friends, gained mentors, became a mentee, and built long-lasting relationships.
Although the journey was not easy, I am thankful for ATP helping make my childhood dream come true by providing the resources and equipment, along with a tried and true process of getting to the airlines as fast as possible. The speed and structure of ATP has helped me in my transition to the airline world as well because just like everything else in life, the tools are provided, and it is up to you to make the most of it. Although everyone wants you to succeed, ultimately, your own success is in your hands, and how hard you work for your opportunity is up to you.
If my message can help motivate someone who is on the fence, let this be your sign to go for it! Make your own luck!