Marble Pedestal: Flying

The powerful roars of the airplane engines, the thrill of takeoff, the sudden acceleration, and wheels leaving the ground create an unforgettable feeling. Flying has become an incredibly common way of travelling, allowing millions of people to fly effortlessly to places that they haven’t been before. With an experience unique to so many people and the opportunities it brings, air travel’s excitement is bound to keep climbing. 

One of the best parts of flying is that the journey itself becomes part of the adventure. From thousands of feet in the air, passengers can watch incredible sunrises, sunsets, mountain ranges, and landscapes that few people ever get to see from that perspective. Research by Stoenescu Cristina suggests that airlines and airports have become part of the overall tourism experience, adding to passengers’ enjoyment rather than simply getting them from one place to another.

Flying also represents the start of something exciting, like a vacation, a break from everyday routines, or the chance to experience new places and cultures. As the World Economic Forum explains, travel helps people discover different perspectives and create memories that last long after the trip ends. When you think about it that way, the excitement and opportunities that come with flying are often worth more than the fear of stepping onto the plane. People spend money on travel every year to enjoy trips, holidays, beautiful views, and unique experiences. 

For students at the University of Alberta, flying can open doors to many new opportunities such as study abroad programs, academic conferences, internships, and opportunities to explore beyond the campus. It is the beginning of new experiences, personal growth, and lifelong memories. Whether it is spending a semester studying in another country, attending a conference to connect with experts in a chosen field, or completing an internship in a different city, air travel allows students to expand both their academic and personal horizons. It exposes them to diverse cultures, perspectives, and ways of thinking that cannot be fully experienced in a classroom. Students should see it as a gateway to adventure, learning, and opportunities that can shape their future careers and enrich their lives.

The ability to travel and connect with different cultures is more valuable than ever. U of A students should embrace opportunities to fly for education, personal development, and adventure. After all, some of life’s most rewarding experiences bring the moment wheels leave the ground.