2025 Graduate Spotlight | Tabatha Peña Riquelme
College of Professional and Liberal Studies
I took a leap of faith, driven by curiosity, courage and a desire to grow.
Taking that leap wasn’t easy, but it was worth it.
I grew up in Córdoba, Veracruz, Mexico, always curious about the world and eager to learn. I loved discovering and trying new things, but I wasn’t sure what career path to follow. Still, I knew I wanted to grow.
In my final year of high school, I came across the au pair program. Something about it just felt right. I didn’t have all the answers, but I was ready to challenge myself.
This was my chance.
A New Beginning
I didn’t know exactly what to expect. I was nervous but excited — and ready. That decision changed everything.
My host family quickly felt like home. I enrolled in English classes through the Intensive English for Internationals (IEI) program at the University of Memphis.
It wasn’t easy learning a new language and adjusting to a new culture, but it pushed me in ways I never imagined.
The program didn’t just improve my English — it gave me confidence. It made me feel like I belonged: in the classroom, on campus and in a new chapter of my life.
Falling in Love with Flying
One day, my host dad, who was training to become a commercial pilot, invited me to join him on a flight.
It was a little bumpy, and I felt slightly airsick.
Still, something about the experience stayed with me. Curious and full of questions, I kept asking him everything I could think of until he finally said, “Why don’t you learn?”
No one in my family had ever been a pilot, and aviation had never even crossed my mind. But after that day, I couldn’t stop thinking about it. I had discovered a new passion.
Around the same time, the University of Memphis introduced its Commercial Aviation program. With support from both my family in Mexico and my host family in the U.S., I applied and was thrilled to be accepted.
From that moment forward, everything began to fall into place.
I started working toward my bachelor’s degree in commercial aviation while balancing part-time jobs, flight hours and leadership roles on campus.
Facing the Headwinds
The journey hasn’t been easy. As the first in my family to pursue a college degree in another country and in a different language, I faced many challenges — language barriers, financial strain and the pressure of stepping into a completely unfamiliar field.
Learning aviation-specific English was a major hurdle, and communication in high-pressure situations took patience and practice.
Financially, it was tough — but I worked hard for my goals and leaned on the support of those around me.
There were moments of doubt, especially when I couldn’t explain my path to loved ones who had never imagined a future like this. But I stayed focused, driven by purpose and supported by people who believed in me.
Balancing school, flight training, part-time work and family responsibilities pushed me beyond what I thought I could handle.
But through it all, I learned that growth comes from challenge —and that with a strong support system, anything is possible.
Expanding My World
Eager to engage with a new language and culture, I decided to minor in German, which eventually led me to study abroad in Germany.
That experience came with its own set of challenges, but it pushed me to grow in new ways.
I developed greater adaptability, stronger communication skills and deeper cultural awareness — all of which are essential in aviation, especially in international contexts.
Back at the University of Memphis, I remained deeply involved.
I became president of the International Student Association, organized events and mentored new students.
I also had the chance to return to the Intensive English for Internationals (IEI) program as a translator, while working for International Student Services. Contributing to the program that had such a profound impact on my own journey was incredibly meaningful to me.
Eventually, I became an adjunct professor in the Commercial Aviation Department and took on the role of simulator manager.
These experiences allowed me to combine my passion for teaching and aviation, sharing what I’ve learned while helping students grow and succeed in their own journeys.
Looking Ahead
I’ve now earned my Commercial Pilot License, Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), and Certified Flight Instructor Instrument (CFII) credentials. I currently instruct at Air Venture Flight Center in Olive Branch, Miss., and am pursuing my Multiengine Instructor Certificate (MEI).
Each milestone brings a mix of excitement and responsibility.
Next, I’m planning to pursue a master’s degree in engineering management. Combining advanced leadership and problem-solving skills with my flight experience will allow me to contribute to making aviation safer and more efficient — both in the air and behind the scenes.
None of this would have been possible without the people who supported me along the way —from my family in Veracruz to my mentors and professors in Memphis.
Their belief and guidance have shaped who I am today.
A Message to Others
To any first-generation or international student unsure of what comes next: just start.
You don’t need to have everything figured out. Set a goal, take one step and stay open to learning along the way.
Growth happens outside your comfort zone.
Aviation may be my career, but I’ve also made time for other passions — like triathlons and open-water swimming. Staying active and connected to life outside of school has helped me stay grounded through it all.
My journey at the University of Memphis has transformed me academically, professionally and personally.
I’ve faced uncertainty, overcome challenges and grown into someone I’m proud to be.
And I’m not done yet. With everything I’ve learned and everyone who’s helped me get here, I’m ready for what’s next.
Because now, I know how to take flight — and to keep climbing.
Aviation Pictures Courtesy of DJ Skipps Photography
