prepared for the future, feeling at home

Joseph Beard is a junior aviation management major from Vicksburg, Mississippi.

I am president of Campus Activities Board, junior class president of Student Government Association, department head of Campus Projects and Beautification, vice president of Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity, director of Greek Week, and I'm treasurer of Alpha Eta Rho Aviation Fraternity. I'm also involved in PREP Staff 2008, Eta Mu Sigma, Presidential Lyceum Series Committee, Alpha Lambda Delta, Greek Week Director, American Association of Airport Executives, Pike Loyal Order and Sabre and Key Honor Society.

I plan to attend Law School at the University of Arkansas or the University of Mississippi. I’d like to become a politician or manage governmental affairs, whether it’s for a city, a county, or the nation. I am majoring in aviation management because I am fascinated with airports and the way they operate to provide a large part of our trade and transportation. I think that trade and transportation make this world go around, and I would like to be involved in it. I would also like to be involved in my community by helping people be the best they can be.

My favorite spot on campus is the Student Union Building because it’s where I do all of my work. I plan many functions in the Student Center, and I enjoy socializing and eating with friends in the food court. I visit the SUB so that I can see everyone I have not seen lately and also relax and enjoy the school day without worrying about tests or homework.

Many of my professors have taught me very important lessons that I will always use in life. One such professor is Jeff Taylor, Assistant Professor of Aviation. He has always wanted me to succeed in the Aviation Department and succeed on campus. He has taught me that I can do anything that I put my mind to. He has also taught me to stay committed to my schoolwork.

My favorite memories of ULM are definitely the football games. I love tailgating with my fraternity brothers and enjoying a ULM Football Game. We have a great team that is getting better every year, and I enjoy supporting them. My favorite memory is welcoming the Warhawks back to ULM after they beat Alabama. I was at a formal with my girlfriend when we got the call, so my fraternity brothers and I all rushed back to congratulate the football team on their big win. I will never forget that great day.

ULM has given me the experience to become a great leader on this campus, as well as a scholar. ULM has prepared me for the world that is in front of me by making me feel at home. ULM faculty and staff have helped me grow. I plan to take what I have learned at ULM and make a difference in the world.