Daniel Joel Harrison '21
Degree(s)/Major(s) General Studies
Current profession/pursuits I am currently at Morgan State University pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. I am also pursuing my Private Pilot's License at Middle River Flight Center
What do you love most about your profession? Being a pilot has been my lifelong dream. I appreciate the sense of freedom that it gives, and I always marvel at mankind's potential to think outside of a box that already has an infinite volume. I want to be an engineer because I want to contribute to the technological developments constantly being implemented in the world.
Who influenced you most during your time at CCBC? My biggest influences at CCBC were Mr. Sidy Tandia in International Student Services, Ms. Sakina Williams in Student Life, and Fadil Isamotu, a fellow student. In their own way, they challenged me to be my best self, and they were always there to offer the best advice whenever I was in doubt. They shared opportunities with me and used every one of our interactions to impart knowledge.
How did your education at CCBC prepare you for what you are doing today? My education at CCBC gave me more of a headstart than I could've asked for. Obtaining my associate degree allowed me to transfer all my credits, and now I only need to take my major-specific classes. My involvement at CCBC also gave me the boost I needed to be successful at my 4-year institution as it gave me the necessary leadership skills, discipline, commitment.
What advice would you give current students or recent grads interested in pursuing a career in your professional field? One of the few things you can get in life and not regret is education. As biased as it may seem, being a pilot might just be the best field that a person can pursue. If you add the joy of flying to the complex yet intriguing nature of engineering, the result is a world of fun and a future where being bored is virtually impossible.
I am currently in my junior year, and I have yet to come by a class that I did not like or find interesting. If this is any indication of what life after university looks like, I can't wait for my future. I've often heard the phrase: "If you do what you love, you'll never work a day in your life." I am happy I was able to pursue an education in the two fields that interest me the most - aviation and engineering. I have a feeling you'll be happy too. Chase your dreams.
