Air Traffic Management, Class of 2025
From Atlanta, Georgia
I will miss the community they have here at the University of Oklahoma. Never again will I be surrounded by so many people who are my age and all striving toward a similar goal. It takes a willingness to step out of your comfort zone in order to get the full experience, but once you take that leap, you realize that it’s worth it.
Curtis Harris, one of the newest graduates in OU's Air Traffic Management program, chose the University of Oklahoma because OU's School of Aviation was named No. 1 as the top aviation school in the nation. But as Curtis continued through his degree, he discovered it wasn't the only reason why he chose the OU Family.
"It was my initial reason, but as I moved through the admissions process, I realized I wasn't just another statistic to OU," Curtis said. "They wanted me, Curtis, as part of the OU Family."
Despite being an out-of-state student from Atlanta, Georgia, Curtis felt at home with OU before he ever stepped foot in a classroom.
"At a prospective student event, I met Dorion Billups, the director of student connection and engagement," Curtis said. "He made me feel welcomed. Throughout my undergraduate degree, he turned into a mentor and someone I could go to for advice about academics and life."
More than that, Curtis also discovered his journey at OU was defined by personal growth, friendships, and community.
"OU was a big step away from home for me," Curtis said. "But that distance allowed me to grow and figure life out on my own. I gained lifelong friends and experienced things I never would've imagined."
Curtis is most proud of his involvement in the Henderson Scholars Program, a scholarship initiative centered on leadership and service.
"The Henderson Scholars Program truly changed my life and college career for the better," Curtis said. "I found mentors and fraternity brothers, and was able to make a lasting impact on the OU campus and in the community."
During his time at OU, Curtis realized that anyone can make a difference, regardless of the size of their role in their community.
"The smallest act from you could radically change someone's life," Curtis said. "No matter who you are or where you are from, there is always something for you to do at OU."
As Curtis walks across the stage this May to join the OU Alumni Family, he leaves with a job secured as an Air Traffic Controller for the Federal Aviation Administration and a legacy of service.
“The OU Family works because students and staff come together to serve each other and the next generation,” Curtis said. “Everyone should know they aren’t too big or too small to make a difference in someone’s life.”
