Ready to Take Flight

Dallas, Class of 2022, shares how MCA helped prepare him to pursue his passion.

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From a struggling teenager lacking confidence to a proud high school senior accepted to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Dallas is ready to take flight and pursue his passion in aerospace. 

But without the experience at Maranatha Christian Academy, he may not be the confident leader prepared to take on the world. 

Dallas transferred to Maranatha Christian Academy in his 10th-grade year. Coming from a public school, he has first-hand knowledge of the difference the positive, friendly, and Christ-centered MCA community has had on his growth as a person. When he transferred, he was struggling with his identity and confidence but was pleasantly surprised at how nice and friendly everyone was at MCA. He immediately felt accepted into the student community and was never treated as an outcast—something he did not experience in the public schools he attended.   

In addition to the close and caring community, the Biblical integration of the curriculum expanded his knowledge and understanding of Christianity while developing his Biblical worldview. Bible classes, chapel, and the ability to worship Christ not only brought a deeper understanding of the meaning of scripture and Bible stories but drew him closer to the Lord.    

“MCA has a very strong and close community. Everyone here uplifts each other to be the best version of themselves. It transformed me from someone who struggled with their identity, confidence, and relationship with God to someone who is proud and confident of who they are and is closer to God than ever before.” 

During the past three years at MCA, he discovered his interest in aerospace and engineering through elective classes in STEAM and engineering. This fall, he will be attending Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, FL, where he will pursue a master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering focusing on astronautics.  

He is currently a student council member and is part of the Steering Committee for the 2022 Annual Gala. Through these leadership experiences, he recognizes the importance of empathy, compassion, and Christ-centered interactions when leading and serving others. It’s one way he feels prepared not only for college-level academics but how to live and lead as a believer in Christ as he goes out to make a difference in the world.   

Reflecting on his time at MCA, his favorite experiences include worshiping God during chapel and connecting with his classmates at Prom and the Senior Retreat. He is grateful for all the friendships he has made and is thankful for his time at MCA.   

“I’d like to say thank you to all who invest in MCA – you are making a difference in the lives of the students here. I am forever grateful for the impact MCA has had on my life.”