On June 24, 2014, I passed my Private Pilot check ride, it was one of my most memorable and significant accomplishments and I have the team at Blue Skies Flying Services to thank! At the beginning of my training, I remember trying to decide which Chicago-area school I would train at and worried about “fitting in”. I was an older female, but I simply wanted to learn to fly for the fun of it-no aspirations of working for an airline. I stopped into the flight shop and immediately felt welcomed by the team. Throughout my training, it was that supportive and family atmosphere that kept me going, as well as an instructor (Jim Fellers) who was very knowledgeable and customized his approach to my learning style and pace. I still continue to feel that I am a part of their aviation family, enjoy renting and flying a number of various aircrafts in their well-maintained and reliable fleet, have cheered on the successes of many pilot friends who fly for fun as well as professionally, and I have also been able to share my joy of flight with my family and friends. I highly recommend anyone aspiring to fly, whether for fun or career, to come join the Blue Skies family to accomplish their aviation goals.