Hannah Carmen

Receiving the 2025 VAW/VRC Merit Scholarship is an incredible honor that holds deep personal and professional meaning for me. As a Division I student-athlete on the women’s swim team at Drexel University, I have learned the value of perseverance, discipline, and teamwork qualities that I carry into my academic and career pursuits. I am currently studying Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering through an accelerated master’s program, with the ultimate goal of working in aeronautical engineering to support and advance U.S. aviation technology. This scholarship not only recognizes the hard work and dedication I have committed to my education and sport, but it also connects me to the proud tradition of service and innovation represented by the naval aviation community. Currently, I am gaining hands-on experience through a cooperative education placement at a manufacturing facility specializing in U.S. Naval helicopters, further inspiring my passion for flight and defense technologies. The financial support and encouragement from VAW/VRC allows me to focus fully on my academic and professional growth, while honoring my family’s ties to the Navy. I am deeply grateful for this investment in my future and motivated to contribute meaningfully to the aeronautical engineering field.