Alex Abbott '17

Alexander Abbott

Class Year

’17

Current home

Columbus, Miss.

Major(s)

Physics

Current Position

Student Pilot for the United States Air Force

When Alexander Abbott graduated from Carthage in 2017 with a degree in physics, he knew that his ambitions didn’t follow the traditional path of most students. Instead of attending graduate school, Mr. Abbott wanted to pursue his dreams of becoming a pilot for the United States Air Force (USAF). 

Now a student pilot for the USAF, Mr. Abbott has been selected by the 115th Fighter Wing, Wisconsin Air National Guard to be an F-16 fighter pilot for the 176th Fighter Squadron in Madison. He is thankful that his professors encouraged him to follow his own path and achieve his dreams. 

“The physics faculty understood that I had no interest in graduate school or post-undergrad internships like most students do, and still encouraged me to apply to something suited toward my interests.”

Alexander Abbott, ’17

What have you enjoyed most about your career?

“[I’ve enjoyed the] high-paced training, high expectations, and the opportunity to fly the most advanced training planes in the world.”

How did Carthage prepare you?

“High expectations from faculty equal the high expectations set by my instructor pilots in the USAF; hands-on learning helped strengthen my study habits for the hands-on environment set at USAF pilot training.”

Tips for current Carthage students?

“Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone when applying for jobs or internships.”


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