Oftentimes, pursuing tertiary education in a foreign country can be a difficult, lonesome experience. St. Vincent and the Grenadines national, Tavio Simmons can attest to this, as he is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Aircraft Maintenance and Management at The University of Trinidad and Tobago’s (UTT) Aviation Campus at Camden.

Hailing from Bequia, one of the small islands of the Grenadines, Tavio openly shares his experience of settling into a new environment as he recalls feeling homesick. In transitioning to his new surroundings, he credits his support system, mainly his parents and family, who have sacrificed tremendously and continue to motivate him to achieve his goal. Currently in his second year, Tavio is well-adjusted and feels a sense of belonging within the University Community, referring to his UTT Instructors and Administrative Staff as family.

Tavio’s interest to pursue Aviation Studies was cemented after being employed at the Argyle International Airport in St. Vincent and being exposed to the fundamentals of aviation. Deciding to pursue this interest further, his research led him to UTT, whose dynamic, affordable programme bridges engineering and business. Tavio describes the programme’s content as stimulating and engaging, offering a wealth of information, as it provides an excellent balance of theoretical and practical knowledge.

With a dedicated and focused mindset, Tavio is intent on successfully completing his undergraduate degree by 2022, and has his sights set on attaining the Aircraft Maintenance Engineer License (AMEL). Tavio excitedly shares, “I would like to return to my country and work within the aviation sector, specifically maintenance and airport operations, and also ignite an interest in aviation among the youth as I share my passion with them.”