Up in the air with ASPiRE graduate Georgia Cipriani
By Anthony Langley (B.S.’16/MC)
Georgia Cipriani (B.S.’16/H&S), a flight attendant for American Airlines, spends a lot of time flying between Richmond, Virginia, and Washington, D.C., but her job also sends her to many new and exciting places around the world. She’ll be taking over the VCU Alumni Instagram account next week giving us a glimpse into her travels.
What was your time at VCU like?
I fell in love with VCU from my first visit. There are so many amazing moments that I wish I could go back in time and relive. I loved being an RA, had great professors, loved being a part of my sorority and graduated from the ASPiRE program!
I also had the chance to study abroad in Perugia, Italy. Not only did I learn a lot of Italian, but I had a blast and met so many new people who I still talk to today. Having the opportunity to study abroad got me out of my comfort zone and I honestly still benefit from that experience to this day. When you’re introduced to a new lifestyle, it lets you learn a lot about yourself.
On top of it all, the study abroad office at VCU was so helpful whenever I had any questions; it really gave me peace of mind.
How has VCU tied into your career path?
My aunt is a child psychologist, and she’s always been a major role model and influence in my life. She sparked my interest in studying psychology early on, so when I got to VCU I knew exactly what I wanted to study, and I plan on continuing my education and eventually getting my master’s.
While you don’t need a specific major to become a flight attendant, I think VCU gave me all the right tools I need to excel at it. I believe the airline industry is one of the most diverse industries to work in, not only because we fly all over the world but also because our passengers are from everywhere around the globe.
VCU’s diversity got me accustomed to being surrounded by people from different cultural backgrounds, and now I can’t think about ever working in an environment that doesn’t offer that.
What is the day-to-day like working for an airline?
As a flight attendant, you have to give up all expectations of a “typical day” or routine. You may think you are going to Los Angeles and end up in Tulsa, Oklahoma; there are no promises ever. My bag always has an umbrella, a bathing suit and a jacket because I can never be too sure of where I’m headed, so I wake up every morning ready for anything!
Where has been your favorite travel destination?
Since working for American, I’ve been able to travel all over the U.S. and a ton of countries in Europe. My favorite place has to be Italy because that’s where I was born and where half of my family is from. I also absolutely loved Copenhagen, Denmark, and cannot wait to go back.
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