By Vaughn College   |   May 11, 2018

Being a mom is a full-time job, and for most mothers, it’s not their only job. In fact, according to the US Department of Labor, 70 percent of women in the labor force have children that are under 18 years of age. Additionally, 75 percent of these women work full-time.

Although many women need to balance work with motherhood, some working moms are also getting an education to help advance their careers. These women defy the constraints of time. This Mother’s Day, we are celebrating one of our students, who is juggling many responsibilities so that she can build a brighter future for her 4-month-old daughter, Samantha.

Daniela Tabares ’19 is a Vaughn College aeronautical science major who will be celebrating her first Mother’s Day this month. Her daughter Samantha was born last year on Christmas Day and Tabares said she is forever grateful for her special gift.

FINDING HER PATH

Tabares is an inspirational example of how―with a positive mindset and unwavering determination―women can accomplish their goals and realize their dreams. “Being a mom has taught me so much,” Tabares said. “It’s not only rewarding and challenging, but it has opened my eyes and made me appreciate life in a whole new way.”

Growing up in New York, Tabares always had a passion for aviation. When she was a junior in high school, she joined the Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFJROTC) as a cadet. She says the ROTC was her “launch pad” and the experience that influenced her to apply to Vaughn after graduation to pursue her career in aviation.

Her time at Vaughn is opening doors to help advance her career. In addition to her academic studies, Tabares is working toward earning her private pilot’s license. She is also working at John F. Kennedy (JFK) International Airport Terminal 1 in flight operations and is completing an internship at JFK Terminal 4, where she is working ramp control in the control tower.

“I believe it’s important to be well-rounded in the field,” Tabares stated. “My aviation education from Vaughn and my operations experience at JFK will prepare me to take on my first professional position after graduation.”

BALANCING IT ALL

Balancing her education, her job and being a mom is far from easy, but Tabares says she is focused and dedicated to all three.

“My family provides an amazing support system helping to care for Samantha when I’m working or at Vaughn,” said Tabares. “I’ve learned the importance of time management and how to separate my time between my education, work and motherhood. My ultimate motivation is looking into my daughter’s eyes every day. She is the light that guides my way.”

PAVING THE WAY

Looking to the future, Tabares’ dream is to open a flight academy for women and minorities. “Women empower other women,” Tabares said. “As a woman and a minority, I know firsthand what it takes to overcome challenges to pursue my dreams,” she continued. “Women have an important place in the aviation industry and I want to help future women aviators achieve their dreams by removing some of the obstacles that can get in their way.”

Reflecting on her own mother, Tabares said she wouldn’t be the woman she is today without her mom’s love and support. “My mother has taught me everything I know,” said Tabares. “She’s a superwoman. She’s my hero and I hope to be just like her someday.”

For her first Mother’s Day, Tabares is looking forward to a day off, and plans on spending the day at home with her daughter and family.

Are you looking to build a brighter future for yourself and your family? Schedule a visit and find out how a futureproof Vaughn education can get you on the path toward success.