Isaac Burden ‘28 is a sophomore studying electrical engineering with a passion for flying and aviation missions. An ambitious student with a busy schedule, Isaac has seen unexpected doors open for him during his time at Geneva. While his own timeline of expectations has shifted, Isaac is confident in the Lord’s plan and ready to see where He leads. 

Isaac’s journey to Geneva started with a simple open door. In association with The American Legion Buckeye Boys State, a leadership program that educates young men on the love for God and country necessary to self-government, Isaac attended a college fair his junior year of high school. He saw the now familiar Pro Christo et Patria motto, and, having taken Latin, the phrase caught his attention. 

After talking with the College representatives, Isaac felt sure that Geneva was the place for him. He didn’t even apply anywhere else. “Everything lined up and I didn’t have to force the door open. It kind of just opened, so I knew that was a really good indication of where the Lord was calling me.” 

Isaac originally thought he would major in aviation missions but decided against this. He had enjoyed working as a materials test engineering intern at Electrolock in high school, helping to make materials for thermal and electrical insulation and troubleshooting motors, so he decided to major in electrical engineering instead. With the college credits he already brought to Geneva, Isaac planned on finishing the degree in three years and then obtaining his private pilot’s license the following year when he could afford it. 

But the Lord brought a couple of new twists Isaac’s way. Isaac was recently given an opportunity to help an older man replace four of the cylinders on his aircraft engine. At the end of the process, he offered Isaac the ability to use his plane for flight training, saving Isaac about $10-15,000 total over the course of his training. At the same time, Isaac found a flight instructor with an opening for a new student. 

“I knew this was my next step. I just didn’t expect it so soon,” he says. 

Isaac took his first solo flight on October 17, 2025. Altogether, he has about forty flight hours and is preparing for his check ride in January 2026, which includes a four-to-six-hour exam, a two-hour flight, and at the end of it all — a private pilot’s license. 

Isaac’s flight training was also made possible through a partial scholarship from his local Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) Chapter 5 at Geauga County Airport in Middlefield, OH. Through the EAA’s Young Eagles program, Isaac was taken on a flight with a volunteer pilot when he was nine years old. 

“We flew right over our own house. I remember thinking that was the coolest thing I’ve ever done.” After that, Isaac attended all the EAA chapter meetings and eventually joined the Civil Air Patrol. 

Isaac now has an opportunity to work with the United States Air Force in a new capacity. Last May, he joined the Air National Guard after meeting members of the 171st Air Refueling Wing at the Geneva College Career Fair. With his interest in aviation and avionics, Isaac is looking forward to the training he will receive, and the possibility of becoming a pilot in 171st after graduation. He leaves for basic and tech training this February 2026. 

“There were so many hoops to jump through and probably a small chance of getting in [to the ANG]. But, again, it all just fell into place. I’ll still be able to finish my degree in four years, and it helps fund my flight training.” 

Ultimately, Isaac’s heart lies with aviation missions. At a missions fair in Skye Lounge, Isaac was able to meet organizations like Ethnos360 and Mission Aviation Fellowship. He learned about their short-term missions with a two-month commitment in places like Haiti or the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Isaac plans on getting involved in these missions over future summers and possibly joining full time once his service in the military is complete and he has earned his mechanic’s license. 

With so many new commitments, Isaac has found that his faith and the community at Geneva College help to keep him motivated. The core curriculum reminds him that education is meant to enable service to God and others. 

“It’s really easy to get sidetracked when you’re chasing all these things and end up missing the main focus. Through your education, you’re more equipped to help and serve others. I’ve been blessed to help people that I couldn’t have before because of the knowledge that I have now. That constant reminder is the best thing I’ve taken away from my time at Geneva so far.” 

Isaac found this attitude reinforced by the example of his engineering professors, who will go out of their way to support and talk with students as often as needed. The community of the Honors Program and his church help Isaac to continue following where the Lord calls and remember the greatest reason for loving and serving others. No matter which of the many paths Isaac pursues, he will be well prepared to serve the Lord with his unique gifts and interests. 

By Reagan Shields ‘26