SAAC, or the Student Aerospace Advisory Council, hosts an organization fair every year for new and current aerospace students to explore. Countless organizations from UND’s Aerospace College come together to represent themselves, to meet others, and to inspire new students to get involved by joining an aerospace extracurricular organization. This year, organizations such as SAMA (Student Aviation Management Association), NGPA (National Gay Pilots Association), and UND FMA (Flying Musicians Association) were just a few of the organizations that attended the SAAC Organization Fair. By attending, existing organizations were able to recruit new students, and spread the word for their organization. Over 25 aerospace-focused clubs attended this year, providing a multitude of diverse students, majors, and interests.  

With the current climate of the aviation industry, the search for well-rounded pilots is prosperous. With record numbers of students in the Aerospace College, there is no sign of slowing down for UND aerospace. Students from all around the world flock to UND for its distinguished aviation program in pursuit of one of the finest degrees to exist. After talking with a few of the organizations at the organization fair, the passion for aviation, outreach, and genuine impact was evident. 

Arjun Jagada, President of SAAC, had the privilege of leading this year’s SAAC Organization Fair. Jagada hopes to “enact lasting change for the students of UND Aerospace, a world-renowned center for aerospace sciences, and one of the finest flight training schools in the world.” Jagada, while being the President of SAAC, also works in the College’s Deans Office, and has served campus in an abundance of ways since coming to UND. Jagada encourages students to take part in organizations, as it “demonstrates involvement and dedication and provides many avenues for new friendships and opportunities.” He explained that with the guidance of the Dean of Aerospace, Dr. Robert Kraus, SAAC is able to continually pursue a dual-fold mission. First, SAAC addresses student concerns and suggestions, and simultaneously creates “student-focused solutions.” Second, he explains that SAAC interprets faculty and administrative policies and procedures back to the student body. Jagada encourages those interested in SAAC to visit saac.aero.und.edu to learn more. 

Sadie Blace is a Dakota Student General Reporter. She can be reached at [email protected].