Aiming High: Sophia Mcmilian

Sophia McMillian got nicknamed “McDrillian” because Sophia is the ROTC overall Drill Commander, Unarmed Drill Commander, and Training Officer. Her team leads the Unarmed Drill team to victory in competitions, and she trains her fellow ROTC peers for events. 

Time management is crucial in keeping up her grades while participating in all her activities.  “Trying to manage my time between schoolwork, sports, clubs, and community service was a major challenge. I had to learn how to manage my time and not procrastinate,” said Sophia while discussing her underclassmen years at Kalaheo. Teachers at Kalaheo are important to Sophia. Ms. Vela helps her with AP Psychology homework. Mrs. Koopman has been in Sophia’s life since she was six. “We have a really good bond and she’s always there for me,” said Sophia. The NJROTC Instructors always help her with anything she needs. They helped Sophia get into a flight school. 

Attending AIM HIGH Flight Academy’s pilot course, open to high schoolers, was an amazing experience for her. “Flight school was long and strenuous because it was flight training in the desert, so it was hot. I am happy that I went because I have my pilot's license now, so I can fly planes and go wherever I want. It’s such a crazy concept because I got my pilot's license before I got my driver's license,” said Sophia. One of her most valuable accomplishments was obtaining her pilot's license because Sophia McMillian is Hawaii’s youngest Black female pilot. 

Sophia isn’t the only McMillian in the community. Her dad is one of Kailua Intermediate’s Vice Principals. To Sophia, her dad being a Vice Principal is another opportunity to help her classmates. Sophia stated, “People will tell me how my dad impacted their life, and then they talk to me. I have the opportunity to mentor those students, connect with them, and help make a positive impact in their lives.” Sophia’s dream is to attend the University of Southern California, but she will accept Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego’s track scholarship offer if not accepted into USC. On top of running track in college, Sophia plans to major in Neuroscience to become a physician. 

Sophia is an example of how high school is a transformation.  She started slow and then hit the ground running to focus on achieving her goals.   Sophia added, “Your mentality and self-confidence will determine your success.”