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When Zackrey Schraeder (’25) learned that the at Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University could help him start earning college credits while he was still in high school, he didn’t think twice about signing up.

Today, Zackrey has leveraged the benefits of that academic head start and is firmly on course toward his B.S. in Unmanned Aircraft Systems, a degree he knows will open doors to a military career and also with top employers around the globe.

As he prepares to start his next term on the , Zackrey took a few minutes to discuss the vital edge Dual Enrollment has given him.

Tell Us a Bit About Your Background.

I was born in Maryland but moved to several different places in Europe and the United States as a military brat. I attended several different schools and decided on Embry‑Riddle after graduating high school in 2022.

How Did You First Get Interested in Aviation?

I did not have a big exposure to aviation when I was younger besides being on more plane rides than I could count. I would say I developed a passion for it during my high school years being in the Civil Air Patrol and constantly learning about military aviation.

Why Did You Choose Dual Enrollment at Embry‑Riddle?

I did not know about Embry‑Riddle until my mom started working for the in Germany as an academic advisor and I learned I could take online classes while still in high school. Choosing Embry‑Riddle was an easy decision because of the school's various STEM degrees, not to mention the impressive reputation that sets it apart from other universities.

What Were Some Highlights of Your Dual Enrollment Experience?

I took six Dual Enrollment courses, the majority of which were general education classes that could easily be knocked out before it was time for me to attend the university in person. My goal was to have a year's worth of credits so I could save time and money. I was able to achieve that goal and have some memorable moments along the way.

One big highlight of my Dual Enrollment experience was being able to meet other eager students online, as many of them would later attend the Daytona campus with me. My favorite part of the experience was only having to go to class two or three days a week during my senior year in high school because I had accumulated so many credits.

Why Did You Choose a B.S. in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Degree?

There are several degrees at Embry‑Riddle that I wouldn't mind pursuing, but I knew for sure that an Unmanned Aircraft Systems degree was the right choice. I was fascinated by the many applications of unmanned systems and how the field would only continue to grow, and I knew Embry‑Riddle would help prepare me for any route I wanted to take.

In my free time I enjoy flying drones for fun and taking photos and videos of the places I travel to. Being passionate about what I am studying makes the learning process easier while allowing me to be genuinely interested in what each course has to offer.

I decided to go to Daytona Beach mainly because of the and the opportunities for students. The tour of the campus sealed the deal for me, especially after seeing the palm trees and the

How Has Dual Enrollment Helped Your Academic Pursuits?

Dual Enrollment helped me get a feel for college courses so I could get gradual exposure to attending the university. Taking those classes at the same time as my high school courses improved my academics as well, as I ended up taking English 11 and 12 at the same time! Out of all of the positive aspects, the most beneficial has been the head start that is now allowing me to pursue a Master's in Unmanned Systems through the accelerated program. 

What is Your Ultimate Career Goal and How is Embry‑Riddle Helping You Reach It?

I plan on commissioning into the U.S. Air Force upon completing my degree. You can have almost any college degree and commission, but with mine I plan on serving for a couple years and then transferring to a job in the UAS industry either in the U.S. or Europe.

Embry‑Riddle has helped me prepare for a career in the military while simultaneously getting me the experience to work for a UAS company later. I do not know where life will take me, but I am not worried because God has it all planned out for me.

What Would You Say to Someone Considering Dual Enrollment at Embry‑Riddle?

I would say it is a worthwhile investment, as you can save time and money no matter where you go to college. Taking Dual Enrollment courses while in high school can be time consuming and a little confusing at first but starting with a few general education courses helps you ease into this new type of learning. 

During my dual enrollment experience, I started with one class at a time and gradually transitioned into taking two or three after I saw how I could balance those classes with my normal studies.

If you are nervous about how difficult Dual Enrollment might be, then it's best to start off with one class at a time and go from there. And don’t be afraid to ask the Dual Enrollment staff members for help because their role is to make sure students get the most out of the program.

Finally, don't be too focused on what your major will be, just knock out some general education courses and the rest will figure itself out. You'd be surprised how many students switch their majors at my campus!

Jump start your future now. Apply to Embry‑Riddle’s Dual Enrollment program today.