Meet Jayla Dao! Jayla is a recent graduate of Flowery Branch High School and plans to attend aviation school to become a pilot in the fall.
Question: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
Answer: “I come from a supportive and tightly bonded family of seven. As the second youngest child of five, I’ve learned how to balance different perspectives and take on both leadership and supportive roles. My parents are hardworking and have always encouraged me to follow my passions, especially in education and personal growth. My older sibling sets a strong example, while my younger sibling keeps me grounded and reminds me to enjoy the little things. Together, we’ve faced challenges and celebrated wins, and through it all, my family has been my foundation.”
Q: What are your plans after graduation?
A: “I will go on to college after graduation to pursue a career as a commercial pilot. I’ve always had a passion for aviation, and I’m excited to move forward to make that passion a career as a commercial pilot.”
Q: What are two of your favorite restaurants in our community?
“Chick-Fil-A and Chili’s.”
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
“If I could travel anywhere in the world right now, I would go to Vietnam to see where my parents and grandparents grew up. I want to connect with my culture, explore my roots, and experience the beauty of my motherland firsthand.”
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
A: “‘Grown Ups.'”
Q: If you were asked to give advice to your senior class and the younger students at your school, what would you say?
A: “If I were asked to give advice to my senior class and the younger students at my school, I would say, Everything happens for a reason. Even when things don’t go as planned, there’s always something to learn or grow from. Trust the process, stay true to yourself, and keep moving forward; you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.”
Q: If you were able to be cast as yourself into a television show or series, what show would you want to be in?
A: “‘Avatar: The Last Airbender.'”
Q: If you could choose anyone to have lunch with, who would you choose? Why? And where, locally, would you meet for this lunch?
A: “If I could have lunch with anyone, I would choose Bruno Mars. His creativity, talent, and versatility in blending music genres are aspects that I respect. I would like to know how he succeeded in the music industry, his music-making process, and what motivates him. We would lunch at a popular local restaurant with great music and an awesome atmosphere, perfect for enjoying good food and even better company.”
Q: What is your favorite thing about our community?
A: “How open and supportive it is.”
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
A: “Flying as a commercial pilot.”
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
A: “Sky Diving.”
Q: What is your go to band / singer when you cant decide what to listen to?
A: “SZA,”
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
A: “My favorite month is June, because it marks the start of summer, with longer days and freedom. My favorite holiday is the Lunar New Year, because it’s an occasion to catch up with family and celebrate traditions. The best one-day celebration on the calendar for me is my birthday, a day to look back, be grateful, and celebrate life.”
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
A: “Chè Thái.”
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
A: “My Parents.”
