Tweet

In the realm of academia, the completion of a PhD is often seen as the pinnacle of success, a culmination of years of dedication, research, and intellectual pursuit. However, for Dennis McCall Jr., February 7th, 2024, marked not just the attainment of his PhD in Air Transport Management, but also a journey through self-doubt and resilience.

While the achievement of earning a doctorate should have been a moment of pure celebration, McCall found himself grappling with feelings of inadequacy. Despite understanding the inherent challenges and the normalcy of corrections in the PhD process, he couldn’t shake the sense of failure that overshadowed his accomplishment. The weight of expectations, both self-imposed and external, bore heavily on him in the months that followed.

In a candid social media post, McCall reflected on his journey, acknowledging the hurdles he faced, particularly amid the challenges of the COVID era. Logistical obstacles, geographical barriers, unresponsiveness, and financial constraints all threatened to derail his path. Yet, amidst these challenges, McCall found strength in his support system and a newfound understanding of self-compassion.

“Upon reflection, I’ve come to realize that I’ve been overly harsh on myself,” McCall wrote. “Undertaking a PhD amidst the challenges of the COVID era presented numerous hurdles… However, today, I proudly stand tall, uplifted by the unwavering support of my support system.”

With a master’s degree in Air Transport Management and a bachelor’s degree in Management (Tourism & Hospitality Management), McCall’s academic journey has been one of continuous growth and learning. Through various positions, including roles as a Learning for Sustainability Frontrunner and Dean of the CARICOM Youth Ambassador Corps, he has honed his skills in research, advocacy, and leadership.

Recognizing the Caribbean’s heavy dependence on the aviation sector and its susceptibility to the impacts of climate change, Mc Call centered his doctoral thesis on delving into the complexities of sustainable aviation within the region. His research aimed to provide viable solutions not only for the Caribbean but also for other Small Island Developing States. His findings underscored a myriad of challenges confronting the industry, including the absence of sustainable aviation policies, limited cooperation among regional aviation stakeholders, and significant political interference. Clearly, his vision transcends mere academic inquiry; it is underpinned by a dedication to advocating for environmentally responsible practices and cultivating a more sustainable aviation landscape.

As McCall puts the finishing touches on his corrections, he looks ahead to the next chapter of his journey within the realm of Sustainable Aviation. His resilience in the face of adversity serves as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us all of the power of perseverance and the importance of self-compassion in the pursuit of our dreams.