Flying
Ever since I was old enough to dream, I have imagined myself soaring with the eagles. My love
of flying has shaped the way I live and the person I have become. Two years ago, that passion
rocketed to new heights when I had the opportunity to visit Embry Riddle Aeronautical University in Arizona. For a whole week I lived in a college dorm, roomed with a total stranger and---best of
all---I flew!
My group took part in activities ranging from learning about the history of aviation (航空) to
flying in state-of-the-art pilot training simulators (模拟装置). At least once a day, I devoted myself
to learning one of the world’s best training aircraft, the Cessna 182. Not only did I receive thorough
ground instruction, but I also got to fly. In total, I flew five hours to receive my private pilot’s license. In that one joyous and so-short week, my passion for aviation grew even stronger. Now, whenever I see a plane flying overhead, I feel a sense of pride thinking I’ve done that.
During my time in and above the Arizona desert, I learned not only about the mechanics and
techniques of aviation, but also about myself and how I see the world. As I floated in that seemingly
endless sea of air, I became aware of the variety and complexity of the humanity below. On the
ribbons of roadways, each tiny car carried people with hopes and dreams. I wondered if any of those people had ever wished to fly like an eagle. Then I realized that each must have his or her own
dreams and ambitions. That’s what makes us unique. We try to respond to something special inside
us. I also realized that I was especially fortunate to be making my own dream come true.
Everywhere I go, I hear, “Do what makes you happy and you will be happy.” It sounds like
standard advice, but I’ve really thought about it and taken it to heart. I couldn’t care less about how
much money I make or what benefits I rec
eive. I know that I am already in hot pursuit(追逐) of my
dreams. And, even if they change, even if they finally don’t involve aviation, I’ll always aim to fly
with the eagles.
24. Two years ago, the author ___________.
A. was admitted to a university B. stayed in a university for one week
C. saw the launch of the rocket D. made good friends with an astronaut
25. Paragraph 2 is mainly about _________.
A. which aircraft the author got to fly 
B. how the author learned to fly
C. what the author learned about simulators D. why the author got a pilot’s license
26. According to the author, ________ makes people unique.
A. flying like an eagle B. trying something special
C. having their own dreams D. learning unusual techniques
27. From the last paragraph, we can learn that the author _________.
A. cares a lot about money and benefits B. brings happiness to others
C. pursues his aims whatever happens D. offers advice wherever he goes