If you’ve ever wondered what the COMPASS test is, there’s no one better suited to answer that than someone who’s taken it. We talked with LIFT student Michael Goodyear about his experience with COMPASS and being accepted into LIFT.

Q: How did you prepare for the COMPASS test?
A: A couple days before the test, I did an internet search for “COMPASS test pilot” and read different articles on it. There are also some helpful YouTube videos that even show some sample questions, which was very beneficial.

Q: Did you use a study guide of any sort or prepare with any prep material?
A: I didn’t. The articles and videos were the extent of my preparation.

Q: Did you have prior flight experience?
A: Going into LIFT Academy, I had just over 100 hours of flight experience in the Cessna 172, Cirrus SR20 and SR22.

Q: What is the COMPASS test like? What was the most difficult part?
A: Due partly to the studying I did in advance, I didn’t find it to be that difficult overall. The hardest part for me was the math portion. I wish I would have reviewed some basic skills like long division before I took it.

Q: How was the interview with the recruiter?
A: I thought the interview went well. The recruiter asked some basic interview questions that I was prepared for, and he answered all my questions. I did not think of it as much as an interview but just a normal conversation.

Q: What was your feeling when you walked into LIFT?
A: Right away I knew that this was the best place for me. I was greeted by two recruiters, Caroline and Emily. I actually went to high school with Caroline, so that was a nice surprise. I had visited a few flight schools before, and I was impressed by how clean and organized the LIFT hangar was. I was also seriously impressed with the simulators. I haven’t seen anything like that in any other flight school.

Q: How did you feel after the test and interview?
A: I felt confident after the test and interview. I walked away knowing I did the best I could, which is all I could ask for.

Q: How long did you have to wait until you found out you were accepted?
A: I believe it was about two weeks until I heard back from LIFT that I was accepted.

Q: What were the steps you had to take to get enrolled?
A: I had to first choose a start date, which was December 16. I then had to get a first-class medical. There was also a background check and a drug screening, which is pretty standard. LIFT and I kept in touch before my start date, which was helpful in getting everything organized before my first day.

Q: Any advice you can share with applicants who are preparing to interview?
A: The best advice I can give is to do some research, not only about the COMPASS test but also do some research about LIFT and Republic. Make sure that not only is this flight school right for you, but also that Republic is the best regional airline for you. As for the interview, just be yourself and come prepared with questions! The recruiters are there not just to interview you but to help you as well.