Skydive Graduates who just got their A license Skydiving Certification

Skydive Orange Student Skydiver Program - Graduates* - New Certified Skydivers who just got their "A" Skydiving license!

Graduates* and Instructors- Skydiving Students should fill out the information on this page when they get their Skydiving license. I really need graduate's information submitted in a timely manner. Instructors- please have graduates email their information right away when they graduate!

NEW! - Get 6** Free skydives from 2 1/2 miles high ($480 value) when you graduate!

*Graduate Student**	Student comments
Name: Ahmad Ismail Charlottesville , VA A License Date: 11/25/06	What I like the most about Skydive Orange : The Staff Actually CARES! Every one of the instructors love what they do, and want you to succeed. Their number one priority was always safety, followed closely with having as much fun as possible. The student gear isn’t ancient and falling apart. Once you get through being the new guy phase, the staff at Skydive Orange creates an extremely welcoming environment that accepts you into their family of goofballs very warmly, and once you get hooked, there’s no turning back. There are parties, potluck dinners and bon fires just about every weekend. I have felt extremely safe throughout the entire program. After graduating, I feel I have the skills to make skydives safely (kinda important). A couple of the instructors have even offered to continue coaching me to help me learn more skills and fun skydiving techniques including freefly. Skydive Orange also attracts a very cool crowd of experienced skydivers who are very inviting, and interesting in helping you progress your skill level and have fun with you. Skydive orange is a club, not a business, the people who work there do because they want to! Advice for other student skydivers: Don’t lose sight of why you started the AFF program in first place. Don’t get bogged down with thinking about time commitment or the cost, and JUST HAVE FUN! Its all worth it in the end, and every jump you complete is exponentially more fun than the previous jump. When you’re up in the air RELAX! The sky is much more forgiving to making little mistakes if your body is relaxed. Advice you wish you had been given: If the weather isn’t agreeable, LEARN TO PACK EARLY. That’s the one thing I wish I had done early. Also, practicing the dive flow on the ground over and over will save you money through the progression. Developing the motor-memory on the ground to help you perform the skydive right the first time will pay off literally by minimizing the number of skydives you might have to repeat. What I don't like about Skydive Orange : The purple jumpsuits have got to go, pick a more neutral color people. Suggestions for Skydive Orange : Have you thought about sponsoring a skydive team?
Name: Tony Halonen Annandale, VA A License Date: 11/25/06	What I like the most about Skydive Orange: The staff at Skydive Orange is topnotch! They are very knowledgeable, very experienced, patient, always willing to answer any question, and do not have any issues letting you know when you have done something you should not have done (Safety is always first). Everyone, staff and other skydivers alike are very safety conscious and will not hesitate to point something out. The atmosphere at Skydive Orange is quite like a family/friends setting rather than that of a stale business. I could not have asked for a better group of people to help me become a skydiver! Thanks to everyone! Advice for other student skydivers: Do not get discouraged because of delays. You will really quickly find yourself checking the weather report, and looking for wind speeds and cloud cover. When you have downtime and you will have downtime, don't just sit there, let the staff know that you want training. Ask to learn to pack, it is a detailed process and will help you when it is a busy day and the all the rigs with your canopy size are not packed, you will be able you pack your own, plus you will have to do that before you can get your license. What I don't like about Skydive Orange: I am really hard-pressed to find anything that I don't like about Skydive Orange. Suggestions for Skydive Orange: Keep doing what you are doing!
Name: Meredith Goetz "Hanger Banger" Fairfax, VA A License Date: November 10, 2006	I have wanted to learn to skydive since I was in high school. It took me over 15 years to finally get up the courage (and money) to accomplish this dream, but it has been well worth it. Skydive Orange was the perfect place to learn. The instructors are all completely awesome, knowledgeable, patient, and safety is top priority. I can say from personal experience that this is not true of every skydiving location, so I'm thrilled that I learned at a placed that watched out for my personal safety and made sure I knew what I was doing before they let me go on my own. I've given the instructors at Skydive Orange quite a few "Oh shit!" moments and more than a few episodes of shear panic. I like to think that I've kept things interesting and everyone on their toes. It's been a great ride so far, and I look forward to learning even more. Skydiving is definitely the coolest sport I ever done, and I don't think anything will ever top it. An extra special thanks to: Gigi, Mike F, Steve H, Hank, Nick, Kevin, Lambert, Dan O, Dan M, Paul, Shane, and Bob. You all were instrumental in my successful completion of AFF, and were the most patient and understanding people I've ever met. Thank you so much for your tough love instruction, extra time and explanations, and putting up with my type A personality. (Sorry if I left anyone out). Advice for other student skydivers Be patient. There are going to be many bad weather days or other issues that may keep you out of the sky, but that doesn't mean the day is wasted. There are so many things you can learn during that time (packing, open canopy orientation, etc), and if you take advantage of that you're going to be way ahead of the game. It's worth it. Advice you wish you had been given: I can't think of anything else I wish I had been told. I got advice and learned something from everybody I came into contact with at Skydive Orange. You can learn so much just by talking or watching other people, and there is always something new you can pick up. What I don't like about Skydive Orange I loved everything about Skydive Orange. There's not a thing I would change, and nothing I can think of that would make it any better than it already is. It is the perfect place to learn and the best place to have fun and continue diving.
Laura Foster Washington, DC I got my license on 5 November 2006	My story: Once upon a time, a group of 5 strangers wanted to jump out of a plane.... The five of us bonded when we did our practice PLF's in the pea gravel with Ned. After I did my cat A tandem with Lambert, he told me about the boogie and a skydiver was born. At the boogie, I watched Christine come so close to winning the pancake eating contest and Amy showed me how to be a good student and set up the kicking beer. Tony and I drove down from DC many an early morning and Jarad gave me a ride back so I could get as many jumps as possible. As my training continued, I met great new students at the harness and got to hear Roger teach all of us how to get out of all self-induced malfunctions safely. Danny and I fit $250 in beer into his very small trunk and Nishkam gave us a tarot reading. A kiss pass and the fair game talk later, I had my license. The best thing about Skydive Orange is by far the people. Skydive Orange has a great family atmosphere with the students, the fun jumpers, the instructors, the coaches, the packers, the videographers, and the tandems. Everyone looks out for each other and has a good time, and like a family, everyone will give you a hard time and expect you to pitch in when help is needed. The instructors are awesome!!! Each instructor did a great job of integrating extra safety tips and advice into every training category and still managed to make it fun. My advice to other student skydivers is to introduce yourself when you're going through the harness in the morning so you can get to know your fellow students and if you arrive with an extra coffee for Steve, he just might try a little harder to get you up in the air (Good call Danny). Listen to everyone, but verify anything you plan on doing with an instructor. Most of all, remember that it's cool to be safe :) My suggestion for Skydive Orange is to consider designating a small area against the wall for students. That way, all of our bags and equipment wouldn't be so spread out and we wouldn't look so lost all the time. Thanks for having a kick ass student program! Skydive Orange Rocks!!!
E. Roger Landmann Mayo, Maryland A license Date: 11/05/06	What I like the most about Skydive Orange: The staff. They are great. When you receive your A license from Skydive Orange, you will know how to safely skydive and you will be a skydiver Advice for other student skydivers: Show up on bad and high wind days to get your ground schooling, quizzes, and packing behind you early. Towards the end, things go quick. You don't want to be ready for your check dive and not know how to pack. Advice you wish you had been given: Bring lots of beer money for the two Fs. Firsts and F ups. What I didn't like about Skydive Orange: The Wind. Can't you guys control your weather any better than that? Suggestions for Skydive Orange: Keep a greeter at the front of the hanger to direct the first timers with lost looks on their faces and to answer questions from people who have loved ones doing tandems. And anything else you think appropriate: Skydiving did not come natural to me. I know the staff at Skydive Orange worked harder with me than with most. It took me so long to " get it ", that I got to work with ALL of the staff. They all helped me and they all seemed to enjoy helping me. The staff loves to teach, loves to skydive, and loves to have fun. Skydive Orange is also home to great students, great former students, and great fellow skydivers. If you want to learn to skydive, THIS IS THE PLACE.
Steve Townsend Woodbridge, VA A License date: Oct. 8, 2006	What I like the most about Skydive Orange: There are people in life who see things in life differently. I feel at home with the wackos who inhabit the hanger at Skydive Orange. Even though I'm a newbie, there are things where I can say, "yep - got that, too". I've got an oddball profession as well and I wouldn't have it any other way. I actually started jumping at Skydive Orange so long ago that it had just started being called that - Bob Churchill was running it and they were still listed in the phone book as Buckingham Paracenter. 22 years ago, I started the static line program in the same hanger that SOI is in now, but at that time, there were actually frigging airplanes in it. The only ground-to-air communication to students was a big-ass wooden arrow on a swivel out back of the hanger. You looked down from your (also big-ass) round T-10 military surplus parachute and watched some guy run his ass off, pointing the way for you to 'steer' that thing. Somehow I survived, had the time of my life, and I always had the desire to come back to complete what I'd started. I have to say that I'm very glad I finally did and that I've had the opportunity to do it with such a diverse group of people. Also, Ned keeps good rigs for student skydivers - that's more than a nice touch. Advice for other student skydivers: Don't wait 22 goddam years to come back to finish your license. Advice you wish you had been given: (see above) What I don't like about Skydive Orange: You've heard about the purple jumpsuits? Yeah - thought you did.
Austin "Goddess" Ogilvie Boston, MA and San Francisco, CA A license date: Aug 20, 2006	Dear Ned and Skydive Orange, I'm back up in Boston after a great summer in Charlottesville / Orange. You guys helped make my summer the best I've ever had. Skydiving with you guys has been an unbelievable time and I look forward to coming down and jumping with you guys more (and taking advantage of Ned's generous 6 free jumps. Please feel free to drop me an email with any updates, and I will be sure to keep you guys posted as well. I've jumped once since I left VA (in Danielson, CT). It was a nice place but it doesn't hold a candle to the setup you have down there. You are guys are lucky to have such a nice DZ. I will miss all of you. Special thanks to Ned, Laura, Ostrich, Hank, Scary Paul, Mike P, Mike F, Tres, Gigi, Dan M (packing still stinks), Wingnut, Eric, Nick, Steve H, Lambert, Dan O, Liz, Dan W, and anybody else I forgot (I didn't really meet the pilots but they are much appreciated). I'm off tomorrow to Jumptown, Orange, MA. Blue Skies! What I like most about Skydive Orange: The people I got to know at skydive orange are great. It seems like they get a kick out of teaching each student individually because everybody's skydiving journey is different. Gas N Stuff is right down the road. The weather is hot. Good looking tandem students are always around. Funny nicknames are given ie wingnut and ostrich Advice to other students: Jump when the weather is good. skydiving only seems expensive and dangerous when you are on the ground so just pay and get on the damn plane. Advice I wish I had been given: I don't wish for any specific advice, but I do wish I had learned to pack earlier on because you can make a few extra bucks while getting your A license if you can pack. What I don't like about skydive orange: nothing Extra stuff: i think i may owe you guys a few beers but im not sure
Beth Peterman Arlington, VA Graduation Picture (s)-I’ll send these is soon! (Webmaster's note- it's not like it's the first time a woman's liked to us.) A License Date: August 5, 2006	What I like the most about Skydive Orange… The people! Everyone at Orange is there to help you succeed. The program is safety intensive, with many instructors to get advice and tips from. You really get to know the staff and other students, which makes going out there every weekend even better! Advice for other student skydivers… Hmm…learn to pack early! CAT H seems far off when you first start but it will come quickly. I enjoyed spending the windy days just hanging out at the picnic table relaxing, but when it came down to packing for check dive I wished I had practiced more. Also, don’t get frustrated with the weather. I had terrible luck with windy days but was still there every weekend possible. Just take the time to get the quizzes done and train ahead, learn to pack, or just hang out. Advice you wish you had been given… Well…over the past 9 months or so I feel like I have gotten tons of great advice! I don’t think they left anything out. Thanks everyone for all of your help throughout the program! I really appreciate the time and energy you all put into it! There is nothing more freeing after five days in the cubicle J
Matt Bowes (or "Maaatt Daaamonn") Bethesda, MD Picture coming soon A License Date: 7/29/06	What I like the most about Skydive Orange: The training program is very thorough and the people are awesome. I never had a lack of information or attention when I wanted it. Advice for other student skydivers: Rocket through the program; the more current you are, the easier it will be to develop new skills. If you are cat-C or earlier, definitely stick around to cat-D and E before deciding whether or not skydiving is for you; I thought each category was more fun than the previous. If you want a real thrill, do your first unsupervised pack job on your 3,500 ft. hop & pop. Finally, be patient with the weather. Advice you wish you had been given: Everyone gave plenty of advice, so I can't think of anything. I definitely didn't expect it would be -that- much harder to stay stable without a jumpsuit, but I like surprises. What I dislike about Skydive Orange: Purple jumpsuits for students? It's almost hazing. Students want to look cool to make up for their inexperience. Suggestions for Skydive Orange: Do more to convince first-tandem-jumpers to stick around. Other Stuff: I love Skydive Orange!!!
Paul Salaets Germantown, MD A License Date 7/29/06	What I like the most about Skydive Orange: Amazing staff. Advice for other student skydivers: Get in as many jumps as possible on days with good weather. What I don't like about Skydive Orange: Hangar gets really hot in the summer. Suggestions for Skydive Orange: Maybe get some new photos for the hanging harness
Andrea Fitzgerald Fairfax, VA A License 7/4/06	What I like the most about Skydive Orange The staff and even the regulars are extremely friendly, approachable and willing to help. The plane flys weekends as well as weekdays so there are plenty of opportunities to jump (weather permitting). Fantastic aerial view of beautiful Orange VA. Large landing area makes it a good place for students to learn. Purple jumpsuits, red helmets, and pink altimeters.. I dig it. Advice for other student skydivers: Learn to pack as early on as you can, after you learn keep practicing it, and learn to pack different rigs… BE PATIENT!! Sometimes you might have to wait all day for winds to die down, but if you stick it out you can usually make a jump in the late afternoon. Advice you wish you had been given I always received lots of great advice, sometimes too much advice. Try incorporating different methods of doing things and develop your own style for various things… like packing. What I don't like about Skydive Orange Vending machine was out of water on some of those hot summer June days… gas n stuff is just down the road! Suggestions for Skydive Orange: I was extremely happy with my student training and progression. I have no suggestion Blue skies!
Buddy Testerman Fairfax, VA A License Date: June 14, 2006	The staff is exceptional. They are friendly, helpful, safety conscious and amazing skydivers themselves. (Editors note - that was not an editor's note) Advice for other student skydivers: Patience is a virtue. Those long hours sitting at the picnic area waiting on weather and winds is a great time to learn your ground skills (packing, studying your SIM, talking to instructors, taking quizzes, etc.) Be sure you always go through the safety procedures in the hanging harness. It could save your life. Advice you wish you had been given: Fat people fall fast! What I don't like about Skydive Orange: Jumpsuits are not big enough. :) Suggestions for Skydive Orange: A/C in the hangar would be nice.
J Kendal Wolf Washington, DC A License Date: June 10, 2006	I had a great time during my student program and during the essential canopy skills course last weekend - looking forward to the water training and learning more about skydiving! Hopefully I'll see you soon. Here's my grad form. Skydive Orange is a really friendly and safe place. The other skydivers are ready to accept new members into the family. It's a welcoming group of fun folks! * Advice for other student skydivers: Don't be afraid to ask questions -- LOTS of questions. The instructors, and all the other people, at Skydive Orange are really cool and when approached the right way (i.e. with a case of beer) will tell you anything you want. This place is full of great, fun people! Also, spotting is not complicated. Picking the spot, however, is more of an art than a science. The student program is more like a long course. It can take a looooong time to complete. You may learn loads about the weather, airplanes, and PATIENCE in addition to the basics of skydiving. * Advice you wish you had been given: Start learning how to pack the FIRST chance you get. Packing is tough and can be tiring. It takes time to learn to do by yourself. If you start learning and practicing packing early in your student program, on a windy day or another time when students are grounded, you will be better prepared to pack your chute by yourself. * What I don't like about Skydive Orange: No Metro access from DC :-( * Suggestions for Skydive Orange: A Skydive Orange web cam would be really cool! Thanks to Ned, Steve, and everybody else at Skydive Orange. See you all soon!
Sharon Johns Montpelier, VA April 30, 2006	What I like the most about Skydive Orange- The emphasis on safety is what I appreciate most about SDO. Each instructor I went out the door with made me feel safe. They always followed the same procedure and never forgot to do the gear checks. This routine always made it easier for me to focus on my goal for the skydive. Safety was always foremost. Fun was always a part of the skydive. So often I heard "relax and have fun"! It was a blast! I can't imagine what could be more fun. Advice for other student skydivers: Get the video! Advice you wish you had been given: It's more like advice I wished I'd taken. Don't flair early. What I don't like about Skydive Orange: It would be nice to have air in the summer and heat in the winter. It's great to be welcomed by so many friendly people. It is also great to get advice and encouragement from seasoned skydivers. I appreciate the opinions and concerns of all. Please feel free to remind me or correct me when you think I am amiss. Thanks to Ned and all who work manifest. Thanks to videographer's and Instructors.
Matt Craig Fishersville, VA A License Date: 16 April 2006	What I like the most about Skydive Orange The relaxed, yet highly professional and safety motivated environment. The staff are experts in their field. Safety is number 1, and the everyone there is willing to help you acquire the knowledge and confidence to get your license. All the fun and interesting "rules" when one lands in the D area only or perhaps at the truss factory. Advice for other student skydivers Patience, patience, patience! The weather (and busy days) can often lead to long days of waiting for your turn. Understand that those students on self supervision who have jumped 3 times already while you have sat on the ground all day waiting for an instructor, had to do their share of waiting too. Use the time wisely, ask questions, study the book, get ahead on ground training if possible. Windy and cloudy days are great days to get ahead on the "book work" so when the weather clears, all you have to do is jump. Don't be late, better yet, BE EARLY. Watch the other jumpers, especially their landing patterns on windy days. Advice you wish you had been given Bring snacks/lunch with you and plan on staying all day as much as possible. Sometimes your turn can change quickly (especially if you are on 2 jumpmaster status) and if you are in town getting food you could miss it. Wouldn't that stink. What I don't like about Skydive Orange They thing that really stinks about Skydive Orange is that there is nothing to complain about. Things that are frustrating are beyond the control of the staff, such as the weather. Of course it would be nice to have some "courtesy spray" in the restrooms for certain individuals to use when they are finished. Suggestions for Skydive Orange Continue the stress on safety and fun.
Clay Stephenson Stafford, Virginia A License Date 04/20/06	What I like the most about Skydive Orange Without question, it is the incredible instructors and skydivers who jump at Skydive Orange. At no time did I ever feel that I was being rushed or was unprepared. Everyone looks out for each other is very helpful in providing advice and suggestions to make you a safer and better skydiver. The ISP (Integrated Student Program) is very comprehensive and will give you confidence as you proceed through the program. Advice for other student skydivers On days when the weather is good, stay at the drop zone as long as you can and try to get as many jumps in as possible. There could be a string of weekends when the weather isn't cooperating and you want to maximize those good days. When the weather is bad, you can still move forward in your student progression by working on packing, studying the SIM (Skydiver's Information Manual), or watching and talking to experienced jumpers to pick up additional knowledge. Advice you wish you had been given Try not to "over-think" too much before you jump. There is plenty of time to complete the requirements for each category jump, so don't over-analyze it. Get out the door and just do it. I'm looking forward to learning more about the sport of skydiving and possibly earning more advanced licenses. I would highly recommend Skydive Orange for anyone interested in trying skydiving or for those who wish to pursue their license.
Joshua Braun Arlington, VA A License Date 1/1/06	Ned, hope all is going well. below is my SDO "graduate review." But I also wanted to thank you personally for everything. I have had a great time at SDO and will continue to spend countless weekends with all of you... with any luck some more of my friends will make the journey soon. Thanks for everything. Joshua What I like the most about Skydive Orange Every jump is better than the last and it is always one hell of a ride. Through my experiences at SDO I always felt safe and well taken care of. The SDO instructors and club members are great, their knowledge base is extensive and I always knew I could ask any question, and get an answer... or at least I would be directed to someone who may be better suited to answer the question. While they do follow the USPA's Integrated Student Program (ISP) the instructors don't try to rush you through the program and push you into something you are not ready for. They focus on the individual needs of the students and progress the education accordingly. They also pay close attention to all the elements to ensure the safest jump possible for you and a good day for the drop zone. All this really helps to relax you when you are about to throw yourself out of a plane at 13,000 feet. SDO is a great place to spend the day, I know it's a cliché' but it really is like a family there. The people are fun and talented, everyone's background is so diverse and yet we all share this common interest, it really creates a fun atmosphere on the ground and in the air. Advice for other student skydivers If you are interested in learning to skydive, stick with Skydive Orange. I'm sure there are a few cheaper places and ones that follow the same USPA's Integrated Student Program (ISP.) But you will have to search high and low to find the personal care and attention that is given to those at SDO. I will admit there were frustrating days, when I would drive over an hour at 7am on my "relaxing" days off, just to sit around for hours on end waiting for a chance to make another jump. It would seemed to be a wonderful day but because of the warm "gentle" breezes. I was grounded. but I always knew it was for my best. Advice you wish you had been given I'm not sure there really is advice I wish I had been given. It's more of an issue of, I wish I could have taken the advice to "relax more" but it's hard to do that at 13,000.. But I'm getting better. What I don't like about Skydive Orange Ever since the Floor Manager program started it has been difficult to complain about much. There used to be long waits as a student to get on a flight and make a few jumps. You could expect to get one, maybe two in. Now with the new program at SDO with floor managers, they are able to accommodate students wonderfully, as soon as you are ready, you can be added to the next plane's manifest. (Assuming the weather is OK of course.) Suggestions for Skydive Orange: Keep the great staff and members and continue to grow and pioneer the next best thing. You have a great club and you make SDO a great place to get away from our other lives. Blue Skies!!!!
Michael Frey Gaithersburg , MD Graduated 11/11/05	What I like the most about Skydive Orange: Fantastic student program. Safety is the number one priority at Orange . The ISP is definitely the way to go for students. Excellent instruction from all instructors. Friendly atmosphere. I would recommend Sky Dive Orange to anyone, and I have. Advice for other student skydivers: If you see the pilot chute in front of you, that’s a bad thing! Advice you wish you had been given: Be patient with the weather. What I don't like about Skydive Orange: Nothing comes to mind. Suggestions for Skydive Orange: Cater to pre-paying students.
Freddie Ephraim Silver Spring, Maryland Graduated 8/24/2005	What I like most about Skydive Orange is the instruction. The instructors are not only experienced, but are very good at instructing. A person can be a great skydiver, but not a good teacher, which is not at all prevalent at Skydive Orange. The AFF program is very well set up and adequately teaches students to become safe skydivers. I was also drawn towards the crowd that are regulars at Skydive Orange. The people are very are always very friendly and helpful when it comes to answering questions that I am always thinking of. I also enjoy the area that Skydive Orange is located at. It provides a safe dropzone area as well as a decent commute. I looked at other dropzones to do my training at and I am very glad that I chose Skydive Orange. Advice that I would give skydiver students is to ask someone about a question they have rather than just keeping it to themselves. Everyone at Skydive Orange is more than willing to help. We are all there for the same reason, to have fun and be safe doing it. I was always very impressed with the detailed and knowledgeable responses that I received from anyone that I asked questions. What I don't like about Skydive Orange..... That it does not have any air conditioning for packing in ridiculously hot weather! (but I guess it makes me appreciate the airplane rid up more)! Suggestions for Skydive Orange: Keep the floor manager program going! When I first started skydiving, we did not have this and I was lucky to get one jump a day when I came to skydive orange. After the floor manager program started, I was able to get up 6 times in one day! It was an amply efficient program that evolved the AFF program from one of waiting to jump into one of getting ready to jump. Keep up the floor manager program for current and prospective students! It works! ~Freddie
Tom Yum Graduated August 8, 2005 -	We'll see what Tom has to say soon!
Sarah McIntyre Germantown, MD Graduated July 10, 2005 - Jump #25	WHAT I LIKE MOST ABOUT SKYDIVE ORANGE: Excellent student program! I did some research before my first AFF jump. As a result, I discovered that there are two training programs being offered in our area. When I began, Skydive Orange was the only local dropzone offering the USPA's Integrated Student Program (ISP). This training program includes extensive instruction regarding safety, canopy control, landing patterns, parachute packing, spotting, etc. The ISP is more rigorous than the old AFF program (Levels 1-7) offered at other dropzones. During my student training, I went to two other dropzones. In comparison to the others, the instructional staff at Orange is extremely thorough and very safety oriented. MY ADVICE FOR OTHER STUDENT SKYDIVERS: Don't flare too early! Seriously, earning your 'A' License takes patience. When you're waiting to jump, it might seem like everyone else is going and you are left behind. The instructors at Orange are doing everything to ensure your safety. Listen to them. As you know, skydiving is contingent upon favorable weather. If the conditions are questionable, they won't put you up in the air. More advice...Don't be afraid to ask your questions. There are no stupid questions. If there is something you don't understand, ask a qualified instructor. ADVICE I WISH I HAD BEEN GIVEN: Save some flare. SUGGESTIONS FOR SKYDIVE ORANGE: It would be really nice to have a handbook for new people. Something that gave students additional information about the training program, the basics about Skydive Orange, and what to expect after earning a license. :) ADDITIONAL COMMENTS: You don't just become a skydiver at Orange. Somewhere along the way, you become part of the family. Thanks again to everyone that helped me achieve my goal.
Brett M. Dashe Home: Danville, CA	A License Date June, 26 2005 Jump # 35 total jumps- 36 School: Senior at Vanderbilt University; Nashville, TN I like how safety conscious everyone at skydive orange is. It is a dangerous sport, but it is safe as long as everyone stays responsible for themselves and each other. I have felt that vibe from everyone every time I have jumped here. For student jumpers- don't get discouraged by bad weather, high winds, or anything else that can adversely affect jumping, it happens. Stick with it, stay safe, and have fun! Downers for Orange- not many, sometimes it seems to take a while to find a rental rig when things are busy, it can take a while to get a rig packed, and sometimes it takes a while to get manifested through student manifest. Time to start freeflying, I cant wait to get my own rig and take my jumping to higher levels!!!
Nate Harpe Washington, DC May 29, 2005	I like the emphasis on safety and that all the instructors keep to that ideal of safety first. I also really appreciate how jumpers with more experience than you will offer advise based on what they see you can improve. It's a family. Advice for other student skydivers Be patient, be patient, be patient and while you are waiting to jump study the SIM, and practice, practice, practice in the harness one day it will save your life. Also you can learn much about skydiving on the ground just by being around skydivers. Learn how to pack as soon as you can, that way when you are on weather hold (and you will be) you can practice your packing skills. Advice you wish you had been given I'm sure I was told this and just forgot. Look out at about a 45 degree angle when landing. If you look straight at the ground your vision will get overwhelmed with ground rush and there will be no way to determine how high you are. Orange is 85 miles from my house. I wish it were closer. Also I wish there was more R/W instruction. Suggestions for Skydive Orange: I thought it might be a good ideal to have one of the videographer film the pattern and landing from the canopy pilots perspective. That way new jumpers would know what to expect. Just like the training harness. The first time I had line twists it was no big deal because I'd seen them many times by then.
Paul Richard Wolfe Columbus Ohio Graduated April 20,2005	I feel that Skydive Orange is the best dropzone around! The staff is unmatchable everyone there is fun, caring, and encourage safety more than anything. I have jumped at four different dropzones and Orange has got to be my favorite. One thing I would tell other students is to just stick with it I have been held back by every possible weather hold there could be for students and I know how much it sucks but hang in there and keep motivated, don't be afraid to get out of the plane. More than anything pay attention to everything your instructors have to say they give you the know how to save your life, and they will never steer you wrong. I wouldn't say that there is anything wrong with Skydive Orange and I will recommend it to anyone. I would just like to say thank you to everyone that saw me through my student progression and helped me get the training that will carry me on to be a better skydiver.
Svetlana Cherkasova Reston, VA 04.09.05	What I like most about Skydive Orange: Professional, friendly instructors and coaches who follow the safety rules! Advice for other student skydivers: Be brave but reasonable, have your own opinion but ALWAYS listen to smart(er) skydivers, do not be afraid to ask questions- some day it might save your life! Fly, enjoy and be safe. Advice you wish you had been given: You can do everything that these people can do. It's easy! Just needs a little practice. What I don't like about Skydive Orange: Nothing comes to my mind. Suggestions for Skydive Orange: Keep up the GOOD work!!!
BRIAN LEE BARNHART Woodbridge, VA Gradated February 13, 2005	What I like most about Skydive Orange: Skydive Orange has a great atmosphere. It’s relaxed and friendly. But also, safety is always the top priority and that’s very reassuring. Advice for other student skydivers: I would say, be persistent in your continuing progress through the course. Also patience with the weather is a must. Advice you wish you had been given: My instruction was 1^st rate and my instructors always had a few words of advice to share. So I feel pretty complete from advice of the experienced. Suggestions for Skydive Orange: If I were to say anything at all it would be to look after the students progress. Assure that they are progressing through the course efficiently and to see that their priorities are met. Mike French did a great job with this. He is by far my favorite instructor. Students are a big part of the bread & butter for the DZ, the instructors and also the future of the sport.
Jim Evans Graduated February 13, 2005	... And we're waiting to hear Jim's comments...
Prior to 2005, we hadn't methodically required all our graduates to turn in their graduate information. Actually, it was only towards the middle of 2005 that we started giving the free jumps when they email us their information. So actually, there were lots of Graduates before 2004, we just hadn't gotten the graduate webpage up and running.
S. McKee Graduated 18 Dec 04	What I like the most about Skydive Orange: Friendly faces, beer, laid-back atmosphere, beer, attentive instructors, beer. Advice for other student skydivers: Be patient with your progression, and above all, be patient with yourself. It takes more time than you think to get through the program due to weather, instructor availability, learning curve, your own nerves and of course, money (unless you are rich). If you can afford it, go to the wind tunnel. It will help you relax and broaden your understanding of how your body works in freefall. Advice you wish you had been given: Don't get too far downwind when you are jumping a 260 square-foot chute. You won't make it back to the DZ. Seriously, though, I can't think of anything. My instructors gave me every bit of instruction I felt I needed. What I don't like about Skydive Orange: Stinky purple student jumpsuits (Sorry Staci, I'll order a few stinky blue ones for you...) Suggestions for Skydive Orange: Get new student goggles and wash the jumpsuits more often! :)
Jason Galindo Waldorf, MD Graduated 10 Dec 2004	What makes Orange such an awesome drop zone? It's the people. You won't find a better group of skydivers anywhere in the country. Advice for other student skydivers Skydiving is expensive and students need ideal weather conditions to maximize safety. You will spend many hours sitting around the picnic table wondering when you will get to jump. Be patient and you will get licensed before you know it. Additionally, be humble!!!! Skydiving isn't exactly the safest sport. Combining a dangerous sport with a cocky attitude could be deadly for you and those around you. Remember, there is always someone who knows something you don't. Listen to your instructors and the other experienced jumpers. Their advice could save your life. What I don't like about Skydive Orange So damn far from Waldorf! Is there any way you could move the dz closer to me? Suggestions for Skydive Orange: Don't forget about jumpers once they are licensed. Oh, get some damn heaters for the winter time for God's sake. It's cold as a son-of-a-bitch in the winter time. And anything else you think appropriate. Don't forget to buy your beer when ever you have a "first." If you don't, Tre Tre and the beer God's will punish you! (Jason's post graduate $.02 was submitted September 2005, hence the inclusion of this sit-fly photo and .wvm video from almost a year after he got his A license: Click here to see his 3.5MB sit fly video- not bad for someone who has been in the sport for less than a year!
David Becerra Graduated Dec 2004	Ned needs to find the paper David filled out and gave him... That's why we are asking everyone to email their information from now on.
Dan Michalak Graduated Dec 2004
Chad Salo Graduated December 4, 2004 Crownsville, MD	What I like the most about Skydive Orange: The people at Orange are awesome. Whether it is the instructors helping you along your jump categories or everyone just hanging out by the bonfire, the people at Skydive Orange really make it what it is. Advice for other student skydivers: You'll hear it from everybody, but the best advice really is to just relax. Oh, and don't spend the night alone with Ostrich in his trailer. Advice you wish you had been given: Don't spend the night alone with Ostrich in his trailer. :) Seriously though, I wish I had been told to make sure my leg straps were still tight after sitting in the airplane on the ride up. I had some sore legs from opening my canopy after my leg straps had loosened a bit. Suggestions for Skydive Orange: On those busy days with dozens of tandems, try to schedule a few of the AFF students in the mix along the way. It can be very frustrating watching tandem after tandem getting in the plane when you and all of the other AFFs are sitting idly by at the picnic table.
Leslie Groomes Graduated Dec 2004

Graduates and Instructors- Skydiving Students should fill out the information on this page whenever you sign off a new A license Skydiving Certification.

This list of skydivers who've just earned their certification only includes the most recent ones, since we just added this webpage in early 2005. There have been hundreds of certified skydivers who learned to jump here over the last 26 years that people have been skydiving here at Orange. Skydive Orange is the place to get certified for people in Virginia, Maryland, Washington, DC, and West Virginia. With the addition of a student skydive manager (Student sky diving operator) who manages repeat AFF operations, skydiving training operates more efficiently especially on busy jump days when we make lots of dives.

By "Graduate", at Skydive Orange we refer to a person who has achieved their USPA "A" license skydiving certification and is therefore adequately trained in the basics of skydiving to be a competent, safe skydiver. If you compare us to other skydiving places, odds are they consider someone to be one of their "graduates" if they've just "graduated AFF" meaning they no longer need an instructor in the air with them. While not needing in air freefall assistance is a respectable milestone, it does not mean that that person is fluent in all the areas to skydiving to be able to make sound judgments on their own. Historically, those learning to skydive were allowed to jump on their own with minimal to no additional supervision after "completing AFF" (meaning the first 7 jumps) and all too often this resulted in the all too frequent appearance of the meat wagon at the drop zone, because all the attention those fun freefall skills didn't do anything to teach the details of canopy control.

Get 3 6 Free skydives when you graduate!

This is the only page on this skydiving website with a cloud background, and I promise it will stay that way!