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I have been on a long journey. I have been working with NASA since early 2011. My first opportunity was by the way of internship turned co-op at the Wallops Flight Facility in Virgina. This was such an amazing opportunity that I’m glad that I capitalized on. I was given the opportunity to see so many interesting things and that was my first mark on leaving an impression on the agency. I made some really cool friends and lasting memories. One of which, my group was granted the opportunity to sign one of the sounding rockets scheduled for launch into space. As so I signed my name, date, and my alma mater. So somewhere out there in space is a rocket shell with my name floating.
I was granted the opportunity to also contract with the Kenndey Space Center in Florida on two occasions. These times I was able to expand my work experience. I work in different departments outside of my major and experience. I was open to new challenges and learned a different side of the agency. Here too I meet some really interesting people and made more lasting memories. One of the most memorable was be able to board the space shuttle, as well help man the final crew on it send off for retirement.
As I continued to pursue more opportunities with NASA, some would arise with Johnson Space Center in Texas. I would go on to complete two separate contracts with this center. I witnessed so many amazing things here. I was able to meet at the time current astronauts, view the operations of the humanoid robot onboard of the ISS, tour the mock replica of the ISS and return pod, and so much more. I would make so many last friendships. Some of my greatest memories for these contracts was that I would professions trained and certified in scuba diver by the space instructor of astronauts, as well as I was given my first lesson on how to fly a plane (first time on a plane I might add).
The Jet Propulsion Laboratory would be my final destination. I would be in the midst of completing my masters when I would receive the call for the contract with JPL. I would accept despite knowing that the contract would conclude after my graduation. This to me was an opportunity to position myself for transitioning into full time worker. And that’s was ended up happening. I worked on some very challenging projects and got to see some pretty interesting and exciting thigs. It truly is a dream come true. From a star gazing child, to imaginative youth of the mystery of the great beyond, to an adult leaving his stamp on propelling human space travel into a new generation. All I can say is keep DREAMING.
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