It's Just Rocket Science

Sophia – future aerospace engineer

When John F. Kennedy challenged our nation to get a man on the moon it inspired many to join the effort. My grandfather was one of these people and began his career in the early days of the Apollo program. The success of Apollo 11 was a milestone for mankind because it demonstrated that we had the technology to travel away from Earth. Today, with the threat of climate change and overpopulation, it is clear that we are going to have to eventually colonize other planets. This threat, along with the inspiring stories from my grandfather, is what made me want to become an aerospace engineer.

To pursue this demanding career, I will get a bachelor's degree in Aeronautical Engineering. Before going to college, I will take the following courses: Chemistry, Physics, Algebra, Trigonometry, and Precalculus. The fact that I am three years ahead in my math curriculum makes me well suited for this career.

Technology jobs are booming and increasingly in demand. With the new challenge of Mars exploration, jobs in the space industry are more necessary. SpaceX's successful demonstration of rocket reuse as well as recent NASA successes, such as the Mars rovers and the Pluto flyby, indicate that jobs in this field are more important than ever.

Although it is tough to meet the requirements of an aerospace engineer, there are plenty of jobs ready for those who work at it. If we want to continue to grow and be a successful species, we have to get off of the Earth.