The Red Planet Dream by Julia

The Red Planet Dream by Julia - February 2021 Scholarship Essay

Ever since I was a child looking through my dad’s telescope in our backyard, I have been fascinated by space. I have enjoyed every opportunity available to learn more about the universe we live in, including attending Space Camp at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, competing in multiple MN State Science and Engineering Fairs, and launching several weather balloons. This has led me to pursue a career as a research scientist. Additionally, because I am a logical, numbers-oriented thinker, I tend to excel in STEM courses. Therefore, I desire to combine my interests and abilities by studying physics and astronomy in college and later obtaining a doctorate in astrophysics. This higher education would prepare me for my ultimate career of working in a space-related research facility such as NASA or SpaceX. I am naturally a very inquisitive person and I want to learn more about the processes that shape our universe, the magnificent celestial bodies within, and whether or not humankind is alone. As an astrophysicist, I would develop theories and hypotheses about the universe, conduct scientific experiments and observations to test those theories, and share this knowledge with the rest of the world.

In addition to becoming a scientific researcher, my end goal is to be an astronaut on one of NASA’s Mars missions in the 2030s. I have desired to be an astronaut ever since I went to Space Camp as a child and learned this dream was attainable. In order to be an astronaut for NASA, I would need at least a master’s degree in a STEM field and at least two years of experience in that field. However, I know that pursuing my genuine interests in astrophysics and astronomy will propel me towards fulfilling this lifelong dream.

My definition of success is when I step foot on the Red Planet as an astronaut on one of NASA’s future Mars missions.