What motivated you to enter the space industry?
From a young age, I have enjoyed learning (Fun fact: I have never missed a day of school!). I joined extracurriculars like HOSA - Future Health Professionals, UIL Academics, and Academic Octathlon (where I placed top 3 overall!). Having grown up near Johnson Space Center, I was curious about how it would be like to work there. I still recall finding out about being accepted to intern at NASA!

What are some highlights of your experiences in the space industry, career-wise or otherwise?
One highlight was a kickball game with astronauts! The game was a fun way to relax after work. Another is having the opportunity to tour family and friends around the campus; these visits forge unforgettable memories! Being a part of the Silicon Valley Future Leaders Celebration was wonderful. Leisurely strolling through Galaxy Lights was an eye-catching experience, and Lion Dance performances at NASA were amazing!

Taking Our Best Shot: what is it, and what do you do?
Taking Our Best Shot (TOBS) is an initiative dedicated to promoting public health and STEAM education in the community! Our team is composed of individuals from a wide range of backgrounds, including public health, medicine, community and civic engagement. TOBS does infographic challenges, community and health fairs, health seminars, presentations and much more. For our efforts, we were honored to be recognized by the City of Texas City located in Texas. It is thrilling to share our work and engage with others, whether informally or at conferences such as the Healthier Texas Summit, Texas Society of Public Health Education (Texas SOPHE), Open Texas Conference, and the Science Summit at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Please follow us on social media (@takingourbestshot) and reach out if interested!

What do you think has contributed to your success and leadership skills in this industry?
It was incredible to meet and commemorate the stories and paths of the 20 Under 35 honorees, and our names went to the moon! Similarly, the 40 Under 40 Honoree celebration was amazing to attend alongside my family. One characteristic which has contributed to my success is my willingness to explore new opportunities and fields. As the first person in Rice’s history to earn degrees in both Space Studies and Economics with a Business minor within 5 years, I strive to blaze new paths! Each of us has our unique attributes and ways to make an impact on society.

What gets you the most excited for the future of space?
As someone based in Texas, I am particularly excited to see how the future of space will evolve here in the Lone Star State! John F. Kennedy gave his “return to the moon” speech at my alma mater. Since then, things have changed drastically! I strive to share my excitement with the public.