2 answers
Summer
Student
Galt, California
1
Question
Updated
807 views
As a college freshman, what can I do to prepare for any future internships related to rocketry and space?
I want to get an internship in the space industry so I can gain experience. But I feel as though I'm at a disadvantage because I'm just started college. Is there anything I can do now so that I have a better chance to get an offer in the future?
Login to comment
2 answers
Michelle M.
Actress
3276
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Summer !
It's great that you are thinking about the future, but right now your courses for your Major may just be the most important thing. As a Freshman, you will need to ask your professor if internship placement is part of the academics and that is usually for students in their Junior and Senior year who have an intermediate understanding of the work so they can work an internship.
In the meantime, ask your professor what projects you can expect during your major path. It would also be good to start looking for volunteer positions. I knew that your town sounded very familiar, and since you are in Sacramento County, there are some opportunities for space and rocket-related volunteer work and other volunteer work in the Sacramento area.
Visit and inquire about volunteering at The Aerospace Museum of California in North Highlands. Not sure which college you are attending, but Sacramento City College holds their Aircraft Maintenance Technician program there. If you're not in that program already, inquire as to if you would be able to do volunteer work there. Something to consider for a summer would be the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, which offers staff positions at Space Camp, which involve leading teams of campers in hands-on STEM activities related to space exploration. There really isn't much focused on rockets and space where you live, but any volunteer work can be beneficial. Also, you probably know that there's a Planetarium at California State University, Sacramento, so find out when the public can attend and attend often.
Another idea for your Sophomore year would be to apply for Work Study on your Federal Student Financial Aid Application. You could possibly get a Work Study job in your Major Department starting next year. Visit your on campus Financial Aid office for details about Work Study. You can also put that work study job on your resume.
These were just some thoughts I had and information that I hope you find useful. Best wishes in all you do !
It's great that you are thinking about the future, but right now your courses for your Major may just be the most important thing. As a Freshman, you will need to ask your professor if internship placement is part of the academics and that is usually for students in their Junior and Senior year who have an intermediate understanding of the work so they can work an internship.
In the meantime, ask your professor what projects you can expect during your major path. It would also be good to start looking for volunteer positions. I knew that your town sounded very familiar, and since you are in Sacramento County, there are some opportunities for space and rocket-related volunteer work and other volunteer work in the Sacramento area.
Visit and inquire about volunteering at The Aerospace Museum of California in North Highlands. Not sure which college you are attending, but Sacramento City College holds their Aircraft Maintenance Technician program there. If you're not in that program already, inquire as to if you would be able to do volunteer work there. Something to consider for a summer would be the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, which offers staff positions at Space Camp, which involve leading teams of campers in hands-on STEM activities related to space exploration. There really isn't much focused on rockets and space where you live, but any volunteer work can be beneficial. Also, you probably know that there's a Planetarium at California State University, Sacramento, so find out when the public can attend and attend often.
Another idea for your Sophomore year would be to apply for Work Study on your Federal Student Financial Aid Application. You could possibly get a Work Study job in your Major Department starting next year. Visit your on campus Financial Aid office for details about Work Study. You can also put that work study job on your resume.
These were just some thoughts I had and information that I hope you find useful. Best wishes in all you do !
Teklemuz Ayenew Tesfay
Electrical Engineer, Software Developer, and Career Mentor
517
Answers
Ethiopia
Updated
Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer
Begin by developing a solid understanding of foundational space concepts while strengthening your mathematical modeling, analytical skills, and logical thinking through coursework in physics, calculus, and programming. Build personal projects, such as a model rocket, a small flight simulator, or a rocket trajectory simulation, and document your work on GitHub with design reviews, test plans, version control, and a portfolio that includes CAD models, data plots, and code. Expand your skills by learning Python, MATLAB, C/C++, CAD, machining, soldering, and basic orbital mechanics, and consider certifications like high-power rocketry, SolidWorks, or coding/embedded systems certificates to demonstrate relevant expertise. You can also gain practical exposure through free virtual programs, such as NASA’s L’SPACE Interactive Program or Thales’ Virtual Work Experience via Springpod, which provide hands-on tasks, teamwork experience, and certificates to showcase your skills.
Join a rocketry or aerospace engineering club and start networking with professionals through AIAA, SEDS, conferences, and workshops. Once you have some experience, apply for internships or volunteer roles to gain exposure to real aerospace environments. By following these steps, strengthening your knowledge, building projects, gaining hands-on experience, participating in virtual programs, and connecting with industry professionals and recruiters will significantly improve your chances of securing a job or internship in the field.
Join a rocketry or aerospace engineering club and start networking with professionals through AIAA, SEDS, conferences, and workshops. Once you have some experience, apply for internships or volunteer roles to gain exposure to real aerospace environments. By following these steps, strengthening your knowledge, building projects, gaining hands-on experience, participating in virtual programs, and connecting with industry professionals and recruiters will significantly improve your chances of securing a job or internship in the field.