Be a Rocket Scientist
Yeah, rocket science really is that hard, but the results kick butt.
Steps
- Decide if this is what you really want to do. Getting the education to work for NASA or a commercial launch vehicle company means plenty of study and dedication.
- Decide which specific part of rocket scientist appeals to you. Do you want to build the rocket or plot the path to get it to orbit? Or are you more interested in the experiments conducted in zero g?
- Now that you have determined your course, you are ready to lay out your course of study. Which field of engineering appeals? That will, of course, be narrowed by the decision in step 2. Or which area of science? Or if you are undecided, or want to explore, just keep the broader limits in mind.
- Pick a university. As long as it's accredited and offers the course of study you're interested in, that's what matters most. If you have other specifics in mind, research, research, research. Colleges are always willing to help. They are looking for students.
- Enroll, study, and remember no matter how hard it may be, the results kick butt. Once you have your degree, the sky is not the limit. Imagine yourself on the space station, on the moon, or Mars, or on the console, counting down to liftoff.
- Co-oping or interning while in college provides valuable experience and also gives you a peek at your chosen field to help you be certain of your choice, and provide motivation to keep going forward.
- Apply. Apply again. Apply again. Needs change. Don't take "no" for a final answer. Examine all possibilities. Commercial companies like SpaceX, Orbital ATK, and Lockheed Martin are beginning to bloom. Working for a NASA contractor is another possibility.
