OUT OF THIS WORLD INTERNSHIP

OUT OF THIS WORLD INTERNSHIP

BY STEVEN OFFIELD, DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL MEDIA & MARKETING

ALLEN HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT, MICHELLE FENG, was selected for the prestigious Student Enhancement in Earth and Space Science (SEES) summer internship at The University of Texas at Austin’s Center for Space Research. Students worked with scientists and engineers to conduct authentic research from data received from NASA’s earth observing satellites as well as designing Mars habitats, lunar exploration, and analysis of images from the International Space Station.

This nationally competitive program sponsored by NASA’s Texas Space Grant Consortium selects students who will increase their knowledge of science, technology, engineering, and math through earth and space education.

“The NASA internship exposed me to another field where STEM plays a crucial role,” said Michelle. “Through this internship, my team completed a research project investigating the Galilean moon Europa and its potential biosignatures.“

Almost 1,100 applications were received for the coveted 92 on-site internship positions. Students worked remotely with their project scientist prior to the on-site internship. During the two weeks, the students conducted hands-on activities, field investigations, attended presentations by NASA scientists and engineers, and worked on various NASA missions.

“I love STEM because I’ve always been amazed by how it can be applied in various fields,” said Michelle. “Working on the project has reinforced my future career plans in STEM, and the internship mentors have transformed my perspective on space research.”

The SEES internship proves that the excitement students feel about space science is a critical step in enriching science, math, engineering, and technology. SEES is a collaborative effort of Texas Space Grant Consortium members and affiliates, NASA, and The University of Texas at Austin’s Center for Space Research.