ACC students apply now for NASA scholars program in fall

Austin Community College (ACC) students interested in an opportunity to interact with NASA scientists and engineers may apply now for NASA’s National Community College Aerospace Scholars project (NCAS). Applications are accepted through Tuesday, May 2.

Open to part-time and full-time students, NCAS gives community college STEM students an authentic NASA experience and encourages them to finish an associate degree or transfer to a four-year university to pursue a NASA-related field.

“Space has always been something that has intrigued me,” says Joanna Steele, ACC engineering student. “When I learned that I was selected to go to one of NASA’s centers for the on-site visit, I was ecstatic.  I will get to work alongside NASA engineers and other NASA community college aerospace scholars.  This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

Steele is among 348 community college students from across the nation selected to be part of NCAS this spring. The five-week scholars program culminates with a four-day event at Johnson Space Center in Houston and offers students the opportunity to interact with NASA engineers and others as they learn more about careers in science and engineering. While at NASA, students form teams and establish fictional companies interested in Mars exploration. Each team develops and tests a prototype rover, forms a company infrastructure, manages a budget, and develops communications and outreach.

The on-site experience at NASA includes a tour of facilities and expert briefings.

“NCAS not only inspires community college students to advance in STEM fields, but it also opens doors for future careers at NASA,” says Tania B. Davis, minority university research and education project manager.

“I’ve learned so much about NASA and their space exploration,” says Steele. “I wouldn’t have this opportunity without ACC.”

For more information visit ncas.aerospacescholars.org. All applicants must be students at ACC.

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