Mar 17, 2021
5 Misconceptions about Applying for a NASA Internship
Every year NASA offers thousands of internships that specialize in dozens of majors to students from all backgrounds. There are many internship projects at NASA for students interested in Aeronautics Research, Human Exploration and Operations, Science, and Space Technology, just to name a few. To be eligible, there are a few requirements that students must meet in order to apply for a NASA internship.
Interested applicants must be:
- U.S. Citizen
- Cumulative 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale)
- 16 years of age at the time of application
- Enrolled in a degree-granting program at an accredited college or university (high school to graduate)
Even with these very basic of requirements, many students still have some misconceptions when it comes to applying for a NASA internship. We’re here to change that. When students are choosing where to apply for their next internship, we want you to explore the extraordinary with us. That’s why we have decided to explore five misconceptions students have that stop them from applying for a NASA internship and help you overcome impostor syndrome when applying. Which of these are holding you back?
1. “I do not have a STEM major or degree.”
A major or degree in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) is not required to apply for a NASA internship. NASA offers hundreds of internships for students majoring in a variety of majors outside of STEM including journalism, business, and human resources.
Sarah Adewumi, a senior at the University of Maryland-Eastern Shore, majoring in Aviation Science with a concentration in science, and three-time NASA intern shared that, “Even though I don’t have a technical background, being surrounded by projects and knowledge within the STEM industry has given me such an advantage; moving forward within my own career as I gain technical knowledge, I know I can bring that unique perspective to business and/or management.”
Adewumi has interned at three NASA centers and advises students, “My advice to non-STEM students who are interested in applying is to not be concerned about the stigma/misconception that only STEM students can apply. There are so many opportunities available for non-STEM students so don’t be afraid to take that first step and apply. As a student with a business background, I was so surprised but elated to find out just how many positions I actually could apply to and enjoy!”
2. “I am a community college or high school student.”
The second misconception is that if a student attends a community college they cannot apply. Our internship program is available to students who meet our eligibility requirements, including those who attend a community college or are in high school. Our internship program works closely with the NASA Community College Aerospace Scholars (NCAS) program, which gives community college students interested in STEM an authentic NASA experience.
NCAS encourages students to finish their two-year degree or transfer to a four-year university to pursue a NASA-related STEM field or career. Community college students can also kick-off their intern journey at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) through Student Independent Research Intern. Both community college and high school students can partake in available NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement opportunities as well.
3. “I am not old enough.”
The third misconception about applying for a NASA internship is that students believe they are not old enough. You must be 16 years of age, when you apply, and must meet the remainder of the requirements to apply and be considered for an internship. However, K-12 students can learn about opportunities and resources available with NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement.
4. “I am not smart enough.”
The fourth misconception is that students think they are not smart enough. As long as you have at least a 3.0 GPA you can apply.
Lisa Illowsky, an intern program coordinator for NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center said, “I think the reputation of NASA is greater and it causes a little bit more anxiety for people. But if you don’t apply there is a zero percent chance that you have an opportunity at NASA. You never know what skillset you are listing in your resume that a mentor is looking for.”
To get you started, here are 10 Things You Can Do Now to Prepare for a NASA Internship.
5. “I don’t speak perfect English.”
The fifth misconception is that some students think that if they do not speak perfect English they cannot apply. As long as you understand the English language and are able to write and communicate in English you can apply for an internship.
As NASA continues to move forward with the Artemis program, you, the Artemis Generation and future STEM workforce, will help take us to distant worlds. Are you ready? Visit us and apply at https://intern.nasa.gov.
Ramona Barajas Villar, Social and Digital Media Intern
Office of STEM Engagement
Last Updated: Nov 22, 2021
Editor: Sandra May
