Path to NASA or lockheed (engineer–pilot) where?

[dinglebrits]

so i am aware that these are all very unique and extremely hard to get jobs.

just wondering if theres anyone out there thats made this path or has a good idea of how to get there, my ideal plan is to get into an amazing engineering college (MIT/CALTECH/GEORGIA) and participate in the airforce ROTC during that time. and then of course get my 4 years of duty (hopefully as a pilot) post-graduation… then i’d like to try to get a job at nasa or a major government funded aerospace company and then eventually apply to the astronaut program.

keep in mind that’s all IDEAL, i know its extremely difficult.

any tips? im at the point where i need to pick my college here soon… any tips on which to apply to get where i want to go?

[y82benji]

Also post this on the “Ask Admissions Consultants” thread.

Why not apply to the Air Force Academy? All of the service academies are renowned for their high academic standards. Honestly, I would think a 3.8 at the Air Force Academy would be weighted the same as a 3.8 from MIT.

Check out this little story from the NASA website that talks about how one astronaut got her job: http://www.nasa.gov/audience/forstudents/9-12/features/F_How_to_Become_an_Astronaut.html
It might give you some insight on generally what to do.

The next thing is, don’t get in trouble with the law and plan on getting A’s!

Finally, if you are really serious, find astronaut registers on NASA.gov and contact a few for advice. It can’t hurt to ask.

[dinglebrits]

heh, im clean with the law, in response to the air force academy however, i made the decision that i want a REAL college experience, and the air force academy is truly a radical one. i have a cousin that went there, otherwise i’d be going there for sure.

[y82benji]

Well that makes sense. It’s good that you thought of it. The link I posted is about someone who didn’t go to a service academy, so ROTC is still definitely a good way to go. Best of luck in your efforts.

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