Cameron Jensen, a sophomore engineering sciences major at SUNY Corning Community College, has distinguished himself by participating in the NASA Community College Aerospace Scholars (NCAS) program.
Jensen’s involvement in the program is a testament to his academic dedication and passion for aerospace studies. He has successfully completed the first two missions of the three-part program, with the latest mission concluding on October 26, 2023.
Jensen’s journey began with the completion of Mission 1, a five-week online course offered by NCAS. His assignment involved developing an infographic to promote a NASA mission, under the guidance of a NASA mentor. His outstanding work in this task led to his selection for Mission 2, making him one of the few community college students across the nation to earn this opportunity. In Mission 2, Jensen and his team devoted a week to designing a lunar habitat mission focused on exploring crop growth beyond Earth. Their rigorous effort culminated in over 150 pages of documentation and a presentation to a panel of NASA professionals.
The final phase, Mission 3, will involve an in-person experience at a NASA space center, with Jensen and other participants eagerly awaiting invitations. The NCAS program, funded by the Minority University Research and Education Program (MUREP), aims to engage underrepresented and underserved students in STEM fields. It serves as a pathway for students to progress from academic participation to potential careers at NASA. Torry Johnson, MUREP Manager, highlights the significance of NCAS in inspiring students like Jensen and opening doors to future opportunities at NASA, possibly leading them from NCAS participation to becoming NASA colleagues.
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