It was an amazing experience for independent research, even when we had to do research virtually, due to COVID.
What I wish was different
It would've been great to have been in person, but overall it was a great experience!
Advice
Just go for it and apply! I thought I didn't have a chance, but I applied and was accepted!
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Aerospace Engineering Intern
May - August 2019 • Mountain View, CA
What I liked
Lots of interns to work with. Got to be a a group lead which was pretty nice.
What I wish was different
I wish I had more options for selecting a project.
Advice
Get to know the other interns.
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Programming Intern
June - August 2019 • Mountain View, CA
What I liked
Coworkers were very friendly and helpful, the site itself was incredible to work at, and the work was engaging and difficult but manageable.
What I wish was different
The living space was pretty old and cramped. From what I understand it was refurbished barracks, so it's understandable, but it still wasn't very comfortable. A pretty minor gripe about the experience though, all things considered.
Advice
Make connections and contacts that will last after the internship. Absolutely critical.
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Space biosciences research intern
June - September 2019 • Mountain View, CA
What I liked
I loved the intense intellectual atmosphere of doing research at NASA
What I wish was different
I wish I had been more comfortable taking a lead on more aspects of the project I was working on
Advice
It’s a remarkable opportunity and I loved going to work every day
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Engineering Consultant
June - August 2019 • Mountain View, CA
What I liked
I enjoyed being able to work beside and learn from so many engineers.
What I wish was different
I wish I had had more time to do all the experimentation I wanted.
Advice
This was a 10-week internship, and it felt like I had more time than I did. I wish I had operated like I had no time from Day 1.
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Engineering Intern
August 2019 • Mountain View, CA
What I liked
I was not only immersed in the NASA culture, but also immersed to a large technical research team where everyone's roles and abilities were tested everyday. Being put into an environment of very qualified professionals not only made me present the best of my skills but also allowed me to learn from those who have decades of experience, something that cannot be taught in a class. So, obtaining information that has been learned and adjusted year after year is a key feature of my experience and I know it will be useful no matter the job position that I obtain and will be very grateful for the ability to learn from such amazing people.
What I wish was different
I wish the job location was a bit closer to my home, but there was nothing in the experience or projects that I would change. It was an amazing introduction to the work culture at NASA and through next summer I hope that I continue to learn about the research procedure, job opportunities, and continue to grow my relationships with my coworkers.
Advice
As with any technical internship, job, freelance, or opportunity; do not be afraid to ask questions. The more questions you ask the more you can learn about the job, opportunities, and present yourself as someone who values the opportunity to work and learn for the company or administration. This will allow you to build positive relationships with professionals and companies.
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Intelligent Robotics Intern
June - August 2019 • Mountain View, CA
What I liked
I loved the cool work that was happening at NASA, being able to see all the projects was incredible. I also loved my own autonomy within my project!
What I wish was different
I wish I had a bit more guidance.
Advice
NASA is a pretty good place to work if you care about pursuing the projects NASA is exploring, but the pay is definitely not comparable.
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Astrochemistry Research Intern
June - August 2017 • Mountain View, CA
What I liked
I really enjoyed the research group I worked with (Space Science and Astrobiology, Astrophysics Branch, Astrochemistry Group). My project was absolutely fascinating and I appreciated the enthusiasm and interest of all the other scientists in my group.
What I wish was different
Transportation in the area is inconvenient at best, especially for getting groceries, so I wish I didn't have to spend so much money on ubers.
Advice
Connect with as many people as you can, especially mentors, other people in your department, and fellow interns. All the people are very dedicated to their job and are more than willing to explain their work to interested students.
