Karen Yuen
Applied Science System Engineer - NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory
I am originally from Kowloon, Hong Kong, and moved to Apple Valley, Minnesota, when I was 8 1/2 years old. I still consider myself from the Midwest.
I remember learning English and hearing the expression, "Well, I am not a rocket scientist!" and I wondered, "What is a rocket scientist?" A lot of the time, they didn't know what to do with me in school, and they just asked me to go to the library to improve my reading skills. So I read what I could find about space.
I am an organic chemist who left research, who then worked as a category analyst for a food broker and Tropicana. I think the space program is the only place for people with funky backgrounds! There is definitely not a "one size fits all."
My grandma. She always believed in me and encouraged me in my education.
After a talk I gave locally, I got a letter from a student who told me that he knew what he wanted to do when he grew up -- he wanted to be a NASA engineer and that I had inspired him. I was so touched that I was shaking while reading the letter.
I say go for it. Never lose your curiosity and desire to learn more, I believe that it makes you better at your job. Public engagement is very important, so know what you are talking about. And it is fun -- think what would you want others to know more about and then go do it.
I believe you only live once and should live it fully. I love being outside and anything outdoors would be great. I like to fly helicopters and I just got PADI certified for diving! But when I am indoors, I always curl up with a book or I am in the kitchen cooking. I love cooking for others!
Don't be afraid of math and science courses, and ask the questions -- more than likely, others don't know and are afraid to ask themselves. I was a late bloomer, I never liked math until I got to calculus and then the light bulb moment happened. It has been that way ever since.
Planetary science is a global profession.