AboutPaul Soderman Expertise Aeronautics, Fluid Mechanics, Aeroacoustics, Noise Control, Muffler Design, Wind Tunnel Research.... I know nothing about India - do not ask about schools, jobs, application requirements, career choices, etc. for India. Please, no text message verbiage; I prefer full words in full sentences. Thanks.
Experience 37+ years with NASA as Aeronautical Engineer in research lab (retired). Specialty in aerodynamics, aeroacoustics and wind tunnel research. Publications 95+ technical papers and book chapters. Education/Credentials: BS/MS Aero Engineering - U. of Washington. Graduate studies - Stanford U. Awards and Honors AIAA Associate Fellow (American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics
Expert: Paul Soderman Date: 4/5/2008 Subject: Colleges and becoming an astronaut
Question I have been accepted to Embry Riddle- Daytona for engineering and to Purdue but I could not get into the engineering program there. So I am planning on transferring into engineering later. My first question is, if I have a 3.2 in high school, would it be hard to get into the engineering program in Purdue if I could maintain that GPA?
Also, my goal is to become an astronaut, I was just wondering if you could give me some information on what I have to do through out college and after college to become an astronaut. Thank You
Answer Corey
Only Purdue can answer your first question. Once you get established in school, talk to one of the engineering school chairmen to see what they think your odds are.
As for becoming an astronaut, there is no clear path because many, many people apply but only a few are chosen. You basically have to have excellent grades and an advanced degree in a subject area that NASA likes such as aeronautics or physics, be in excellent physical shape, and have an appropriate skill such as military pilot training or research experience. Check the NASA main website for requirements and application procedure.
Paul
