Expert: Paul Soderman - 5/7/2009

Question
Hello sir,
         I am from India. I have been selected into IIT (Indian Institute of Technology) under aerospace engineering. My ambition in life is to take PhD in aerospace engineering. After my PhD, its my dream to work as an aerospace engineer for NASA. What should I do then after completing my M.Tech (master of technology degree) and PhD?

Answer
A PhD might open many doors for you.  You could teach, do research or work in industry.  But NASA only hires U.S. citizens and that is a hard road.  If you developed an expertise in some special technology along the way you might be able to work for NASA as a contractor.  Maybe. But I would not worry about this - get that education.  Who knows what the world will be like in 6 - 8 years.  Maybe you will decide to work on green energy or carbon capture.  Time will tell.  Good luck.
Paul