Art, Science, and Space Diplomacy
What does it take to go from teaching middle school to leading digital efforts for the Artemis missions at NASA? And how can others access similar opportunities in the federal government?
In honor of Space Diplomacy Week, Thalia Patrinos - a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant (ETA) ExchangeAlumni and Communications Strategist contractor at NASA headquarters - joined us on MentorTalks to discuss using art, science, and space to connect with millions of people.
While on her Fulbright ETA, Thalia taught English to students in Gqeberha, South Africa. It was this experience, along with her time subsequently teaching math and science in middle school in Philadelphia, she says, that helped her succeed in her current career.
Thalia has been able to apply these skills in her role as a contractor at NASA, creating digital messaging for a global audience. “We tell ourselves that we have to explain it at an eighth grade level – because a lot of people don't have a background in science or math,” Thalia explains.
In landing a job with the federal government, Thalia also shared why contracting can be a great way to get your foot in the door. “If you aren't finding any civil servant positions, look for the contractor positions – there are a lot of different opportunities available,” she says.
Thalia’s experience is a true testament of this – in her current role as a contractor, she leads numerous digital campaigns at NASA, including overseeing the Faces of NASA photo series and co-leading audio strategy for the agency.
Interested in exploring the overlap between science and art, how NASA connects with audiences, getting a job in the federal government, and learning a fun fact or two about South Africa?
Watch this episode above or on Facebook @InternationalExchangeAlumni!