A Space Cadet!

I have always wanted to attend Space Camp since I was a kid. I have watched all of the Apollo movies and documentaries, and I'm following the upcoming Artemis launch closely...but it has become more and more unlikely that I will ever attend - until now.

Over the Thanksgiving break, I applied for space camp at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama.  A few weeks ago, I heard from the folks in charge that they liked my  application enough to consider me for something more - something different (They loved my essay and application.). 

​Enter:  the Astronaut Al Worden Endeavour Scholarship.  Would I be interested?  Yes. 

There was a half-hour virtual interview a few weeks and then a wait. After a three-day holiday weekend passed, an email arrived to reveal the decision.

It was so lovely to talk with you last week. It's very clear from your application and interview that you are a space junky! In the best way! 

We interviewed a number of teachers and agreed that your passion for Space Camp shined. We are happy to extend you an Endeavour Scholarship to lead Mission Team USA! We see a great balance of academic strength, ability to lead, and pragmatic skills in caring for students that will be valuable for our mission of uniting students in a love for STEM...

​Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. Congratulations!

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What does it mean?  I am headed to Dallas for three days in March for the initial ceremony  and to receive my flight jacket, and then, in July, I'm off to Huntsville for a week, where I will not only attend Space Camp, but I will also be a chaperone for the U.S.A. team of elite high school students.  Also attending will be students and chaperones from five other nations.

Needless to say, I am ecstatic, and and wondering:  How did I get here?​  I'm going to finally get that teenage wish.

adapted from The Hoggatteer Experience (my husband's website)