From a young age, I knew that space was my destiny. As a child, when asked about my dream job, it was always either Actress or Astronaut. I opted for the latter. My father and I would often spend nights outside, as we share the same love for space. The night sky still gives me the same feeling of inspiration and destiny as it did when I was a kid. Pursuing a career in space, and actually visiting it has always been my greatest dream, and it feels truly surreal that it is becoming a reality.

I started this foundation with the hope of inspiring young girls who, like me, struggled with confidence to pursue opportunities in the space industry, and to seek support when needed. Math has always been a challenge for me, and it still is. I have to work harder than the average student to grasp mathematical concepts, but I keep trying because it is what I love. One crucial lesson I’ve learned from the incredible women I’ve interviewed is that you don’t need to be the best in the class; if you have passion and motivation, success will follow.

When I entered college, I felt extremely out of my league among classmates who were already ages ahead of me in their studies. In my astronomy classes and programs, I have often encountered a superiority complex from male classmates who haven’t acknowledged my intelligence or abilities. I gave up and accepted that my love for astronomy would have to remain a hobby because I was never going to be a rocket scientist. However, during my sophomore year, I realized that while I excelled in humanities, they didn’t fulfill me. I decided to give astronomy another chance and found my niche in astrophotography. I even got accepted into a radio astronomy program at the Green Bank Observatory. Despite having to work twice as hard as my fellow classmates, I feel invigorated and know that this is where I am meant to be. I know that the road ahead of me will be hard, but I am confident I can succeed. The doubt and ignorance I encounter only fuel my determination to succeed.

My primary goal is to communicate to young girls that space IS achievable. Your path might be different from everyone else’s, but that does not mean it is wrong. Many of the people I’ve interviewed found themselves in the industry by chance. Most importantly, regardless of who you are or what your strengths and weaknesses may be, you can succeed in this field because there is no one like you.

I started this foundation and am venturing into space not for myself, but for all of you. For the girls who doubt themselves, who feel there is no path for them, who think they could never measure up

You are more than enough, and will change the world.

Best wishes,

Karsen Kitchen