Higher Orbits has blessed me with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity this month and I’ll describe it in three words: Space, Italy, and Queso!
Howdy, y’all! My name is Brianna Ortiz. I am a freshman engineering student at Texas A&M through the Texas A&M Engineering Academy at Midland College.
Back in early August the best Space Mom ever, aka the phenomenal Michelle Lucas, invited me to embark on the journey to the International Astronautics Congress Convention in Milan, Italy, alongside the stellar Miss Sophia Crowder.
I am ecstatic about this trip, the IAC is one of the coolest things I’ve ever seen; astronauts, specialists, and companies from around the world who are all interested in space! If I could have signed up faster I would have.
Along with being in the gorgeous city of Milan, Italy, this opportunity is a dream come true. For this event, I am most excited to meet and observe others from all over the world who have a passion for astronautics and space. I can’t wait to see all the companies and exhibits that are offered. In addition to being in the beautiful country of Italy, I’m ecstatic to dress up fashionably, try all the amazing food, and see the lush scenery with the
phenomenal architecture of the city!
Now what does queso have to do with Space and Italy? Everything! I found out I was eligible to go to the IAC in a Mexican restaurant while munching on some amazing chips and queso with Space Mom and Astronaut Tony Antonelli! Now and forever I’ll associate good queso with the IAC and Italy.
I am over the moon to meet others from around the world who are established in the space community, there’s so much to learn! Catch y’all in Italy, Ciao!
Written by Brianna Ortiz
(Brianna is a Go For Launch! Midland student and one of 5 Americans to attend the
International Science School with Higher Orbits in 2023)
