With AIAA SciTech 2026 approaching, I reflect on my journey as a student in aerospace engineering. I feel compelled to acknowledge the impetus that gave me the courage to pursue aerospace engineering both academically and as a career: Go for Launch and Higher Orbits.
In 2017, in Deerfield, Illinois, I walked into my first Go for Launch Event, not expecting much more than a generic STEM camp, similar to the labs and assemblies I had attended throughout school. That expectation could not have been further from the truth. When I walked out that first day, I had gained a different appreciation for what it meant to be a scientist, engineer, astronaut, artist, teacher, and communicator.
In 2019, I had the opportunity to witness the entire research design process, from idea generation to proposal writing, to manufacturing, and to launch, when the experiment I designed was selected to be conducted autonomously aboard the International Space Station.
Beyond that, Higher Orbits has been a constant presence in my path. I attended the International Astronautical Congress in Washington, D.C., traveled to Sydney, Australia for the Harry Messel International Science School, volunteered at two golf outings, attended two AIAA conferences, and became a part of the Stars in Orbits group.
I am currently an M.S. student in aerospace engineering with a focus in dynamics and control at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, and I graduated with a B.S. in aerospace engineering (astronautics) in May this year. Pursuing this journey has been deeply challenging. I often caught myself considering whether it would be worth it. Sometimes from the outside, it can seem others follow more linear paths. For me, at least, that was not always the case. Struggle is often invisible unless we share it with others, and I am proud to continue overcoming my own hurdles and so thankful I get to remain a part of Higher Orbits.
I can think back to the moment the Antares rocket lifted off from Wallops Island, Virginia. In the midst of struggle, I am able to look back and know that I have a community that has always believed in me and continues to be an invaluable source of support.
This year at SciTech, I am particularly excited to support my peers and hear them present their own research. I am excited to meet more students who find themselves in the same space as I am and to network with others to find where I fit within the aerospace community!
Written By Stellar Student Leia Spaniak
