YouAlberta
As a material science engineering student, I often find myself interested in space structures and materials. Wanting to be among the stars since a young age, I sought to expand my knowledge in space technology, space missions and being an astronaut. Beyond interest in space, I am also passionate about creative arts, fabrication and textiles, as well as travelling. I have been painting and sewing since a very young age. I wanted to be a fashion designer for a very long time, but at the same time, I also took a great interest in science especially, astronomy and planetary science. After watching the movie Interstellar, I was convinced I am meant to be in space! Now I am on my journey of becoming a space materials scientist-engineer and an astronaut.
As a STEAM (science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics) enthusiast, I was so excited to start my first year in the Faculty of Engineering. But soon excitement changed to fear of failing, as I was not achieving the highest grades in my first year. I did not know how to study or what to prioritize between assignments, lab reports and personal health. I learned over time, and after going through a tough year academically and mentally. I often doubted myself, questioning my ability in my first year. Everyone seemed to know what they were doing, like they could handle a heavy course load with extracurricular activities. In my second year, I decided to decrease my course load and employ different study techniques that worked for me. I started to see results and my academic standing improved, eventually allowing me to receive admission in the Materials Engineering (MAT E) Co-op program. My MAT E courses made me believe I was meant to be here. I really enjoyed them! After finding the right balance between school and life, I started to explore space engineering student groups. I joined the Aero Heavy Lift Group, Canadian Aeronautics and Space Institute UAlberta Chapter, Engineering Student Society, AlbertaSat and Microgravity Experiment Modulus Establishment (MEMEs) over the course of my degree. I met so many amazing people and learned about their experiences as a student in the aerospace industry. I was introduced to many opportunities, including conferences and competitions. Currently, as one of the executive members of MEMEs, we are competing in the Canadian Reduced Gravity Experiment to understand the viability of Binder Jetting Additive Manufacturing in Microgravity.
One of the opportunities I have had for experiential learning is participating in Project PoSSUM under the International Institute of Astronautical Sciences (IIAS). This program provides students with the opportunity for professional development, curriculum learning and hands-on operations and training. I learned about the scientist-astronaut program, from alumna Dr. Shawna Pandya when she was a guest speaker at U of A. I applied hoping to receive astronaut training, but to my surprise I learned so much more. In this five day intensive program, I learned about the mesosphere and lower thermosphere environment, spaceflight simulation and operations and spacesuit operations–including don, doff, and pressure regulation. I also received the chance to perform high gravity and zero gravity aerobatic flight and learned about high-g mitigation methods on the body. We were introduced to bioastronautics, life support systems and science communication. The course was focused on noctilucent cloud research in the mesosphere and astronautic training required to perform this research, however, an essential part of it was also scientist-citizen training. Scientist-citizen training entails advocating for Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) through stewardship, inclusivity and diversity. I was among an international community of fellow space enthusiasts who had such great experiences to share and this made me realize the importance of unity and collaboration for space exploration. "Space for all" is a phrase Project POSSUM enforces, and through this international POSSUM community I truly felt the meaning of that. This program not only allowed me to meet my amazing crewmates and aerospace professionals that shared their network with me, but also allowed me to believe there are so many opportunities out there. My peers shared many more space program opportunities with me, my instructors discussed more astronaut training course opportunities with me and overall, I gained so much inspiration and excitement for my future in space after attending this program.
My goal of becoming a space materials scientist-engineer and an astronaut is important not only for myself but also for all the women that look like me. Women from South Asian cultures are expected to follow social norms that are different from men, such as being an obedient daughter, helping with house chores and getting married by a certain age. It is my hope that through my journey I can inspire all women, especially from my culture, to dream big and persevere against social norms. As I progress through my life, I am realizing that the only limitations are the ones you put on yourself.
About Aleeza
Aleeza Batool is a fifth-year Materials Engineering co-op student in the Faculty of Engineering.