NASA United Space School. Curro’s Grantleigh School in Richards Bay, KwaZulu Natal, learner is shooting for the stars! The school is over the moon with excitement. One of their brightest stars, Willemien KotzĂ©, has been selected to represent South Africa at the NASA United Space School (USS) in Atlanta, USA.
The spirited 17-year-old from Mtunzini, has triumphed over a rigorous selection process. The process evaluated her knowledge, skills, and compatibility with her team partner from another school. The assessments included in-depth assignments. It covered fascinating topics like orbital mechanics, space law, recent launches, engines, habit building, and the intricacies of spacesuit functionality. Her outstanding performance and unwavering dedication have secured her a place among an elite group of students. The group is traveling to the United States of America.
Willemien and the other SA learner will now embark on their extraordinary journey today Friday, 14 July, bound for Houston. They will be accompanied by a representative of the programme. Over the course of 15 captivating days from Sunday, 16 July, the duo will be joined by equally talented learners. They are from 24 countries across the world and will meet at the prestigious NASA United Space School.
Upon arrival, they will have the opportunity to share their experiences through interviews before being assigned to various teams. In preparation for this exceptional adventure, Willemien will be presented with a NASA uniform. That includes a distinctive team shirt, formal long pants, and non-branded sneakers. This symbol of membership in the esteemed NASA United Space School will serve as a constant reminder of her achievements as well as the bright future that lies ahead.
Incredible achievement
Her incredible achievement highlights Curro’s commitment to nurturing talent that dares to reach for the stars whilst positioning itself as a global centre of excellence in education. Executive Head of Curro’s Grantleigh School, Dirk van Zyl, expressed his immense pride in Willemien’s accomplishment, stating, “as a school, we are also incredibly proud of Willemien for always seizing the opportunities that come her way and excelling in this intense selection process. We hope that this once in a lifetime experience broadens her horizons and also equips her to continue pursuing her dreams relentlessly. Curro Grantleigh cannot wait to witness her remarkable achievements that she will accomplish during the remainder of her time with us at Grantleigh,” he concluded.
We had an opportunity to ask Willemien a few questions
- How did you get selected to participate in the NASA United Space School?
I heard about the NASA Space Program through family friends. Their niece Julia Steenkamp, participated in the program last year, and she sent me the information. To apply for this program, I had to write a motivational letter about myself, describing my hobbies and my aspirations. I also attached my school report.
- Have you travelled overseas before and how do you feel about the trip?
My family and I recently travelled to the Netherlands and Portugal. That was the first time I had been overseas. Luckily, while we were on this trip, my mum taught me what to look out for in the airports, so I feel a bit more confident in navigating my travels. Being far from my family for two weeks makes me a bit anxious, but overall, I am extremely excited about the trip. I am looking forward to the entire learning experience, as well as the opportunity to go to the States and meet all the other learners from various countries.
3. What are you hoping to learn at the NASA United Space School?
I am hoping to learn more about the science of space: how all the planets, satellites, rockets and astronauts function, operate and launch into space. We had to do multiple assignments over the weeks leading up to the trip and this exposed us to various aspects of space science. The detail behind the development of rocket engines, orbital mechanics, and the development of the spacesuit were fascinating. I am hoping to learn even more about space exploration and technology. I am also hoping to learn more about all the different cultures of the other learners.
- Do you have aspirations of studying astronomy or becoming an astronaut, if so can you explain why?
Since primary school, I have always wanted to become an astronaut. When I did some research about possible careers, and especially after doing these research assignments, it was very evident that there are so many career opportunities involving space. I am still uncertain about my future occupation, but I know beyond doubt that my end goal is becoming an astronaut.
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