Phares Carroll

I was born and raised in Mobile, AL…the birthplace of Mardi Gras. I am a Mechanical Engineering major from Georgia Tech in Atlanta, GA. However, ironically enough, I am a member of AIAA. I may go to Tech, but I am an avid Alabama fan. My favorite thing to do is to work on / look at classic cars-American for the most part unless we are talking about a Maserati or an Aston Martin.

Myself and Rachel Edgerly at an Astros Game

The Co-Op Program at Georgia Tech is huge in the Engineering Department. They really push all undergraduates to apply for either an internship or a co-op. I always knew that I wanted to co-op, and the job I really wanted was NASA JSC. But, the spots are so competitive that I was almost positive that I did not have a chance of getting a slot. I went to my advisor and she said that Johnson was only granting 12 people interviews, so I should apply to other places because my chances of getting one were next to non-existent. I almost did not even apply for the job, but at the last minute I decided that I would give it a go. Shockingly enough, I got an interview slot and, then, a few weeks later, I got the call that I had an offer for Fall 2006. I took it in a heartbeat. So, that was how I got to Houston. Anyway- never let anyone keep you for going for something that you want- the worst that can happen is you prove them right.

Work Experience:

Myself and Andrew strategizing.

This is my first of 5 tours (yes, that is correct- 5 tours) here at JSC. I am currently in EC7- Crew and Thermal Systems Division, EVA Tools Branch. The job was pretty intimidating at first, but I am learning a lot about engineering that cannot be learned in a classroom. I am designing and building a new tool for use when on EVA’s and also trying to modify some existing ones. So, all in all the position is challenging and fun.

Outside the Office:

Myself, Rachel Edgerly, and Christie Carlile in NYC for Columbus Day.

Co-oping is not all about the work- you get a lot of time to play around too. You meet new people, all who have effectively the same long term goals as you, and the friendships you make are amazing.

Right now, I am playing on the co-op soccer team. We are not that great but we have a blast while losing. The best thing about being a co-op is the whole no homework / studying thing.

It is awesome when you can come home after work and do whatever you want to do. And, your weekends are finally yours again- not your homework’s.