Elena Fermin...
Who I Am My name is Elena Fermin and I attend the University of Oklahoma (GO SOONERS!).
My major is Finance. Yes there are jobs other than scientist and engineers
at NASA! At OU, I a member of Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority, participate
in the Diversity and Community Enrichment Program, and volunteer quite a
bit in everything I can.
Coming to NASA has been one of the best decisions I have made so far. The experience
has been great, and I don’t regret a single moment.
What I do at NASA
I am currently on my second tour in the Projects Procurements
Office. I am a Contract Specialist. I process purchase orders, grants, etc
for the engineering divisions (EG, DA, etc). It feels great to be back.
During my first tour, I worked in the Space and Life Sciences
division as a Budget Analyst. I was basically in charge of analyzing and
tracking budget data. I assisted with the Program Operating Plan for 2006-2011.
I did so many other projects you would be reading this for a while if I
wrote them all down.
 |
Working at NASA you learn a new
form of accounting. The way money is handled here is completely
different from industry and completely different from what
you learn in school. Coming to work at NASA as a Finance
major thinking you have learned so much in school, you realize
that you can apply only some of what you learned and the
rest you learn only by experience.
Working for NASA has been an experience of a lifetime!
While at NASA, coops have the opportunity to go on tours and
see the Historic Mission Control Center, (and be inside - not
just behind the glass). I went to see the Advanced Space Propulsion
Laboratory and much, much more. Working here you learn so much
about space it is unbelievable, especially if you are a business
major. There are lectures you can attend and meet really cool
people, and learn quite a bit. During my first tour, I had
the opportunity to go with other co-ops to Flight Director
Paul Dye’s house and see the airplane he is building;
it was an exciting opportunity. I am pleased to say that he
has completed his plane and has had it certified.
|
Oppurtunities
outside of work:
There are plenty of activities to be involved with outside
of work. Many of the co-ops participate in various activities
that range from scuba diving, laser tag, to salsa dancing
and among other activities. I had the opportunity to go skydiving.
I have always wanted to do it, and I built up the courage
to skydive. It was an awesome experience. There are also
sports you can get involved with. I play soccer with the
coops. If you are a more laid back person that is ok as well.
If you want to continue with school while you are a co-op
you can do that here also. If you are not much of a party
animal and would rather volunteer your time there are many
activities to volunteer in such as Open House, Engineering
Expo, Houston Rodeo and a whole lot more. There is so much
to do, you just can’t get bored. |
|
Coming to NASA has been one of the highlights
of my life and I have enjoyed every bit of it. If you have any
questions, don’t hesitate to email me at Elena_f@ou.edu or
at Elena.fermin-1@nasa.gov. I am always willing to answer any questions
you may have in order for you to make a wise decision. Good luck!
|
