Mercer Times

Matthew Kaufman, a senior journalism major at The College of New Jersey (TCNJ), spent his summer interning at NASA's Goddard Space Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. The 10-week program allowed him to combine his interests in science and writing by interviewing leading scientists and contributing articles to NASA's website.

During the internship, which ran from June through early August, Kaufman focused on science communication. He gained insight into various smaller missions undertaken by NASA, including satellite projects and Earth science initiatives related to climate change. "What surprised me the most is the range of NASA’s ongoing smaller missions, such as satellite missions and Earth science projects related to climate change," Kaufman noted.

Kaufman's responsibilities included writing technology-centered stories for publication on NASA.gov. In one instance, he interviewed a researcher working on a machine-learning algorithm designed to simplify complex data for quicker decision-making by scientists. Another assignment involved discussions with researchers on navigation technology that could have significant implications for space exploration and other fields.

Reflecting on his experience, Kaufman stated, "I really started to understand the importance of science and technology communication during my internship. You have to be able to explain complicated topics in a simple way to convince people why it matters."

He attributed much of his success during the internship to his education at TCNJ. His coursework and role as editor-in-chief of The Signal provided him with essential skills in story development and interviewing—skills that were daunting when he was a freshman. "The experience I had in my classes and as editor-in-chief of The Signal, where I manage 12 editors and 20 to 30 writers, helped me gain skills to work in a professional newsroom," said Kaufman.

The internship concluded with an opportunity for Kaufman and other interns to visit NASA's headquarters in Washington, D.C., where they met with the agency's chief scientist.