T-Minus Space Daily: Mentorship with the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation

Released April 26, 2025 | Host: Maria Varmazes | Guests: Former NASA Astronaut Chris Ferguson and Astronaut Scholarship Foundation (ASF) Mentee Vikas Patel

Introduction

In this insightful episode of T-Minus Space Daily, hosted by Maria Varmazes, the spotlight shines on the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation (ASF), a pivotal organization fostering the next generation of space leaders. The discussion delves into the profound impact of mentorship provided by ASF, featuring Chris Ferguson, a retired Boeing executive and former NASA astronaut, alongside his mentee, Vikas Patel, an aspiring aerospace engineer. Together, they explore the essence of mentorship, the journey of becoming an astronaut, and the invaluable network ASF cultivates among its scholars.

Meet the Guests

Maria Varmazes introduces the episode by highlighting the intimidating yet rewarding path to an astronaut career. She welcomes her guests:

• Chris Ferguson: A retired Boeing executive with a diverse career spanning NASA astronautics and naval aviation. Currently involved with ASF, Chris emphasizes his commitment to mentoring future space pioneers.

  “I think I have learned more from them than they have learned from me,” (02:57) Chris reflects on his mentorship experience, underscoring the reciprocal nature of learning in mentorship.

• Vikas Patel: A recent graduate from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, studying aerospace engineering, and an incoming graduate student at Stanford. Vikas shares his enthusiasm for mentoring and his aspirations in the field.

  “It's been fantastic to not only talk about my interests, his interests, but we found a lot in common as well,” (04:14) Vikas describes his positive mentorship experience with Chris.

The Astronaut Scholarship Foundation (ASF): An Overview

Maria provides a comprehensive background on ASF, established in 1984 by six Mercury 7 astronauts. The foundation aims to encourage university students pursuing scientific excellence by offering one of the nation's largest merit-based scholarships for undergraduate STEM juniors and seniors. ASF fosters lifelong relationships between scholars—referred to as astronaut scholars—and mentors, facilitating professional and personal development alongside networking opportunities with seasoned astronauts.

Chris Ferguson’s Journey with ASF

Chris Ferguson shares how ASF became an integral part of his life:

“ASF found me. I knew as an active astronaut that there was an entity out there that worked with young men and women to provide scholarships that were merit-based in the fields of STEM,” (05:11) Chris recounts his introduction to ASF, highlighting the organization’s alignment with his values.

He elaborates on his role within ASF:

“I've taken on mentorship and a little bit more of an active role in promoting ASF, making sure that our sponsors and donors realize the value of these merit-based scholarships,” (05:45) stressing his dedication to advancing ASF’s mission.

Chris also touches upon the collaborative nature of his mentorship with Vikas:

“Vikas was my second of three mentees, and we had a lot of shared interests,” (06:15) indicating the personal connections that strengthen the mentor-mentee relationship.

Vikas Patel’s Path to ASF and Beyond

Vikas Patel narrates his discovery and involvement with ASF:

“When I was in high school, I was looking for ways to get funding for my undergrad, get scholarships. And so I just happened to search up scholarship, astronaut, that combination of words,” (07:56) Vikas explains how he stumbled upon ASF, igniting his passion for space and aerospace engineering.

He details his academic and professional trajectory:

“I'm at an internship kind of between my undergrad and before grad school with NASA working on some lunar terrain navigation,” (15:40) revealing his hands-on experience and dedication to contributing to NASA’s missions.

Vikas emphasizes the importance of community among ASF scholars:

“These are people you stay in contact with all the time… they're people you want to surround yourself with,” (16:35) highlighting the enduring bonds and collaborative spirit fostered by ASF.

The Dynamics of Mentorship

Maria probes into the mentor-mentee relationship, eliciting profound insights from both guests.

Vikas describes the fluid and conversational nature of his mentorship with Chris:

“It's kind of just a communication, a conversation between two people,” (09:28) Vikas notes the organic and flexible structure of their interactions, contrasting it with rigid professional mentorships.

Chris shares the mutual benefits derived from mentoring scholars:

“Just reading up on their individual backgrounds and having to intelligently ask questions of these outstanding individuals, I learned so much,” (12:14) Chris reflects on how mentoring has expanded his understanding of current technological advancements and future space exploration endeavors.

He also touches upon the reciprocal learning experience:

“It's a bit of a window into the future because these young men and women are going to go on to really be leaders,” (13:00) indicating that mentoring scholars keeps him connected to emerging trends and innovations.

Vikas adds a personal anecdote illustrating the cross-generational exchange of knowledge:

“One funny conversation we had… was he talking about how on his in-flight computer he got live weather information and live radar. It makes me appreciate a lot more about… what he was out there flying F14s,” (14:30) showcasing the blend of past experiences and present technologies discussed within the mentorship.

Networking and Community Among Scholars

Vikas highlights the robust network ASF fosters among its scholars:

“We talk all the time. Me and Asa, Chris's other mentee, we talked the other day about grad school,” (16:35) illustrating the continual support and collaboration among peers within the ASF community.

He underscores the value of these connections in professional growth and personal support:

“These type of people… have such amazing backgrounds, such amazing skills, and are genuinely good people. They're people you want to surround yourself with,” (16:45) emphasizing the enriching environment ASF creates for its scholars.

Advice for Aspiring Mentors and Mentees

In concluding remarks, both Chris and Vikas offer valuable advice for those considering mentorship roles or seeking mentorship through ASF.

Chris advocates for the unique benefits of ASF:

“ASF really is a wonderful organization because it provides not only these peer relationships, but it also keeps the scholars very close after they've gone on to their professional careers,” (18:32) highlighting the sustained support and networking opportunities ASF affords both mentors and mentees.

He compares ASF favorably against similar organizations:

“There are other parallel types of organizations out there, like the Goldwater Scholarship Organization, but I don't think another entity provides this sort of mentor, mentee and networking opportunity that ASF provides,” (18:50) emphasizing ASF’s distinctive value.

Vikas encourages prospective scholars to seize the opportunity:

“If anyone ever says, should I apply? The answer is obviously yes, because getting to be a part of this community and getting to have these connections is just fantastic,” (17:28) passionately recommending ASF as a transformative platform for aspiring space professionals.

He emphasizes the confidence and guidance gained through ASF:

“Surrounding yourself with the right people... gives you a little confidence, if nothing else, that no matter where you go, you'll end up doing the right thing,” (20:05) reinforcing the psychological and professional support ASF provides.

Final Thoughts

The episode culminates with both guests reflecting on the symbiotic nature of mentorship within ASF. Chris expresses pride in nurturing future leaders who are at the forefront of space exploration and technological innovation. Vikas conveys gratitude for the guidance and network ASF has provided, underscoring its pivotal role in shaping his academic and professional journey.

Maria wraps up by emphasizing the enduring value of such mentorship programs in advancing the global space industry's future, leaving listeners with a profound appreciation for organizations like ASF that cultivate excellence and collaboration among emerging space professionals.

Key Takeaways

• ASF’s Mission: To support and mentor undergraduate STEM students through scholarships, fostering a community of future space leaders.

• Mentorship Benefits: Both mentors and mentees gain valuable insights, with mentors staying connected to cutting-edge advancements and mentees receiving guidance and networking opportunities.

• Community and Networking: ASF creates a robust network among scholars, facilitating ongoing collaboration and support.

• Advice for Aspiring Scholars: Apply to ASF to benefit from its extensive support system, mentorship, and unparalleled networking opportunities.

This episode of T-Minus Space Daily offers a compelling look into the transformative power of mentorship within the aerospace community, showcasing how the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation is instrumental in shaping the trajectories of future space pioneers.