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Alyssa Lee
Social Media Specialist for the Space Launch System Program at NASA
Alyssa Lee turned a childhood passion for astronomy and a college education in communications into her dream career at NASA. While pursuing a bachelor’s degree in communications and a master’s degree in strategic communication and leadership at the University of West Florida, Lee got her foot in the door as an intern for NASA. Today, she works on the communications team for the Space Launch System team.
Did you imagine your communication degrees and passion for science would merge?
When I was younger I loved astronomy but knew I would not excel in a science degree in school. I went into communications and absolutely loved it, and never imagined the two would merge one day. When searching for an internship, I landed on NASA, where my two passions collided. I knew from that moment that I wanted to continue to pursue a career in the space industry.
What advice do you have for other communications graduates seeking a job in the STEM field?
My advice to other communication graduates is to not hold back. NASA seemed like an impossible dream to me but I put myself out there and my dreams came true. The same could be said for any other field. Don't ever feel like anything is out of reach. For those interested in STEM fields in particular, my best advice is to stay in the know. Constantly be up to date on current news in that field and reading technical journal articles. The hardest part about STEM Communications is being knowledgeable on the topic. You have to be able to translate really technical information to the public in a fun and comprehensive way. Therefore, you as a communications expert need to be knowledgeable about many different topics.
How did UWF prepare you for this position?
My classes and professors at UWF helped me tremendously with my current position. From learning AP Style with Mr. Scott to social media campaigns with Dr. Riddell. However, the love and support from my professors and classmates was what helped me the most in my journey. My professors were so kind in sending in recommendation letters for me, making my semesters flexible so I could still attend my internships, and just having rant sessions after class to deal with the stress. UWF's faculty truly care so much about their students. To this day I still get emails and phone calls from my professors asking how I am doing. My biggest wish for myself is that I can one day be a mentor to someone else like they have been to me.