Niya Hope-Glenn calls astronaut Jeanette Epps on the ISS

First-year SM student Niya Hope-Glenn (APG) had the extraordinary opportunity to speak with NASA astronaut Jeanette Epps during one of her final days aboard the International Space Station. Joined by aerospace professionals, colleagues, and Epps’ partner Bryan Krekel, the conversation covered a range of topics, including the critical challenges of sustaining human health in space’s extreme environment. Epps is scheduled to return to Earth this month after a seven-month stay in space. 

Epps used the face-to-face time to lead a discussion on astronautics research, and lessons she learned throughout her career with the group. “One of her core values she expressed to us is justice–to always fight for what’s right.” says Hope-Glenn. 

“The call was super transformative,” says Hope-Glenn. “I thoroughly enjoyed hearing from Dr. Epps firsthand about how to stay grounded in your values and how building resilience is a process. She provided us with positive affirmations useful for combating imposter syndrome.” Hope-Glenn also says that the call inspired her to incorporate bioastronautics into her graduate research. “She told us: “Everything’s hard until you learn.”

Hope-Glenn extends a special thank you to her career mentor, Christopher Huie-Spence, or “Chuie,” for inviting her to the call!