On Thursday, January 14, Pre-Graduate and Pre-Professional Advising (PGPP), a unit under Academic Success and Advising (ASA), hosted an event to celebrate two exceptional students who were recently awarded the prestigious Astronaut Scholarship. Jim James (CS) and Velin Kojouharov (ME) were Georgia Tech’s 2023-24 recipients of the award. The ceremony not only recognized the outstanding achievements of the recipients but also featured inspiring remarks by the distinguished retired NASA astronaut, Frank Culbertson.

The Astronaut Scholarship is awarded to students who have demonstrated exceptional prowess in the fields of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM). These scholars exemplify the qualities that the scholarship seeks to promote innovation, leadership, and a commitment to advancing human knowledge. The Astronaut Scholarship not only serves as a recognition of their past achievements but also as an investment in their future potential, echoing the legacy of trailblazing astronauts who have ventured beyond our planet.

For students who aspire to follow in the footsteps of the Astronaut Scholarship recipients, the path begins with reaching out to ASA’s prestigious fellowships advisor, Dr. Karen Mura. Dr. Mura provides guidance and advice that can help aspiring scholars navigate the application process. To express interest in applying for the Astronaut Scholarship or to seek guidance on other prestigious fellowships, students are encouraged to connect with Dr. Mura and Pre-Graduate & Pre-Professional Advising (pgpp.oue.gatech.edu).