To Boldly Go: Lived Experiences of Racially Minoritized Graduate Students in the Space Sciences

• In Event: Focusing on Graduate Student Experiences: Reflections on Engagement and Activism for Black and Latina Students

Abstract

This phenomenological study provides evidence of the lived experiences of 12 racially minoritized graduate students in the interdisciplinary field of space science. We provide evidence that racially minoritized graduate students place a strong importance on representation in space sciences. Mentorship was seen as a dual phenomenon: one of allyship but also of barrier. Microaggressions continue to persist, particularly in professional settings and the industry workforce. In addition, some students view multiple career pathways and options via a racialized lens as they work towards graduation. We argue that the uphill battle for creating inclusive environments in space science continues and that graduate education has an outsized role in transforming this multidisciplinary field.

Authors

• Radomir Ray Mitic, College of William & Mary

• Maire Brandenburg, University of North Dakota