Disclaimer: All opinions and advice in this episode are personal and do not reflect that of NASA or the United States Government.

In this episode of Space Spiels, Paige sits down with NASA Pathways intern Santiago Garza to explore the winding path that brought him into aerospace. Santiago shares how a career counselor helped him discover what he truly wanted to study, why he chose Texas A&M, and how he navigated paying for college with transparency and honesty. He breaks down his Pathways application process (NOTE: this may be outdated), what he thinks helped him stand out, and his experience completing multiple tours. We talk about extending graduation, balancing industry experience with school, and the moments of self-doubt he had to push through along the way. Santiago closes with grounded, thoughtful advice for students hoping to follow a similar path.

Connect with Santiago on LinkedIn

In this episode, Paige talks with Sana, an Elevate(her) ambassador who discovered her passion for gliding by simply following her curiosity, not overthinking, just doing. She shares the thrill of “switching off” once airborne and the moment she realized she might be the first female Syrian glider pilot. Sana opens up about the courage it takes to “take the unlit road,” embracing bravery in both flight and life. Through her journey, she highlights the power of community and connection found within Elevate(her) and encourages others to chase what lights them up.

Follow Sana here

Check out Elevate(her) Aviation

Disclaimer: I am a contractor intern at NASA! my personal social media communications about NASA only reflect my personal views and do not represent the views of NASA or the United States Government.

Paige chats with Naval officer and creator Kellie Sbrocchi about her journey from the U.S. Naval Academy to building a platform that encourages others to “Do Both.” Kellie shares how she learned to balance discipline and creativity, from running track and managing academics to embracing fashion, pageantry, and social media. She opens up about facing criticism, handling rejection, and staying confident while pursuing multiple passions in a male-dominated field. The conversation highlights the importance of rest, resilience, and giving yourself permission to thrive in every part of your life.

Follow Kellie here

https://kelliesbrocchi.com/

Instagram | Podcast | TikTok

Disclaimer: I am a contractor intern at NASA! my personal social media communications about NASA only reflect my personal views and do not represent the views of NASA or the United States Government.

In this short update, I reflect on what Space Spiels has taught me and look forward to the Season 3 premiere in a few months. Thank you all for everything!

Space Spiels Instagram

In this episode, I talk with Manju Bangalore a physicist, creative, and astronaut-in-training. We unpack the difference between applied physics and engineering, the power of clear communication in STEM, and the role community plays when you're chasing ambitious goals. Manju shares what it was like interning at the White House, interning at NASA, founding a nonprofit focused on menstrual freedom, and conducting zero-g research on menstruation in space. She reminds us that caring deeply about Earth AND space are not mutually exclusive. This conversation is packed with persistence (including a little delusion), purpose, and proof that you really can be all the things you want to be.

Elevate Us

Manju's Website

In the second episode of my college experience solo series, I share how I made it through engineering school without pulling a single all-nighter, while still landing my dream job. From learning to ask for opportunities (even when it’s uncomfortable) to finding community in my cohort, I break down the strategies that kept me grounded and thriving. I also get real about impostor syndrome and the importance of perseverance, especially in a field designed to challenge you. Finally, I talk about how to recognize your strengths, pursue what excites you (like space toilets!), and chase your goals boldly. This episode is full of honest advice and motivation for any aerospace nerd, college student, or otherwise. 

In this solo episode, I unpack how I balanced astronautical engineering, horseback riding, marching band, and scuba diving throughout college— (kind of) gracefully. I share the messy truth behind “doing it all,” including the trade-offs, mistakes, and why giving 100% to everything isn’t sustainable (but 95% might be). From USC game days to scuba diving after work. From moving my horse cross-state to performing under a space shuttle. This episode is an informative, honest, yet chaotic verbal journal entry. If you're wondering how to pursue your passions and your degree, this one's for you.

Space Spiels Links!

In this episode, Paige speaks with Lilli, the Glider Queen herself! In this candid conversation, she shares her aviation story, gives a glimpse into how gliders are launched, reveals the name of her glider, and much more! Enjoy!!

Lilli's Instagram

Elevate(her)

Paige speaks with NASA Propulsion Operations Engineer Breece Phipps. Breece shares his unconventional path, highlighting his love for goal-setting and coffee. This episode is fun and inspiring. Enjoy!!

Breece's LinkedIn

SpaceFox Coffee!!

In honor of the University of Southern California’s Astronautical Engineering Department’s 20th anniversary, Paige speaks with six different guests from the school: the three founders and three students. 

This episode explores several stories from ASTE history and what makes the department unique. This is an absolute must listen!

Guests:

Mike Gruntman - ASTE founder

Dan Erwin - ASTE founder

Joesph Kunc - ASTE founder

Armen Arakelyan - ASTE undergraduate student (RPL)

Jordan Smith - AME master’s student (LPL)
Kevin Sampson - ASTE PhD student