Adriana Ocampo Uria
Planetary Geologist & Science Program Manager
NASA
Washington, DC USA
“We are the architects of our destinies.”
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By Roadtrip NationAdriana Ocampo Uria
Milestones
My road in life has been direct.
I’m originally from Colombia but was also raised in Argentina.
I emigrated with my family to the United States where I was able to pursue my dream of becoming a scientist working at NASA.
I originally wanted to become an aerospace engineer and started volunteering at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory when I was in high school.
I attended Pasadena City College and then transferred to California State University, Los Angeles, where I changed my trajectory from aerospace engineering and earned my bachelor’s degree in geology.
I continued to work at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory throughout college and accepted a full-time position as a research scientist after graduating.
I went on to earn my master’s degree in planetary geology from California State University, Northridge, and completed my Ph.D. at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam.
Some of my career accomplishments include discoveries on the Chicxulub impact crater, leading the data analysis of Jupiter’s moon Europa as part of the Galileo mission, and leading the Juno mission.
I currently work as lead program executive for NASA's New Frontiers Program.
Keep following my journey
Education
High School
Graduate
Planetary Geology
California State University, Northridge
Planetary Geology
California State University, Northridge
Doctorate
Planetary Geology
Vrije Universiteit
Planetary Geology
Vrije Universiteit
Career
Planetary Geologist & Science Program Manager
I oversee space exploration missions under NASA's New Frontiers Program.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Science
Engineering
Learning / Being Challenged
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for everyone
Always be ready to volunteer. Find a place you'd like to work and see if they offer any volunteer or co-op opportunities. I got started at NASA by volunteering when I was in high school. Try to get involved with societies and organizations for a field you're interested in. I joined the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers, which was an amazing experience that helped me develop leadership and networking skills. Finally, look for mentors to help support and guide you throughout your journey.
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Teachers:
"Geology is not for women."
Challenges I Overcame
First-Generation Immigrant
School Stress
