This episode was recorded at the Inter Astra Retreat just outside Washington DC last November (2023). I sat down with Stella Marcy, a high school freshman from upstate New York with big dreams of becoming an astrobiologist. Stella’s passion for exploring the origins of life on other planets and her curiosity about the universe is truly inspiring. In our conversation, we discussed what it means to be an astrobiologist, the tools scientists use to search for life beyond Earth, and how high school student Stella can prepare for her career. In this episode, you’ll discover: • What astrobiologists do. • The importance of STEM education in pursuing a career in space science. • How young students can get involved in STEM programs and research opportunities. • Stella’s inspirations and her goals for the future, including her dream universities. • Insights from the Inter Astra Retreat. Quote:  "INTER ASTRA IS A GREAT WAY TO MAKE CONNECTIONS, TO GET INTERNSHIPS OR RESEARCH PROJECTS OR MENTORS WHO ALSO WOULD REALLY HELP ME."   - STELLA MARCY Episode Links:  Follow Inter Astra on LinkedIn Discover more about Inter Astra  Credits:   Production by CxS Partners LTD   Executive Producer: Toby Goodman   Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner   Artwork: Ryan Field  Recorded on location on Nomono Sound Capsule  Explore more episodes at Kathy Sullivan Explores... https://kathysullivaneexplores.com/    Find even more podcasts on the Inter Astra Podcast Network HERE  SPACESHIP NOT REQUIRED I’m Kathy Sullivan, the only person to have walked in space and gone to the deepest point in the ocean. I’m an explorer, and that doesn’t always have to involve going to some remote or exotic place. It simply requires a commitment to put curiosity into action. In this podcast, you can explore, reflecting on lessons learned from life so far and from my brilliant and ever-inquisitive guests. We explore together in this very moment from right where you are… spaceship not required. Welcome to Kathy Sullivan Explores.