Surgeon first, astronaut next! As the end of her first summer at EXPLO approaches, Amina reflects on the things she's learned, the people she's met, and her goals for the future (heads up — she has quite a few!).
Being 13 isn't that different from being 12, because people still sometimes treat you like a kid. But kids can do stuff, too. Like Malala! I really look up to Malala. I loved how she dedicated herself to making sure girls get an education. She's stopped at nothing to achieve her goals, and I think that's awesome. She was only 16 when she wrote her book!
I love EXPLO because it's an academic-based program and we're learning all the time, but it's not traditional classroom learning. It's way more fun and hands-on here. The best part of my day here is any time that I get to spend in my courses. Every moment is full of learning and fun. Having so many opportunities for hands-on academics really makes this place different from anywhere I've ever been.
I've definitely learned a lot since coming here. I took the CPR workshop last week and got certified, which makes me happy — and probably my parents, too. I've met more people from more places in these two weeks than I have in my entire life. I don't know how to describe it, but just knowing how people live in other places makes me feel connected to them.
I'd describe EXPLO as really fun. You're learning, but half the time you don't even know it. The food, the people — it's all great. The zero-tolerance policy for racism and homophobia is really good. Everyone is accepted here. Overall, the program is just such a good experience.
My main goal is to become an astronaut. But I know I can't do that straight out of college, so I think I'll be a surgeon first. Once I have my medical degree and stuff, maybe NASA will hire me and I'll become an astronaut. I feel like I'm already on my way, because this week I learned how to do sutures. I'm proud of myself for that.
Charlotte Steinberg