If becoming an astronaut is a dream, held long and steadfast, then this labor will be one of love.
The preparation for becoming an astronaut actually begins in elementary school. "It is here that the foundations are laid down and then built upon," comments @Colonel @Charlie @Bolden, @Deputy @Commandant of @Midshipmen at the U.S. @Naval @Academy. "Start with the basics and get them down first ... you can't do anything without math and science." At this level, students should read everything they can get their hands on about astronauts and space in general. Later, once they have found a specific field of interest, they can begin to focus on that.
But there's more than book learning involved. Other skills Bolden feels are integral to becoming an astronaut are: being able to work as a team player; understanding and appreciating your ethnic, cultural, and American history; and maintaining a grasp on current events.
Bolden does not hold the opinion that America's young people are less equipped than their foreign counterparts. "I listen to people say that American students can't do this and can't do that. I don't buy into or accept that at all. Kids are just as sharp as when I came up. It's just motivation that may be lacking," Bolden said.
It is also interesting to note that out of 195 former and present astronauts, 123 (64%) have taken part in some form of scouting. Scouting develops a sense of discipline, as well as particular skills. Both are crucial to becoming part of the astronaut team.
