Prestigious Astronaut Scholarships awarded to three Purdue students
Three Purdue students have earned the prestigious Astronaut Scholarship for their remarkable efforts and achievements through hours of research and coursework while in undergraduate studies. As Astronaut Scholars, they will build relationships with scholarship alumni and astronauts, as well as pioneers and leaders in their fields of study. In addition, they recently had a unique opportunity to network with these and fellow scholars across the country at the annual Innovator’s Gala held in August.
Purdue’s 2024 Astronaut Scholars are Briana Chen (aeronautical and astronautical engineering, applied physics); Santiago Lopez (physics, mathematics); and Shelby Sliger (biochemistry). All three are also members of Purdue’s John Martinson Honors College (JMHC).
The Astronaut Scholarship is awarded by The Astronaut Scholarship Foundation (ASF), an organization created in 1984 by the six surviving Mercury 7 astronauts. The prestigious scholarship is known nationwide for being among the highest merit-based monetary scholarships awarded to undergraduate students in science, technology, engineering and math. The scholarships are awarded to students in their junior and senior year of college. The ASF has awarded an Astronaut Scholarship to a Purdue student since 1987.
Learn more about Purdue’s 2024 Astronaut Scholars below:
Briana Chen
Briana Chen
Briana Chen is a senior in Purdue’s School of Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering, College of Science and the John Martinson Honors College with a passion for exploring the unknown.
Chen vividly recalls the moment she found out she had been selected as an Astronaut Scholar. “I had just woken up and looked at my phone to see the email! I've never woken up faster in my life. I felt disbelief and immense gratitude for all the people who helped me get to this point,” Chen said. She was so excited that she ran around her home to burn off the adrenaline, though she had to wait until evening to share the news with her parents, whom she wanted to be the first to know.
At the Innovator’s Gala, Chen was particularly moved by a presentation from Rick Armstrong, the son of Neil Armstrong. “It was not only inspirational to see Armstrong's passion for his work, but seeing their family pictures made me tear up. It made me think about how much I love and appreciate my own family and how lucky I am to pursue my dreams with their support,” Chen shared.
Chen believes the Astronaut Scholarship will have a profound impact on her future. “Being an Astronaut Scholar provides me with a community of amazing people and researchers. It's really great to see different goals and experiences and learn from everyone—I already feel so supported and motivated to continue pursuing my future goals,” she said.
Chen delivering a presentation
Reflecting on her journey, Chen advises other students to follow their own path. “Don’t be afraid to chase new things and live your own life. Comparing yourself to others is a waste of time and will hinder you. You should enjoy your work and realize that you are forging your own path,” she emphasized. Chen also encourages students to apply for opportunities, even if they doubt themselves. “Just do it! You never know what will happen.”
In addition to her academic achievements, Chen credits her success to the support of her mentors and educators. “I firmly believe that a good teacher or mentor can change your life. I have been incredibly fortunate to have teachers, professors, advisors, and mentors who have inspired, challenged, and taken a chance on me. It means the world, and I hope I can be an educator that does the same for people in the future,” she said.
Santiago Lopez
Santiago Lopez is a senior double majoring in physics and mathematics in Purdue’s College of Science, as well as a member of Purdue’s JMHC. Although his journey into the world of physics began almost by chance, it has led him to a path where he is now recognized among the brightest young minds in STEM.
Santiago Lopez
Lopez vividly recalls the moment he learned he had been selected as an Astronaut Scholar. “I was on a road trip from Houston to San Francisco, and I believe I was in Arizona at the time. I had just finished a Zoom work meeting and was walking back to my Airbnb when I opened my email and saw the message. I was in shock—it was completely unexpected. I immediately called my friends and family to let them know,” Lopez said.
The scholarship represents more than just a financial award to Lopez; it’s an opportunity to connect with other brilliant minds in STEM. “I believe the Astronaut Scholarship will help me build connections with other STEM students who have different interests than my own. I hope to learn from their experiences and apply those insights to my life and academics,” he explained.
Lopez on a trip abroad
Lopez’s passion for physics developed during high school, though it wasn’t his initial plan. “I thought I wanted to be a doctor, but after taking a few medicine courses, I didn’t find much passion in that area. Junior year was my first physics course, and although it was difficult, I really enjoyed it. By my senior year, I was taking more physics and science courses. When I applied to college, I chose physics, still unsure if it was the right path. But once I started research in my freshman year at Purdue, I knew I was passionate about the field,” he said.
Looking back on his journey, Lopez advises other students to pursue their genuine interests rather than focusing solely on scholarships or fellowships. “I believe that studying and working in what you’re passionate about will allow you to gain the opportunities you aspire to have. The difficult part is convincing others that what you do is worth their attention, but if you truly appreciate your work, it’s an amazing feeling to share that with others. So, do something that is fulfilling for you—not just for the scholarships, although they definitely help,” he said.
Shelby Sliger
Shelby Sliger, a senior biochemistry major in Purdue’s College of Agriculture and a member of the John Martinson Honors College, discovered a passion for research during her high school participation in Science Olympiad. This early experience has driven her to excel in her studies and make significant contributions in her field. This passion only grew stronger as she engaged in undergraduate research under the mentorship of Joe Ogas, Purdue professor of biochemistry.
Shelby Sliger
Sliger learned about her selection as an Astronaut Scholar while working in her undergraduate research lab, where she studies histone proteins in Arabidopsis plants with Ogas. “I was plating Arabidopsis seedlings for an experiment when I found out,” Sliger said, adding that he was one of the first people to hear her news. “The support and scientific training I received from my PI and postdoctoral mentor made receiving the Astronaut Scholarship possible.”
Attending the Innovator’s Gala in August was a standout experience for Sliger. Like Chen, Sliger found inspiration in Rick Armstrong’s talk and a presentation by Bernard Harris Jr., the first Black astronaut to perform a spacewalk. “Rick Armstrong’s reflection on his father’s life outside of going to the moon really resonated with me,” she said. “It reminded me that what makes people special is not just their accomplishments, but who they are and what they choose to do with their time.”
Looking ahead, Sliger plans to pursue a Ph.D. in biochemistry or molecular biology with the goal of becoming a research professor. She believes the Astronaut Scholarship will significantly enhance her application to prestigious graduate programs. “This recognition has made me a much more competitive applicant, and I’m excited to push the boundaries of what I can learn and achieve,” she said.
Sliger being recognized for an award
Sliger advises other students to start undergraduate research early and build strong relationships with mentors. “Getting involved in research and extracurriculars shows you’re committed to making a difference, and that’s what really stands out to scholarship committees,” she said.
In addition to her Astronaut Scholarship, Sliger is also a Stamps Scholar and Goldwater Scholar, underscoring her dedication to academic excellence and research.
Purdue’s National and International Scholarships Office, or NISO, is housed in the John Martinson Honors College and supports all Purdue students in applying for prestigious scholarships. Students interested in such awards are encouraged to reach out to the NISO office by email or visit the NISO website.
Andrea Mattingly
Director of Communication for Teaching and Learning, andrea@purdue.edu