BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION, CLASS OF 2021
Reiley Doty’s dream of working at NASA began in the fifth grade when she took a trip to the Challenger Learning Center in Normal, Ill. There, she learned about mission control and even experienced simulated space missions. Reiley’s dreams turned into reality when she became an Administrative Trainee for NASA.
At the beginning of the year, Reiley was accepted into the Pathways Internship/Co-Op program at NASA Johnson Space Center, with the help of her mentor, a current NASA employee.
She has worked in three different offices at NASA over the past few semesters, beginning in Public Affairs, where she met some of the people who make live commentaries during NASA events. She also maintained their posts on social media. The following semester, she became involved with Operations Support Office of Procurement, and in the spring she will be working in the NASA Human Resources office. She has been amazed by the variety of positions available at NASA.
When I finally found this school that was affordable and that would take all the work I had done up to that point, I knew I couldn’t say no.
Reiley says, “We have business, graphic design, scuba instructors for the NBL, writers, educators, surgeons, and even seamstresses!” She adds, “There is something for everyone at NASA. All you need is a passion for space exploration!”
Reiley hopes to gain a full-time position there after she graduates from Judson in the fall of 2022. She transferred to Judson and is currently majoring in Business Administrationwith a concentration in Leadership. She is also enrolled in the Adult Professional Program at Judson. She says, “I found Judson at the time I needed it most and it’s been the perfect fit for me in terms of classes, lifestyle, and community.”
Judson has played a major role in helping Reiley achieve her goals. The flexibility at Judson allows her to continue earning her degree while living in Houston to pursue her career at NASA. She is very grateful to Judson for helping her navigate the transfer process.
“[Judson] made it such a breeze and I needed that sigh of relief because I was a stressed-out collegiate athlete juggling classes and also planning my wedding,” she explains. “When I finally found this school that was affordable and that would take all the work I had done up to that point, I knew I couldn’t say no.”
Reiley adds, “This school is truly a blessing from God and I am so thankful to be here!”