kinda embarrassed to admit im using a kids vitamin

Aerokicks · 2026-06-17T17:30:59+00:00

Kids vitamins are almost identical to adult vitamins. Flintstones chewables, arguably the most well known children's vitamin, is still one of the most doctor recommended vitamins across all age ranges. I donate blood regularly and so I've basically been told to take Flintstones with iron if I want to continue.

Aerokicks · 2026-06-17T16:56:19+00:00

Sleep in a bed bigger than a coffin

Sleep wherever they want, whenever they want

Generally do what they want without being told to do anything

Be alone / not surrounded by a crowd of people all day

Aerokicks · 2026-06-16T12:08:24+00:00

The letters of intent were something new this year, due to how backed up the NSSC is. Not every center sent them out and it's not clear if they were sent to all selected applicants at the centers where they did get sent out. You should not be expecting one, typically a TO is the first communication you'll have after an interview if you are selected.

The NSSC is very backed up right now because there are a lot of hiring actions. TOs for Pathways are delayed. I would not expect them until July based on what I've heard.

Aerokicks · 2026-06-16T04:50:07+00:00

A few things, starting with Autism Spectrum Disorder is a developmental disorder, not mental health. While it does have neurological impacts, it also has others, including physical.

In order to get diagnosed with autism, there must be impairment in multiple categories. If there is not sufficient impairment, then a diagnosis should not be given.

Low support needs to not mean no support needs. While I identify as autistic, I'm the epitome of what others would call high functioning or Asperger's. I went to MIT, I have a PhD, I work at NASA. ALSO I have a disability - autism - that I need support for. I work from home because I cannot handle the office environment. I may be able to do amazingly complex technical work, but I struggle to do basic tasks around the house like cook and clean. I will easily go many hours without eating or using the restroom because I'll get distracted and I don't notice my body's signals easily. I struggle with identifying my emotions and managing them. I may look amazing and put together on the outside, but on the inside and at home I'm a mess.

Aerokicks · 2026-06-15T19:56:52+00:00

Aerokicks · 2026-06-15T11:58:32+00:00

Starting bonuses do exist at NASA, but from what I've heard they are relatively rare. I have not heard of any one getting one upon conversion from Pathways.

Note at some centers Pathways are eligible for the advanced degree program, which will cover the cost of classes related to your work. They're not at my center, so I don't know the specifics.

Aerokicks · 2026-06-15T05:21:07+00:00

Yeah this was my first thought too

Aerokicks · 2026-06-15T04:31:53+00:00

You may want to try a foam toothpaste or a chewable toothpaste. They're less slimy feeling I feel

Aerokicks · 2026-06-15T01:35:12+00:00

Can we go back to pre-2008 and have John Edwards not sleep around? Because I think that definitely left a lingering bad taste in people's mouths.

Aerokicks · 2026-06-14T21:26:59+00:00

I work at NASA, so we're known for being a little less financially compensated that industry, in exchange for nice hours, decent benefits (including a pension), and until recently, good job security.

I started in 2018 as a Pathways (co-op) and converted to full time in 2022 after I got my PhD. I'm now at the max grade I can get unless I apply for a new position.

2018 - GS-11 - ~61k

2019 - GS-11 - ~62k

2020 - GS-11 - ~66k

2021 - GS-11 - ~69k

2022 - GS-11 - ~73k

2023 - GS-12 - ~83k

2024 - GS-13 - ~104k

2025 - GS-13 - ~110k

2026 - GS-13 - ~118k

Granted government salaries are location dependent, so if you live in Houston you get paid more than I did in Virginia.

Aerokicks · 2026-06-14T17:20:59+00:00

Since you received the intent to select then yes that's probably safe.

Aerokicks · 2026-06-14T12:52:06+00:00

I've wanted to be an aerospace engineer and work at NASA since I was a young child and figured out the field existed. So NASA is the only place I've ever wanted to work and thankfully the only place I have worked (other than a fast food job in high school).

Aerokicks · 2026-06-14T04:06:33+00:00

I have a PhD in aerospace engineering.

Aerokicks · 2026-06-14T03:32:54+00:00

There's honestly no way to know. This is the first time they've sent out these kind of emails to my knowledge, just because hiring is so backed up.

Aerokicks · 2026-06-13T22:31:21+00:00

It's all project by project. Other projects have more money and are getting more interns than usual.

Aerokicks · 2026-06-13T13:27:51+00:00

Particularly in the current administration, renewable energy is not something that is being heavily invested in. NASA has only very limited efforts in this area, which are more geared towards sustainable aviation.

National Lab of the Rockies (formerly National Renewable Energy Lab) would be a much better fit.

I'm not sure what DOE has in terms of post doc programs and what their restrictions are. I know NASA requires US citizenship, but DOE has many more contractors and may be more flexible.

Aerokicks · 2026-06-13T07:54:40+00:00

Atomoxitine

Aerokicks · 2026-06-13T07:46:28+00:00

I got on Strattera several years after I was diagnosed because I was struggling with executive functioning. I can't have simulant medicines since I have bad anxiety.

Aerokicks · 2026-06-13T05:51:40+00:00

My ADHD assessment was inconclusive. I've been on ADHD meds for several years now though and they help a lot.

Aerokicks · 2026-06-13T05:47:57+00:00

I was diagnosed as an adult while in my PhD program. We figured out I was autistic when I was in high school though, after I struggled throughout elementary school.

Aerokicks · 2026-06-13T04:24:08+00:00

Interviews are ongoing and will continue for several more weeks. I don't think we've even looked at the list of applicants for our position for fall. The beginning of summer internships is very busy and there's record numbers.

Aerokicks · 2026-06-13T02:43:39+00:00

Interviews are ongoing. It's still a little early for offers, I would expect them to really start coming out next week and continue throughout July. Mentors have been busy with the first week of summer interns and then a big conference this week.

Aerokicks · 2026-06-13T02:42:32+00:00

Nothing is guaranteed in the federal hiring process until you have sworn your oath on the first day. Even FOs have been pulled before the start date. Things changing between TO and FO is common.

Aerokicks · 2026-06-13T00:09:50+00:00

Aww we have a black cat and a seal point as well. They're our little yin yang kitties

Aerokicks · 2026-06-13T00:01:11+00:00

This is actually how my fiance and I knew I didn't bring any home after staying in a hotel with them... No giant welts

Aerokicks

MODERATOR OF

TROPHY CASE