Paige Kaufman (BS ’25)
What inspired you to study engineering and to apply to USC in particular?
At a young age, I remember watching a documentary on TV and seeing a room full of people crying, doing secret handshakes, cheering and hugging. They had just sent a rocket into space. I knew I wanted to be in that room one day. In high school, I began working to make that dream a reality – I went to Space Camp and led my school’s Young Astronauts Club.
When applying to colleges, I looked for three key elements: an aerospace engineering program, a musical organization where I could play clarinet, and a place nearby where I could keep my horse. USC checked all those boxes. As I spoke with alumni and current students, I noticed a unique spirit and passion that radiated from them as they talked about their school. USC’s astronautical engineering program was exactly what I wanted to study, and I appreciated the university’s emphasis on interdisciplinary studies, especially as someone with many interests and hobbies. The decision became even clearer when I received an email announcing my full scholarship.
As you approach commencement, what do you consider to be some of your most significant achievements?
One of my proudest achievements was overcoming the challenges of my first year of engineering school. Going from the top of my high school class to wondering if I was even smart enough to be an engineer was tough.
In my Spacecraft Systems class (ASTE 331b), I was selected to lead the first-ever Human Mission Design project. It was my first formal leadership position as an (almost) engineer, and I’m so proud of how our seven-person team’s project turned out. I learned a lot in that class, and Professors Danielle March and Jim Chase were incredible mentors – not only technically, but also in teaching effective team management.
How has your human-centered approach to astronautical engineering transferred to other projects?
Since the spring of my freshman year, I’ve been assisting with Dr. Garrett Reisman’s NASA HOME (Habitats Optimized for Missions of Exploration) research. Under the guidance of my mentor, PhD candidate Ulu Ulusoy, I helped conduct two human factors experiments exploring human-autonomy teaming for task execution in deep space habitats. I learned how to conduct a human factors experiment from start to finish and co-authored a paper on experiment design.
Have you been involved in any extracurriculars during your studies?
Absolutely! I played clarinet in the Trojan Marching Band for four years. It made my college experience unforgettable. I had the chance to perform under a space shuttle, march in the Catalina Fourth of July Parade, and travel to Chicago, Las Vegas, D.C., Texas, Arizona, and Oregon. I also served as a clarinet squad leader for three years, which helped me develop strong leadership skills. My experience in the band sealed my fate as one of those enthusiastic USC alumni I spoke to as a prospective student – I’ll be cheering on the Trojan Family for life.
I also brought my horse, Andromeda, to college with me. She lives in Pasadena, and I ride her four days a week. Caring for her is meditative, improves my well-being, and reminds me to take care of myself. She challenges me to be a better rider and person – and she’s my best friend.
Another big project I started is my podcast, Space Spiels, which focuses on community and culture in aerospace. I host down-to-earth conversations with industry professionals to help inspire and retain talent in the field. The Trojan Network has helped me connect with incredible guests – from Blue Angel aviators and NASA engineers to startup founders.
I also learned to scuba dive at USC. Pushing myself out of my comfort zone led me to fall in love with diving. One of the employees who certified me was a Trojan too, and we’ve become great friends. I’ve since earned my PADI Rescue certification and look forward to continuing my diving adventures.
Who have you particularly enjoyed working with at USC?
I was part of the USC Liquid Propulsion Lab for three semesters. It was the first place I applied technical engineering knowledge and where I found amazing mentors and friends. Plus, I got to see a rocket engine fire in person for the first time – it was unforgettable.
The summer after my junior year, I interned at Vast Space as a human systems intern. Vast is developing the first private space station. I worked on a display mount, a kick test stand attachment, and medical data. My team had a diverse skill set and was full of grounded, knowledgeable people who were excellent teachers.
What’s your best piece of advice for other students?
First, find community wherever you go. Next, remember that intelligence is built through perseverance, not something you’re born with. Finally, figure out what you want to do – career or otherwise – then tell people about it and let them help you. Run toward it with everything you’ve got.
What’s next after graduation?
After graduation, I’ll be joining NASA Mission Control as an intern at Johnson Space Center on the Environmental and Thermal Operating Systems team. I can’t wait!
In the fall, I’ll be completing my final master’s class remotely while working full-time at a company still to be determined.
Long term, I dream of becoming a flight director for human spaceflight missions. Thanks to my teachers, family, friends, and USC, I know that goal is within reach.
Published on May 12th, 2025
Last updated on May 12th, 2025
