The CETYS International Campus opened its doors to the Ensenada community to share a moving story of success and perseverance by Mexican-American astronaut José Hernández, through his lecture “Star Harvester”.

Perseverance, having a life purpose, identifying how far away one is from said purpose, plotting a path to reach it, studying hard, and an overall relentless effort was the key for José Hernández to be admitted to NASA and eventually be part of the Administration´s 128 mission in 2009.

“I invite you to follow these ingredients for success; the most important for me is perseverance, since I was rejected 11 times and it was no until the 12^th attempt that I was accepted, and thus able to achieve my dream of reaching the stars and becoming a NASA astronaut ”, Said José Hernández during the lecture.

He said that in addition to perseverance, which helped him to reach NASA was the magnitude of the dream he had and working hard to achieve it. “I am a living proof that dreams can be reached, as long as you work towards it by studying and always learning. Above all, never stop believing in yourself, because anyone can reach their own stars”.

On the other hand, the astronaut highlighted the potential for the development of the aerospace industry in Baja California, where young people have a great opportunity, both because of the proximity to the United States and the interest that organizations such as PIMSA and CETYS have to promote regional development.

“I am very proud to be able to participate with CETYS, its students and faculty. Just before this conference, I was working with a team of students and professors from the three CETYS campuses, as we are developing different aerospace-related projects” he explained.

Specifically, CETYS students and faculty are developing propulsion systems that will later evolve into a rocket launch in collaboration with other international organizations, which will make CETYS one of the few universities in Mexico to develop experts in this field.

“I fully trust the talent of young Mexicans, and I am committed to planting the seeds of hope in our youth, empowering students and letting them know that everything is possible,” he concluded.

It is important to highlight the support of PIMSA to make this event possible because through this and other related initiatives, such as the Distinguished Chairs Program, it is possible to propel the research themes in specific areas of knowledge, enrich the educational experience, contribute to curricula, and further elevate the global competitiveness of the institution.