ISU student gets an internship with NASA

Computer Science major at Indiana State University student Ahsan Khan will be a man of many titles this academic year, including a student, a former Senator for the Student Government Association, a Student Assistant in the Office of the President and Provost, and a brother of Pi Kappa Alpha.

But, perhaps the most impressive title he has is an intern for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

In September, as a software engineer, Khan will start a year-long remote internship at the Katherine Johnson IV & V Facility. His duties included working on the communication software for the Orion spacecraft. Under the supervision of his project manager, he’ll be reviewing and modifying software while helping with some of the coding.

“The job market is very competitive in the computer science field. After I applied, I wasn’t expecting an interview, and I was focusing on other internships because I wanted to keep my options open. One day I received a call from these four people from HR that wanted to interview me; I was nervous because I wasn’t expecting it, and I thought maybe I have a chance,” he said.

Khan has been applying for this opportunity for years, but unlike most traditional internships, NASA’s pool of applicants comes from across the country with very impressive backgrounds. Khan applied again in April, and in June, he heard back.

He adds what he thinks secured him the position is his technical proficiency, responses to behavioral questions, his work at ISU, and he’s a people person.

“It’s been a dream of mine for a long time to be with NASA. It went from maybe one day to now it’s here. I want to make NASA believe in my expertise and abilities,” stated Khan.

Khan said he’s been fascinated with space since he was a kid, specifically about a man going to the moon and the movie, Interstellar. This job should address all of his interests.

 “Young Ahsan could never have envisioned this,” He said, laughing. “I knew I’d always reach somewhere; I never knew it would be NASA. I’m excited for this journey to start.”

Matching his fascination with space is his passion for computer science. At Indiana State University, Khan has been able to implement and perfect his computer skills while exploring his curiosities with technology. His knowledge led him to start Tech Tide Solutions, a company focusing on web development and design for local businesses.