The Lifelong Impact of Mentorship for STEM Students

Joe Tanner (Veteran NASA Astronaut) and Curtis Althaus (University of Illinois Student) - Astronaut Scholarship Foundation

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The right mentor can totally change the college and career trajectory of a student. Today, we're exploring the power of mentorships through the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation.

Join veteran NASA astronaut Joe Tanner and current Astronaut Scholar Curtis Althaus as they dive into the powerful, and often overlooked, role mentorship plays in building tomorrow’s innovators.

Through their personal stories, you’ll hear how mentorship goes beyond simply offering advice. It’s about offering guidance in those pivotal moments—helping mentees navigate tough decisions, inspiring them to chase big dreams, and providing the type of insight that only years of experience can offer. Whether it’s choosing between two internships or deciding which research path to pursue, mentorship gives students the clarity and confidence they need to thrive.

The conversation also sheds light on why the mentorship experience is a two-way street. For Joe, it’s not just about imparting wisdom; it’s about building meaningful relationships that continue to shape both mentors and mentees long after the formal program ends. And for Curtis, being part of ASF isn’t just about the scholarship—it’s about becoming part of a dynamic community that challenges him to push boundaries and think bigger.

Listen to learn:

Why mentorship in STEM isn’t just about academic guidance
The unexpected ways mentorship creates clarity, confidence, and lifelong connections for both mentors and mentees
How ASF’s mentorship program builds a community where learning, collaboration, and innovation go hand in hand
What it means to be a part of a “family” of scholars who not only receive support but give it back as they grow
The actionable insights Joe and Curtis share about navigating career decisions, embracing failure, and seizing unexpected opportunities

3 Big Takeaways from this Episode:

Mentorship in STEM goes far beyond academics. Joe and Curtis share how their mentor/mentee relationship is far less about Joe advising Curtis on his academic journey, and far more about sharing a lifetime of wisdom to help Curtis with all aspects of life. It's a great reminder that you don't need to be an expert in the same field as a student to become their mentor.
Programs like ASF offer a lifelong community which can have long-reaching impact for students. Curtis shares how his ASF experience has evolved from academic support to a true "family" environment, where the community of scholars connects, learns from each other, and shares the same passions and big ideas. Getting involved in a community of peers - those with similar ideals and those with differing viewpoints - can have a huge impact on a student's life.
Brilliant people can come from anywhere. Credit to Curtis for this brilliant observation, but through his time at ASF he's met bright individuals from every background imaginable. Being open to new people and new experiences can create a much more wholistic life experience for young students.

Resources in this Episode:

Learn more about the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation, visit: www.astronautscholarship.org

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