The recent pandemic has placed many in the unique position of working remotely from home, and this summer, NASA held its first ever virtual internship session. As interns have adapted to their new virtual schedules, some are finding creative ways to help adjust to working off-site. Here are a few tips from NASA interns on how to telework efficiently while staying healthy and having fun!
Stay upbeat
Teleworking from home offers many surprising advantages. For one, you have complete control over your work environment. This newfound freedom can offer interns the perfect opportunity to spice up their work routine. Jason Fantl, for example, finds that listening to music can help add a little bit of adventure to teleworking. “You can discover new awesome songs that keep you from ever getting too bored,” says Fantl.
Pace yourself and take breaks
For many NASA interns, working remotely is an exciting opportunity to learn and gain experience this summer. But when you’re passionate about your work, it can be hard to pull yourself away. For Air-Breathing Propulsion intern Carnell W. Bolden, however, taking a moment to step back every now and then is key to maintaining a strong work ethic throughout the day. “My best advice is to take a quick five to 10 minute brain break every two hours to relax and stretch,” says Bolden. “That way the work day won’t be too tiresome!”
Get some fresh air
Teleworking stimulates the mind, but it’s also important to take care of the body. While it can feel more comfortable to sit inside and avoid the summer heat, intern Letizia Moro always tries to find time to go out and enjoy the sunshine. “Make sure to get some daily exercise in,” says Letizia. “Even if it is just 20 minutes or taking a stroll around your neighborhood.”
Dress to impress
Sometimes, nothing better prepares you for your work day than business casual attire. While NASA interns aren’t required to dress formally while working from home, that doesn’t stop intern Josh K. Smith. For him, it’s all about the mentality. “Dress as if you’re going to work,” says Smith. “Try as hard as you can to make it feel like you’re going somewhere outside of your home mentally, just to trick your mind.”
Or just enjoy your time at home!
“Stay comfortable, since you have the liberty of working in your PJ’s,” says intern Mónica A. Santiago. This summer, Santiago is teleworking at NASA Glenn from her home in Puerto Rico. While she wishes she could’ve visited the center in-person, Santiago has found her virtual internship to be an exciting opportunity to learn more about aerospace engineering while staying cozy in her house. “Make sure to have a to-do list and keep your calendar up to date,” says Santiago. “Last but not least, have fun and enjoy every part of your internship while learning and growing professionally and personally!”
Cynthia Zhang, Intern
NASA’s Glenn Research Center
