20VC with Harry Stebbings - How to get a job at NASA from a cold call 🚀
The speaker was determined to become an astronaut and sought a NASA internship while attending high school in New York City. Despite being rejected five times, the speaker took advantage of a snow day when the school was closed to visit NASA's New York City office. After being turned away by security, the speaker sat outside in the cold, called their mother, and was encouraged to persist. The speaker then cold-called every number they could find for the building, eventually reaching someone who was in the office. After a two-hour impromptu pitch, the speaker botched the interview due to a lack of knowledge in linear algebra and physics. However, they returned the next day, having memorized the titles of posters related to the professor's research, and impressed him enough to secure an unpaid position.
Key Points:
- Persistence is key; don't give up after initial rejections.
- Use unexpected opportunities, like a snow day, to pursue goals.
- Cold-calling can be effective; reach out to as many contacts as possible.
- Preparation matters; learn about the specific interests of potential employers.
- Impressing with knowledge can lead to opportunities, even if unpaid initially.
Details:
1. 🚀 Dreaming of NASA: A Rejected Aspiration
- The aspiration to become an astronaut was a significant personal goal, driven by a fascination with space exploration and science.
- A desire to secure a NASA internship emerged during high school years in New York City, reflecting a proactive approach to achieving the dream.
- Despite the rejection, the ambition to work in the space field remained, illustrating resilience and determination.
2. ❄️ A Determined Visit: Snow Day at NASA Office
- Despite school closures due to snow, the individual commuted to NASA's New York City office, demonstrating strong determination and commitment to their goals.
- The visit underscored the importance of resilience and dedication in professional pursuits, especially in challenging conditions.
- This determination to visit NASA was not only about showing commitment but also about seizing opportunities to engage with significant scientific communities.
- The adverse weather highlighted the individual's ability to prioritize long-term career goals over short-term inconveniences.
3. 📞 Persistence Pays Off: Cold Calls and Curbside Waiting
- An individual enhanced their job application process by printing their resume on high-quality paper and wearing a suit, demonstrating professionalism.
- Despite being initially rejected by security at the company door, the individual showed resilience by waiting outside in adverse weather conditions, showcasing strong dedication to securing a position.
- This persistence not only demonstrates commitment but also serves as a strategic approach to make a memorable impression on potential employers.
4. 🤝 Unlikely Success: From Botched Interview to Opportunity
- Implemented a cold-calling strategy, reaching out to every possible contact found through Google, demonstrating a proactive approach.
- Dedicated two hours to pitching personal skills and experience, even when lacking knowledge in key areas such as linear algebra and physics, indicating resilience and adaptability.
- Memorized research topics and returned with more knowledge, showing commitment to learning and growth.
- Secured a free work opportunity through relentless pursuit and demonstrated interest in the professor's research, highlighting the importance of dedication and interest alignment.