Natasha Nogueira

Hometown: Santa Cruz, CA

High School: York School

Intended Major: Engineering & Astronomy

Possible Career: Engineer or Researcher in Space Industry and Exploration

4 words: Compassionate, creative, dedicated, and proactive

What impact do you want to have on the world?

I want to take part in the furthering of space exploration, but also emphasize the importance of assisting those in need within our community and around the world.

Name a person you admire.

My mother, Katia Nogueira for being a fearless, admirable immigrant woman, who has supported and fostered my endeavors and dreams.

What is something you are proud of in your life so far?

I am proud of the world I did during my gap year before starting Swarthmore, where I went to Brazil (my parent are Brazilian immigrants) and worked in an after-school prevention program for children from the nearby favelas (slums). In addition to enriching their lives with extracurricular activities they would not have the opportunity to experience otherwise, I was a music instructor during my time there, teaching the students how to sing and how to appreciate music as a form of expression that goes beyond international borders. 

What have been the most valuable Evans Scholars program experiences for you?

Through Evans, I have been able to pursue music in opportunities that I would never have been able to - specifically, singing Opera in Florence, Italy for 3 weeks this summer. In addition, the cohort of Evans alumni and fellow current students has been extremely invaluable, as they share their own incredible experiences and insights of the world and as they provide a support group to help each of us achieve our goals. 

I also had the unique opportunity to purchase a Classic Dobsonian reflector telescope, which I have used to pursue my love and interests in astronomy by doing observations of my own. 

What was the most transformative class you have taken and/or what subjects do you want to explore deeply?

The most transformative class I have taken so far at Swarthmore has been my current Introduction to Astrophysics class. While the class is a science course that has been furthering educating me in our universe, the stars, and planets, it has also been an eye opener in helping me visualize the enormity of space and how truly tiny and insignificant the earth is within the universe. Residing on a planet that is a minuscule grain of sand within our vast universe, the class has inspired me to further appreciate the world we live in and note just how important it is to be a united population that goes beyond language, racial, and religious barriers and international borders, in order to demonstrate a united front in the welfare of humankind.