Meet: Christy Byrne

Freshman at CalPoly

What I do at NASA

I work on the activities page layout and make up activities with the help of books, internet, and other resources. I take the articles teachers write on space and make up games or word puzzles that help kids better understand what they've read. For example, a kindergartner might not understand the word 'experiment' or 'engineer'. I create activities that help young readers relate better to the words. Then I decide where each puzzle, picture, graphic and text goes on the page.

How I got this job

I found out about it through the Nova Youth Center, which finds jobs for youth at no expense. When I interviewed at NASA, I found out that there were over 20 people being interviewed, so I surprised, but thrilled when I discovered I was one of the lucky ones chosen. Having previous experience with layout really helped-I was news section editor for Wilcox High School.

Other things I find interesting

I find layout very fun. You are the designer and get to decide what goes where and what looks good. Right now I'm making a book (all of which is being laid out on the computer) for my mother, full of pictures, memories and humorous insights. Before I leave for college I'm going to give her the book so she will always remember the good times.

I love playing volleyball. I played for high school and plan on getting involved in intramural volleyball when I get to Cal Poly. I also enjoy running a lot. I release any aggression or stress I have through exercise.

I'm majoring in computer science at Cal Poly, which I'm really excited about. Although I don't have too much experience with computers, I'm learning C++ right now, so I'll have some background.