Carolyn James is a computer science student at Colorado School of Mines researching how artificial intelligence can improve secure communications for the space industry. Through the FIRST Research Program, she is exploring ways AI can reduce communication delays between Earth and satellites while helping automate tasks that support NASA’s Artemis missions. Driven by a passion for cybersecurity and space exploration, Carolyn hopes to help build the secure communication systems that will support the next generation of space missions.
A Day in the Life of a Computer Science Student
What does a typical day in your role look like?
I have a pretty typical day for a computer science student. I have class every morning. After lunch, I have more classes and I also work on a research project for the space industry. I spend a few hours working for the admissions office at my school and volunteering with several community service organizations. Around dinnertime, I usually find my Sigma Kappa sisters for meetings or events. Then we finish the evening by studying and preparing for the next day.
How would you explain your field of work to a kindergarten class?
Have you ever told a friend a secret? How would you feel if someone heard your secret and told everyone else? I make sure no one can hear or see the things we say to other people when we use computers or phones.
The Path to Space Cybersecurity
I have been interested in STEM since a young age. I went to a multitude of summer camps starting to explore the many different opportunities available, and I fell in love with coding. From this new love, I started learning new languages, joined robotics teams, and participated in hackathons. I looked for any opportunities to continue studying this amazing field. I started going to camps specific to coding. After that, I held a steady focus on camps and programs that allowed me to investigate and explore computer science at a deeper level. Without exception, every experience I have had has been its own adventure. With each new thing I learn it makes me so much more interested in computer science. Every new opportunity has inspired new questions leading me to further unending investigations.
My first experience in science came when I joined my Girl Scout Robotics team, the ROBOGirls. I loved designing and building the robot, but the best part was coding it. The First Lego League challenge themes changed every year. This not only gave us new mission to design and complete, it also provided real world experiences for us to learn about. Our leaders incorporated field trips and learning experiences so we had a better understanding of how our game connected to real life. We learned about challenges faced in the space industry as well as in producing and maintain clean water. It was through the educational portion of the competition that I started to realize that I could continue with these same concepts as a career.
Most people see and recognize the professional side of the people in science, but would be surprised at how interesting the array of hobbies are on the personal side. From outdoor activities, motorsports, and high adventure to less strenuous activities such as competitive board games, writing novels, and enjoying all genres of music, the personal lives of people in science do not fit any stereotypes.
I spent over 115 hours planning, and raised more than $7,500 to implement a robotics course at Sunset School, a small, rural school with predominantly migrant students, 99% coming from low-income families who don’t have the educational or STEM opportunities students in urban areas have access to.
The Science That Moves Us Forward
How has AWIS helped you professionally/or personally?
I have used the resources provided by AWIS often throughout my membership. As a female student on a college campus that is predominately made up of male students, I have pulled information from the AWIS webpage about dealing with gender bias and harassment in science industries. I enjoy reading the News Briefs and keeping up with science advancements that are happening every day. The spotlight section is especially helpful to me. Whenever I feel bogged down in my studies or research I often read through a few bios and always find something that inspires me and helps me refocus on the long-range goals that I have set. My favorite resource from AWIS is the Wall of Wisdom. I have quoted this section many times when encouraging my sorority sisters, friends, and other female classmates.
How has your work/research helped drive discovery, innovation, or impact?
The most impactful program I have been part of in college is the FIRST Research Program. In this program, I am getting to conduct research as a freshman. I have been partnered with a department professor and mentor. My project is studying how to use AI to reduce the lag time in communications between Earth and satellites. We are also researching ways AI can be used to complete various tasks, reducing the workload on astronauts in NASA’s Artemis program.
Where do you see your work heading next?
My major is Computer Science with a Space Specialty. I plan to earn a Master’s degree and become a Cybersecurity Architect. I want to create secure communications systems and advance current security measures. I’ve always been enamored with the idea of working for an intelligence, military, or other governmental organization to help secure their communications and operation networks from cyber attacks.
How do you see your work helping shape the future of STEM?
Computer networking has become an essential knowledge in today’s global economy. Digital sharing of information impacts every aspect of life, from e-commerce to agriculture to health care. Every sector of society collects and often shares personal, financial, business, and sometimes proprietary data of its customers and affiliates. With more than 20 billion devices connected to the internet this type of information has great value, especially for criminals looking to get their hands on it. All of these devices are constantly producing massive amounts of data. It is nearly impossible to engage in business beyond the local level or complete the functions of personal daily living tasks without the ease brought on by computer science and the safety provided by security analysts. Whether it is in the private, public, or governmental sectors, nearly every aspect of civilization is affected by computer networking and the need to do that safely.
To a Future Scientist Just Starting Out
What advice would you give to your younger self / someone just starting out in your field?
Don’t work to try to impress anyone. Just relax and be, (and accept) yourself. That, and your work will make all the impressions you need.Always stay curious and above all, keep asking questions.
What are some strategies you use to maintain resilience and persistence in the face of obstacles?
Others have recognized me as tenacious and persistent. I love the challenges that computer science and cybersecurity offers. The feeling I get when solving a problem or completing a task is all the reward I need to encourage me in tough times.
What message would you share with future scientists about the power they hold to make a difference?
Advancements in science are progressing more and more rapidly every day. If you really want to make a difference, combine you strengths and powers collaboratively with others. When embracing diversity we get another perspective and are able see things from different angles, alerting us to unintended consequences, conflicts, and solutions we may otherwise miss. It is through diversity that innovation thrives and flourishes.
