Women in Astronomy - Geraldine Preval - Software Engineer at STScI

• Tell us about yourself.

?I am a first-generation Haitian-American, born and raised in Norwalk, CT and the youngest of 4.? I have been an official resident of Maryland since roughly 2010.? I originally came to Maryland (Baltimore) to complete my undergraduate’s degree in Computer Science at Morgan State University. ?Shortly after graduating, I decided that Maryland would be my new home state.? I am currently a Software Engineer at STScI and have been working at the Institute for a little over 12 years now.? While working at STScI, I was able to complete/receive two Master’s Degrees from the Engineering for Professionals program at The Johns Hopkins University (M.S. Information Systems Engineer with the focus of Network Engineering and M.S. Systems Engineering).? I like to describe myself as an extroverted introvert who is somewhat of a homebody that is okay with relaxing the majority of the time, but also greatly enjoy good company and exploring new things/places.

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• What led you into astronomy?

?I actually came into astronomy and the space industry by accident.? I’ve always been amazed with space when learning about planets in elementary school, however, the interest somewhat subsided as I got older since school seemed to stop teaching astronomy or anything space related.? Plus, I didn’t personally know anyone who actively were into astronomy at the time.? After graduating with my undergraduate’s degree, I applied to many Computer Science related positions, the Software Engineer position at STScI being one of them.? When I got a call to interview at the Institute, my interest peaked again for all things space related and thought it would be cool to work in that industry.? Upon getting notified that I got the job, I was of course happy, but more so excited that I’d be able to pick up learning about space/astronomy where I left off as a young girl.? Fortunately, not only do I get to work on software that capture beautiful images of space, the Institute also provides many talks, forums, etc…that continues to feed my interest in this discipline.

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• Why are you so passionate about your work at STScI?

?I work in the space industry!? That alone is probably one of the coolest things ever.? Being able to work on software that give instructions to a space telescope to point at certain directions, angles, etc…to capture images in outer space is simply incredible.? Providing assistance to test applications for science proposers to use is also great.? My coworkers are wonderful to work with and the overall atmosphere at STScI is just amazing!

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• Share an achievement you are most proud?.

?I’m not sure if this counts as a single achievement, but I am most proud of my journey to Maryland.? I came to Maryland with little to no help and knowing absolutely no one in the state and yet I was able to build a life of my own here.? I’ve made some wonderful friends, work in a wonderful industry at an amazing company, and I’ve endured/overcame many obstacles. ?This journey was well worth it!

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• What are your hobbies outside of work?

I love to travel any chance I get.? I’m trying to get back into the habit of reading more consistently and so far, I’ve been doing really good with that!? I am also very pro staying home to binge watch shows and relaxing.?

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• What advice would you give to women and young girls coming into this field?

?Astronomy is a field well worth it.? There are so many things you can do in so many different areas.? Seize the opportunity and enjoy!