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Course Choices

*All course choices are subject to variation from your high school offers.*

  • ​Math

    • Take at minimum AP Calc AB to understand rates, derivatives, and integrals​

  • Science​

    • Classes such as Chemistry and Physics are the most helpful as they teach some basics of engineering.​

  • Electives​

    • Take any engineering-related courses, but those that include hydraulics, pneumatics, materials science, and gearing are the most helpful.

High School Clubs

  • *All club suggestions are subject to variation due to specific high school offerings*

  • Robotics

    • Robotics is a great introduction into the hands on world of engineering where one can practice methods that real engineers use.

  • Any aviation/aerospace clubs

    • These clubs are great and can teach you many things about aerospace, or can provide you with fun activities that encourage your interest.

  • Your own club

    • Identify any missing spots in ur school's aerospace offerings! The best thing you can do is create your own club to showcase your knowledge and have fun with a community.​​​​​​

Volunteering & Internship Links

  1. NASA Volunteer Program

    • NASA offers a range of volunteer opportunities, from internships to mentorship programs, and community engagement.

    • NASA Volunteer

  2. Aerospace Corporation

    • They provide opportunities for students and professionals to get involved in aerospace projects through volunteering, internships, and mentoring programs.

    • Aerospace Corporation

  3. Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA)

    • EAA runs a variety of volunteer programs focused on aviation and aerospace, including events like AirVenture, where volunteers help with organizing, flying, and supporting aviation education.

    • EAA Volunteer Opportunities

  4. Volunteering opportunities at Air and Space Museums

    • The museum offers volunteer opportunities for those interested in aviation, space history, and museum education.

    • National Air and Space Museum Volunteers

  5. The Mars Society

    • This nonprofit organization is dedicated to the exploration and eventual settlement of Mars, and they offer various volunteer positions for those interested in space exploration.

    • Mars Society

  6. SpaceX Volunteer Programs

    • SpaceX occasionally offers volunteer opportunities for outreach programs, community education, and career development in aerospace.

    • SpaceX Careers

  7. AeroClub of Southern California

    • They offer opportunities for volunteering in aviation events, aviation education programs, and other aerospace-related activities.

    • AeroClub of Southern California

  8. Student Spaceflight Experiential Learning Program (SSEL)

    • This program connects students with hands-on aerospace projects, including opportunities to volunteer with real-world space missions.

    • SSEL

  9. Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL)

    • JPL offers a variety of volunteer programs and internships to students and young professionals interested in working on space missions.

    • JPL Volunteer Programs

  10. American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA)

  • AIAA provides volunteer opportunities to engage in aerospace-related events, conferences, and educational outreach.

  • AIAA Volunteer Opportunities

Join an Existing American Rocketry Challenge Team(TARC)

  1. Check your school: Ask your STEM, physics, or engineering teacher. Many schools participate through clubs like Science Olympiad, Robotics, or Aerospace.

  2. Find local teams via NAR:



Gain Junior HPR Level 1 Participation Certificate — Overview

🎯 Purpose

To give students under 18 the opportunity to:

  • Gain hands-on experience with H- or I-class motors.

  • Build and prep rockets according to high-power standards.

  • Launch under the direct supervision of a certified adult flier (Level 2 or 3).

  • Document the experience and get recognized by NAR.

✅ Eligibility

  • Ages: 14–17 years old.

  • Must be a current NAR Junior Member.

  • Must work with an NAR Level 2 or 3 certified mentor who acts as the supervising flier.

  • The adult launches the rocket; the student builds and preps it.

📋 Requirements

  1. Design and build a high-power rocket suitable for an H or I motor.

  2. Conduct pre-flight checks under mentor supervision.

  3. Fly the rocket successfully (stable flight, safe recovery).

  4. Complete the official documentation, including:

    • Flight log

    • Safety checklist

    • Construction photos

    • Mentor endorsement

🧾 Outcome

  • Receive an official NAR certificate showing Junior HPR Level 1 Participation.

  • It does not grant motor-buying privileges, but is an excellent credential for:

    • College rocketry teams

    • Future Level 1 full certification (age 18+)

    • STEM/college applications

🔗 Resources

  • NAR Program Page (PDF guide):
    https://www.nar.org/pdf/HPRJuniorParticipationProgram.pdf

  • NAR Membership:
    https://www.nar.org/join-nar/

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