Mae Jemison Facts For Kids
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Mae Jemison is an extraordinary person who has achieved impressive things in her life. She became the first African-American astronaut to go into space, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to her accomplishments. Here are some interesting Mae Jemison facts that kids might find fascinating.
Early Life
Mae Carol Jemison was born on October 17, 1956, in Decatur, Alabama. She was the youngest of three children, and her parents were both involved in education. The family moved to Chicago when Jemison was three years old, and that’s where she spent most of her childhood. When she was a young girl, Jemison became interested in space, partly due to watching Star Trek on TV.
Education
Mae Jemison was a smart student who excelled in science and math. She went to Stanford University when she was only 16 years old and earned a degree in chemical engineering. After that, she earned a medical degree from Cornell University. Jemison also has a black belt in martial arts and is fluent in several languages, including Swahili, Russian, and Japanese.
Career
Jemison worked as a doctor for several years before she was selected as an astronaut by NASA in 1987. She flew on the Space Shuttle Endeavour in 1992, becoming the first African-American woman in space. Jemison left NASA in 1993 and became a professor of environmental studies at Dartmouth College, as well as an entrepreneur and advocate for science education.
Achievements and Awards
Mae Jemison has been the recipient of many awards and honors throughout her life. She has been inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame and the International Space Hall of Fame. In addition, Jemison has received the National Science Foundation’s Presidential Young Investigator Award and the Kilby International Award, among others.
Personal Life
Mae Jemison is an accomplished person who has achieved a great deal in her life. However, she is also a human being who enjoys many of the same things as others. In her personal life, Jemison has been known to enjoy dancing, gardening, and horseback riding.
Conclusion
Mae Jemison is an inspiring person who has broken barriers and achieved impressive things in her life. She is a role model for kids who are interested in science and space exploration. By learning about Jemison’s life and accomplishments, kids can see that anything is possible with hard work, dedication, and a little bit of courage.