Hi José,
Research Scholar - Aerospace Engineering Project Associate
NASA Ames Research Center - contracted through SJSU Research Foundation
📍 Mountain View, California
Tell us a bit about yourself.
“Hey! My name is José and I am an Aerospace Engineer recently graduated from Delft University of Technology. I am passionate about robotics and artificial intelligence and yearn to participate in tech projects of worldwide impact in the next step of my career. Next to my work you will find me on the tennis court, the swimming pool or preparing for the next marathon.”
Describe your role within the NASA Ames Research Center. What exciting projects are you involved in?
“Currently I am working for the San Jose State University Research Foundation as a research scholar collaborating with researchers here at NASA Ames Research Center in Mountain View. I am part of the Airspace Operations Lab, and our work is focused on the integration of new vehicles in the current airspace, such as drones, Urban Air Mobility or air taxis, balloons and High Altitude Long Endurance (HALEs) vehicles.
In my case, I am mostly focused on drones. Nowadays, one of the main reasons why we do not see drones flying in urban areas is that they are constrained to the visual line of sight of the pilot. So, during my time here, I will be working on a project in collaboration with the FAA and industry that will help realize scalable Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone operations such that vehicles can be piloted from a distance or fly autonomously.”
How do you reflect on your past few months in the US?
“Reflecting on the past 5 months in the US, I can say that it has been an incredible journey of growth, learning, and exploration. As a Spanish aerospace engineering graduate from Delft University of Technology, the opportunity to work for the San Jose State University Research Foundation as a research scholar collaborating with researchers at NASA Ames Research Center in California has been nothing short of a dream come true.
During my time in the Bay Area, I was deeply impressed by the emphasis on networking and professional development. I had the chance to attend various events organized by European consulates and professional networks. One standout experience was being invited as a panelist at an event hosted by the Spanish Chamber of Commerce, where I had the opportunity to share my knowledge on AI and its societal impacts. The transformative impact of generative AI and the diverse perspectives brought forth engaging and thought-provoking conversations.
From collaborating with NASA Ames researchers to exploring the wonders of California, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities and experiences this research scholar position has provided so far. To all the aspiring students considering an internship in the US, particularly in the Bay Area, I can say that this experience will leave an indelible mark on your life and career.”
Have you had a chance to explore the Bay Area?
“One of the most enriching aspects of my experience has been the chance to immerse myself in the Bay Area's diverse culture. Exploring San Francisco, a city known for its iconic landmarks like Alcatraz and the famous cable cars, was a delightful experience. I found great joy in walking around Pier 39 and witnessing the vibrant life along the waterfront. The opportunity to ride in Cruise autonomous cars in this tech-savvy city was also a thrilling glimpse into the future of transportation.
Beyond the city of San Francisco, I have had the privilege of visiting several museums, each offering a unique perspective on science, history, and innovation. The California Academy of Sciences and the Computer History Museum were particularly fascinating, and they provided me with valuable insights into the region's contributions to various fields.”
We hear you’ve been exploring a lot of California recently! Where have you visited?
“Yeah, I had the chance to explore the natural wonders of California. A road trip to San Diego, passing through Big Sur, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, Malibu, and Pasadena, was an awe-inspiring journey. Visiting the USS Midway Museum in San Diego and experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of Santa Monica Pier and Hollywood were truly memorable moments.
I have also indulged in outdoor activities, both in winter and summer. Skiing in the breathtaking Lake Tahoe during winter and hiking at Yosemite National Park during summer provided me with a perfect balance of adventure and serenity. Back in May, the other Internships in the Valley Fellows and I enjoyed the beautiful views hiking around Stinson Beach with a refreshing final dip into the sea and had a blast catching some waves in Santa Cruz.”
Have you experienced any big culture shocks moving to the US?
“Embracing culture shocks with a positive mindset has been crucial in making the most of my experience. While I initially noticed that the US is predominantly a car-oriented country, I adapted and discovered the joy of road trips and exploring the vast landscapes. Socializing has its challenges here in the Bay Area due to the dispersed nature of friends, but it has encouraged me to be proactive in planning gatherings. Nevertheless, I must admit that there is nothing that resembles the joy of being able to ride my bike anywhere in the Netherlands, from doing groceries in Delft to riding to Scheveningen for the sunset with some friends.
However, a culture shock I can personally not get over is the tipping culture in the US, which has always been perplexing to me. Why don't business owners include taxes and tips in the menu prices instead of adding them at the end? Moreover, tipping, originally meant to reward exceptional service, has now become an expected norm, making some waiters' attitudes feel forced as their primary focus is on securing a high tip. This shift is partly due to the policy of low waiter salaries being supplemented by tips, usually oscillating between 15-20% of the bill! A more transparent approach, incorporating all costs upfront, could alleviate confusion and pressure around tipping while restoring its true meaning as an appreciation for outstanding service, creating a more authentic dining experience for everyone.”
How would you compare work and life culture between the US, Spain and the Netherlands?
🇺🇸 American work culture:
“One of the most striking aspects of the American work culture is the "let's do it" attitude. People in Silicon Valley are driven by a spirit of experimentation, embracing the idea of "failing fast" and iterating until they achieve success. This risk-taking mentality fosters innovation and fuels the pursuit of groundbreaking advancements. The freedom to experiment and take calculated risks has led to some of the most remarkable technological advancements in history, inspiring professionals from around the world to contribute to this thriving ecosystem. A clear example has been the unconventional constant testing philosophy of SpaceX in the aerospace sector.
People here don't shy away from putting in extra hours or working weekends, especially in tech hubs like Silicon Valley, because they are rewarded with competitive salaries and valuable career growth opportunities. This level of dedication often blurs the lines between professional and personal life, but it also encourages camaraderie and a shared commitment to excellence.”
🇪🇺 European work culture:
“In contrast, European work cultures, including those in Spain and the Netherlands, tend to prioritize a healthy work-life balance. With more generous holiday allowances, employees have the opportunity to travel, spend time with loved ones, and pursue hobbies outside of work. This emphasis on leisure and personal time fosters a sense of well-being and contributes to overall job satisfaction.
Furthermore, European workplaces often place value on meticulous planning and well-defined structures. Careful preparation and attention to detail are foundational to their approach, allowing for a thoughtful and measured execution of projects. This mindset may lead to a slightly slower pace of progress compared to the US "move fast and break things" mentality, but it also ensures a solid foundation for sustainable growth.”
🇳🇱 Dutch work culture:
“Finally, one point that sets the Netherlands apart is its stronger focus on open communication, egalitarianism, and teamwork. These core values facilitate fast decision-making, encourage the employees to make decisions independently, resulting in heightened morale and job satisfaction, and fosters a collaborative work culture. In contrast, Spain and the United States tend to retain a more traditional hierarchy-based organizational structure. Of course, this cannot be generalized to every company or organization, but it represents the general trend that I have observed.”
In summary:
“Having experienced the work cultures of both Europe and the United States, I find that a fusion of these diverse perspectives can be immensely powerful. By incorporating the American spirit of innovation and willingness to take risks with the European commitment to work-life balance and structured planning, we can create an environment that nurtures both creativity and well-being.
“To all the aspiring students considering an internship in the US, particularly in the Bay Area, I can say that this experience will leave an indelible mark on your life and career.”
