Rockledge High Graduate Named Space Education Scholar
MELBOURNE, FLA. — Florida Tech junior Edward Schwieterman of Viera has earned a 2008 Universities Space Research Association (USRA) Education Scholarship of
$1,000. Also, at the university’s Honors Convocation last spring, Schwieterman, an astronomy/astrophysics major, was named Outstanding Junior.
To earn the scholarship applicants must carry a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.50. Selections are also based on the applicants’ career goals
and related leadership activities. “Eddie is one of our very best students, a real leader, and we’re extremely pleased that USRA has chosen to recognize
his accomplishments,” said Terry Oswalt, head of the Florida Tech Department of Physics and Space Sciences.
He wrote in his scholarship application: “I’m studying astronomy and astrophysics because I’ve seen how scientists can pierce the veil of mystery
surrounding the natural world armed with the tools of science: observation, empirical inquiry and advanced technology. I’m applying for the scholarship
because I wish to join their ranks, study the universe and inspire others to do the same.”
Schwieterman has conducted undergraduate research under Florida Tech Assistant Professor Niescja Turner, studying geomagnetic storms and magnetospheric
physics. He also has been a volunteer coach for the Brevard County Collaborative High School Science Bowl Team the past two years.
He participated in a summer 2008 internship with the Southeastern Association for Research in Astronomy (SARA). With his mentor, Florida Tech Professor
Matt Wood, he observed cataclysmic variable stars using the university’s new Ortega 0.8-m Telescope, the largest research telescope in Florida.
Schweiterman produced a research paper from his summer project, which will be published in the Journal for the Southeastern Association for Research in
Astronomy in 2009. He is a 2006 graduate of Rockledge High School.
The purpose of the USRA Scholarship Program is to provide college scholarships to students who have shown a career interest in the physical sciences or
engineering with an emphasis on space research or space science education. For more information on the scholarship, visit:
http://www.usra.edu/cs/usra_scholarship_program “
