Statement of research interests for Matt Hawkins

When I started college, I decided to enroll in the aerospace engineering program because of my lifelong interest in science, and space science in particular. I am now in my eighth semester of undergraduate work, and my interest in space exploration has remained strong. In addition to this field, I have been able to learn about other aspects of aerospace engineering, including aerodynamics, structures, and controls. I have also had training in systems engineering on a cooperative education experience.

My primary interests for further education and research are in the areas of astrodynamics, controls, and spacecraft systems. I am interested in the problem of the space mission, including the overall system design, as well as the trajectory and control of the craft on that trajectory. Specific topics may include calculation of optimal orbits, design and implementation of spacecraft control systems, and analysis of spacecraft missions from a systems perspective including feasibility, cost, mission lifetime, and more. In line with these interests, I have been taking courses in astrodynamics, controls, and spacecraft systems.

In addition to these research topics, I am interested in pursuing higher education with the goal of becoming a professor so that I may teach students at the college level. My father is an elementary school teacher, and while growing up, I have always been interested not only in learning, but also in imparting knowledge to others. In the future, I may be interested in developing effective teaching methods.