Jessica Jittu
Hometown: Bangalore, India and Abu Dhabi, UAE
Major: Astrodynamics and Space Applications
Why did you choose Aeronautics and Astronautics?
I’m passionate about sustainable spacecraft and space debris mitigation, which align with my entrepreneurial dreams of developing innovative solutions in this field and Purdue’s resources and opportunities are helping me achieve these goals.
Best event or organization you’ve participated in within AAE?
Women in Aerospace (specifically, the Amelia Earhart Summit)
Best event or organization you’ve participated in outside of AAE?
Purdue Grand Prix & Purdue Aviation Day
Why did you want to be an AAE Ambassador?
Be an inspiration and talk to prospective boilermaker families
Favorite place on campus?
Slayter Hill, first floor of Armstrong Hall, outside the MSEE building
Favorite class you’ve taken thus far and why?
ME 199, this class helped me hone my engineering skills and love Aero/Mech Eng.
What is one piece of advice you would give to a potential AAE student?
Embrace every opportunity to learn, both inside and outside the classroom, and don't hesitate to seek guidance—Purdue’s AAE community is incredibly supportive and will help you grow in ways you never imagined.
Who is someone you look up to in the Aero/Astro industry and why?
I look up to my peers and seniors who were once in my shoes and have since achieved great heights in the Aero/Astro industry. Their journeys inspire me, showing that with dedication and passion, it’s possible to make a significant impact in this field.
What motivates you to succeed?
What motivates me to succeed is knowing that my family and my younger self would be incredibly proud to see how far I’ve come and what I’ve achieved.
What is your ultimate career goal?
To develop innovative and sustainable technologies for space exploration that contribute to the future of human spaceflight and help address critical challenges like space debris.
What do you like to do when you’re not studying/in the lab or classroom?
I enjoy stargazing at Slayter Hill, playing sports at the campus recreation facilities, ice skating during the winter, and staying actively involved in various aerospace and non-aerospace clubs.