Hear from Nicole Majska, YGT for Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality Project Development

Tell us a little about yourself
Like many others working in the space industry today, I grew up watching the skies, ever more intrigued about the vastness of our universe. Born and raised in Slovakia, I completed my Master’s degree at University College London (UCL) in Computer Science, specialising in Virtual Reality.

What encouraged you to apply to become an ESA YGT?
I first heard about the possibility of working at ESA as a YGT at one of the talks given by an ESA staff member at my university in London. Being a huge space enthusiast, it has been my childhood dream to one day work in the space industry, so I immediately saw this as my ticket.

What does your role at ESA entail?
I currently work as a YGT for Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality Project Development, under ESA’s Communication Department. This position has enabled me to focus on the development of my own extensive project: the development of a VR experience that aims to showcase the future Moon settlement concept, in relation to the Artemis Program. In addition, I run smaller projects on the side, all within the field of Extended Reality (XR).

What is working at ESA like, for you?
Working at ESA has been an amazing experience. Surrounded by great minds, young professionals at ESA have the opportunity to continuously learn and grow and always get help when needed. The community of young professionals is very energetic and lively.

Which ESAS establishment are you located at?
I am located in ESRIN, ESA’s establishment in Italy. Living in Rome is a dream, especially due to the vibrant Italian culture and lifestyle.

What is your best memory so far as a YGT?
I had the opportunity to attend the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) in Dubai where, along with other young professionals from both ESA and across the space industry, we presented our work at one of the largest events of the industry.

What has been the biggest challenge for you?
The most difficult and stressful part was getting the position I wanted. Once I was in, all the stress went away, and everyone has been very welcoming and helpful.

What advice do you have for future YGT applicants?
The most important thing for me was to choose the one position that I thought suited me the most, as initially I came across a few that I felt I was qualified for. Make sure to address the job description and requirements directly in your CV and motivation letter. Find something that will make you stand out.

Hear from YGTs

Want to learn more about the work ESA YGTs are doing today? Keep reading about other YGTs and their exciting projects in this two-part article (part one and part two).

How do I apply for a YGT opportunity?

1. Explore our Young Graduate Trainee opportunities here.
2. Select the one opportunity that genuinely interests you and fits best with your educational background. Due to the high number of applications received each year, we can only accept a maximum of two applications per person. Should you apply to more vacancies, all your applications will be disregarded. If your profile is of interest for another position, we will share it with the hiring manager.
3. Register and create your candidate profile with your CV and motivation letter.
4. Apply! You will be able to track the status of your application throughout the process.

Learn more about the YGT Programme.