I don't know why I always liked aerospace engineering. I was in the 10th grade when I figured that's what I wanted to do.

I was interested in aerospace and flying, and the U.S. is really the best place in the world for flying.

The coolest thing for me is the experience of floating and not feeling my weight. And hanging by a window just after sunset and watching the stars in the big black dome of the sky as the earth moves underneath.

When you look at the stars and the galaxy, you feel that you are not just from any particular piece of land, but from the solar system.

Some of the senior people, the very senior astronauts, shook my hand and said, 'K.C., you did a great job. Don't let anyone tell you different.'

The path from dreams to success does exist. May you have the vision to find it, the courage to get on to it, and the perseverance to follow it. Wishing you a great journey.

I don't know why I always liked aerospace engineering. I was in the 10th grade when I figured that's what I wanted to do.