From Early College to NASA: PSJA ISD Alumna Jessica Zamarripa’s Stellar Journey 

PHARR – Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Independent School District (PSJA ISD) celebrates the achievements of alumna Jessica Zamarripa, who is contributing to NASA’s International Space Station and human spaceflight missions through the NASA Pathways Internship Program. Currently a Ph.D. student in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Texas A&M University, Jessica continues to advance in her academic and professional pursuits. 

During her time at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX, Jessica worked closely with the power and battery safety team under the Power and Propulsion Division. Her dedication and performance earned her both the 2024 Johnson Space Center CO-OPS Award and the 2024 On the Spot Award—prestigious honors recognizing her outstanding contributions to NASA’s mission. 

Jessica's journey began at PSJA T. Jefferson T-STEM Early College High School, where she was part of the Early College Program. While at PSJA, she earned an Associate Degree in Mathematics from South Texas College, setting the foundation for her continued academic success. Her commitment to education and excellence was recognized early on when she was featured in the PSJA Student Profile series in 2016. 

“PSJA provided me with the opportunity to begin taking college courses while in high school which helped my transition from a high school student to a university student. Many college students during their freshman year struggle with that,” said the PSJA Alumna. “For me, I was already conditioned to balance and manage my time, not only with my courses, but also my extracurricular activities.” 

For Jessica, working at NASA Johnson Space Center as a graduate student trainee under the NASA Pathways Program has been an incredible experience, rich with challenges, knowledge sharing, and strong team support. Her mentors, supervisor, and program coordinators have made her feel welcomed and valued, offering guidance that nurtures her growth in her chosen profession. 

PSJA ISD is incredibly proud of Jessica's accomplishments and her role as an inspiration to current students. Her journey from earning an Associate Degree in high school to serving at NASA exemplifies the power of education and perseverance. 

“At PSJA, the dual enrollment program allowed me to earn my associate’s degree free of charge,” shared Jessica. “I strongly advise students to take the opportunities that PSJA offers because they provide you with the tools and resources that you need to be successful.”   

PSJA ISD is an open enrollment school district serving over 30,000 students. The district welcomes students living anywhere in the Rio Grande Valley. Parents interested in having their children take advantage of the Early College opportunities can learn more at www.psjaisd.us/academies.   

                                                                       ### 

Photos: Materials Science & Engineering, Texas A&M University 

About Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD 

Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD is a tri-city public school district in South Texas offering a comprehensive Pre-K to 12th-grade curriculum, including an award-winning Early College Program. Committed to “College for All, Equity for All,” PSJA ISD empowers every student with the academic and social skills needed to succeed in higher education and beyond.