You ask a kid what he wants to be when he grows up and you would get answers like "I want to be an astronaut." Now, if this was your kid, how would you prepare him for such a career? Most parents are disheartened if they hear this kind of talk. Maybe because they cannot afford the education their kid needs.

In a way, it is not that difficult to become an astronaut. All it takes is hard work and the right attitude. As well as knowing what NASA and SpaceX are looking for.

For instance. What is the best degree that an astronaut should take? According to NASA, if you want to be qualified for the Astronaut Candidate program, you should choose a field of study that is of interest to YOU. NASA does not want to recommend which one is better over the other. But they do note that the qualifying fields should be under Engineering, Biological Science, Computer Science, Mathematics and Physical Science.

If you get stranded on Mars, you need to know how to survive using science and mathematics. Like that movie where the actor used his teammates' feces to grow potatoes on Martian soil. Remember that?

If you now have a degree in mind. You might be wondering which college or university is best for you to reach your Astronautical goals! NASA does not have a specific school that can become an exception. For NASA, as long as the college or university you attend is an accredited institution, then that should be fine.

Plus, you do not need flying experience to apply but having one is still advantageous.

Most importantly, you have to be in fit physical health. NASA and SpaceX needs people who can respond to dangerous situations and therefore must be physically equipped. And if you find that you are not yet ready to join other astronauts in space, you can get a feel for it when you intern in a company like SpaceX.