Story

**Stella and the Secret Space Lab** Once upon a time, in the bustling halls of UCLA, there was a girl named Stella who had a secret. Tucked away in the Earth, Planetary, and Space Sciences (EPSS) department, she discovered a hidden door marked with a small, mysterious symbol of a star. With her heart pounding and her curiosity piqued, Stella pushed the door open and stepped into a world she had never imagined: a secret space lab buzzing with activity! The room was filled with real scientists! They were peering into telescopes, typing furiously on computers, and scribbling equations on enormous whiteboards. The walls were lined with posters of planets, moons, and galaxies far, far away. Stella’s eyes widened with wonder as she tiptoed further inside. “Wow,” she whispered to herself. “This is amazing!” Just then, a friendly scientist named Dr. Zara noticed Stella’s awe. “Hello there!” she said with a warm smile. “What brings you to our space lab?” Stella hesitated for a moment, but her curiosity soon took over. “I just found the door by accident, but I love space! Can I help with something?” Dr. Zara beamed. “Of course! We’re always looking for enthusiastic explorers. Why don’t you join our team?” With a mixture of excitement and nervousness, Stella nodded eagerly. She was going to be part of a real scientific team! She couldn’t wait to learn and work alongside these amazing scientists. Dr. Zara introduced Stella to the team. There was Dr. Leo, who specialized in asteroids, and Dr. Maya, an expert in Martian geology. Stella felt a flutter of nervousness as she met each of them, but she confidently introduced herself and expressed her eagerness to help. “Welcome aboard, Stella!” said Dr. Maya. “We’re working on a project to map the surface of Mars. We could use your help in organizing the photos we’ve received from the Mars rover. It’s like a giant jigsaw puzzle!” Stella’s eyes sparkled with excitement. She loved puzzles! As she worked, she asked questions about the photos and how they were taken. The scientists appreciated her curiosity and explained everything patiently, showing her how scientific thinking was just like solving a mystery. One afternoon, Stella noticed something odd in one of the photos. “Hey, everyone!” she called out, gathering the team. “I found a strange pattern in the Martian soil. Could it be something important?” The scientists crowded around, impressed by Stella’s observation. “Great job spotting that!” said Dr. Leo. “You’ve discovered an unusual rock formation that could tell us more about Mars’s history. Let’s investigate further!” Feeling proud and confident, Stella realized that her questions and observations were valuable to the team. Her willingness to speak up and share her ideas was making a real difference. As the weeks went by, Stella learned more about space and science than she ever imagined. She loved being part of a team where everyone shared responsibilities and worked together towards a common goal. Whenever someone needed help, she was quick to lend a hand, and the team always encouraged and supported each other. One day, Dr. Zara called the team together. “Stella, your hard work and honesty have inspired us all. You’ve shown great initiative, and your imagination has opened new doors for our research. We’d like to invite you to present our findings at a special event!” Stella was thrilled but also a little nervous about speaking in front of a crowd. However, she knew she could do it. With the support of her team, she practiced her speech, embracing the opportunity to share her passion for space with others. On the day of the presentation, Stella confidently stepped onto the stage, her heart full of wonder and excitement. She spoke about the incredible discoveries they’d made and how teamwork and curiosity had led them there. When the crowd erupted in applause, Stella felt a warm glow of pride. She realized that by embracing her curiosity and working with her team, she had become a true scientist, ready to explore the mysteries of the universe. And so, Stella’s adventure in the secret space lab became the start of something extraordinary—a lifelong journey of discovery and imagination, where the stars were always within reach.