I was just excited to have challenging
“
I was just excited to have challenging work to do
and smart people to work with.
”
Meaning
This quote means meaningful work becomes a joy when it is intellectually demanding and shared with capable people.
About Author
Katherine Johnson
Katherine Johnson was an African-American mathematician whose calculations were critical to NASA’s space missions, including the Apollo moon landing. Her quotes often reflect precision, perseverance, and innovation. Johnson inspires scientists, students, and women in STEM to overcome barriers, pursue excellence, and contribute to groundbreaking achievements.
Related Quotes
“ Take all the courses in your curriculum. Do the research. Ask questions. Find someone doing what you are interested in! Be curious! ”
This quote means students should actively explore, ask questions, and seek mentors instead of waiting passively for direction. Curiosity creates opportunity.
“ I liked working with smart people. ”
This quote means intellectual companionship was one of the pleasures of her career. Smart collaboration made work rewarding.
“ Let me do it. You tell me when you want it and where you want it to land, and I'll do it backwards and tell you when to take off. ”
This quote expresses total confidence in mathematical skill. It means she trusted her calculations enough to build a mission around them.