<p>As a former space camp counselor, who's gotten to have dinner with multiple astronauts, I can attest that they are awesome. Most of them are those people are phenomenal at everything they try, but you can't hate them because they're also the most friendly, nicest people you've ever met, people who would do anything for you.</p>
<p>When NASA puts out a call for applicants for astronaut positions usually gets between 5-6k, and a big astronaut class will be 25-30 people...It's definitely an intense selection process. One of my major life goals is to be accomplished enough to even think about applying and having a shot at getting interviewed. I don't even need to get an interview, just getting to the equivalent of a secondary application would be enough for me...</p>
<p>I agree with Shades. 'People skills' need to be cultivated. Very few among us are born with these skills. Most others cultivate the skill.</p>
<p>The best quote about people skills I have found was from the Pride and Prejudice. Elizabeth mentions that social skills are similar to playing a piano. You are awkward at first, you miss some keys.....but the more you play, the better you get at it.</p>
<p>So, don't be intimidated by jobs that require interaction with people. These days, there is almost NOTHING you can do without interacting with people. Nearly every area requires people skills. Cultivate these skills by taking jobs that throw you in the thick of things. I think that waiting tables which would be looked down upon by most intellectuals is actually an excellent exercise in learning people skills. So are mundane jobs like being a cashier at a shop. They teache you 'life skills'</p>