Jemison was born in Decatur, Alabama, in 1956. She attended Stanford University, where she majored in chemical engineering and African-American studies. After graduating from Stanford, Jemison worked as a chemical engineer for several years. She then attended medical school at Cornell University, where she earned her M.D. degree in 1981.
After completing medical school, Jemison joined the Peace Corps and served as a medical officer in Sierra Leone. She later worked as a physician at a hospital in Los Angeles. In 1987, Jemison was selected as a candidate for the astronaut program by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). She completed her astronaut training in 1988 and became the first African American woman to travel into space in 1992.
During her time as an astronaut, Jemison flew on two space shuttle missions. She also conducted experiments in the fields of materials science and medicine. In 1993, Jemison left NASA and returned to work as a physician and professor. She has since written several books and has also worked as a science communicator and advocate for diversity in science and engineering.
Jemison's life and career are an inspiration to people of all backgrounds. She has shown that it is possible for African Americans to achieve success in science and technology, and she has also worked to promote diversity and inclusion in these fields. Jemison is a role model for young people who are interested in pursuing careers in science and engineering, and she is a reminder of the importance of representation and diversity in all fields.