NATCHEZ — For Taylor Davis, his dreams really are aiming for the moon.

The Natchez High School senior, who was recently named a STAR — Student-Teacher Achievement Recognition — student by the M.B. Swayze Educational Foundation, plans to study mechanical engineering at Louisiana Tech University.

“I think that would be challenging, that it would be a lot of fun,” Davis said.

But why Davis wants to study mechanical engineering is what points his goals heavenward.

“I want to get into aerospace engineering, which is pretty much rocket science,” he said.

Having already done some research into how to get involved with the space program, Davis said if he can’t work with NASA, he’s willing to work with one of the emerging private space programs.

“I’m really interested in technology and trying to make things work better,” he said.

STAR students are recognized for academic achievement, which in Davis’ case means a 29 on the ACT and a 93 GPA.

But Davis isn’t only interested in academics.

For five years, he has played soccer, and received the most valuable defense player for two years in a row in 2006 and 2007.

When he gets to Louisiana Tech, Davis said he plans to try out for the soccer team, but grades will be a priority.

“If my grades start to slide, that’ll be it for the soccer,” he said.

When school ends, Davis said he would spend his summer working at his job at the Piggly Wiggly and saving money to eventually buy a new car.

Davis has also received a scholarship from the Lion’s Club, as well as an out-of-state fee waiver and an academic achievement scholarship from Louisiana Tech.