Abstract
Science policy focuses on the allocation of resources within the scientific enterprise and the downstream impacts of these investments. Here, I describe my journey from being a curious kid, to becoming a signaling biologist, to my current role as a science policy professional focusing on the areas of biomedical research training, workforce diversity, and promoting basic research. I provide insights on skills important in this career track-collaboration, diplomacy, adaptability, and resilience. Finally, I share the vision that animates my work-"science by all, science for all"-and encourage you with the career advice my mother gave: "never self-eliminate."