Why Your Personal Story Is Important and Tips for Sharing It

Your personal story is the foundation of your advocacy and outreach efforts, regardless of your scientific background. Learn how to cater your story to this audience — elected officials — and how it differs from speaking with colleagues or the public. This video includes an example of a direct comparison between a collegial introduction to other scientists and an elevator pitch that’s used on Capitol Hill.

This video will cover:

• Key elements to an effective research story.
• How to be memorable among many other advocates and priorities by putting a face to research funding.
• Ways to update your scientific elevator pitch for a conversation with a Congressional office.

SfN is dedicated to helping you continue to grow as an advocate whether you’re brand new or have years of experience. Learn more at sfn.org/advocacy or email advocacy@sfn.org for assistance.

For more advice, explore these resources:

The Power of a Good Anecdote: Lessons from SfN’s Capitol Hill Day

How to Be a Science Advocate

Leveraging Public Opinion in Support of Science

Speaker

Adam Katz

Adam Katz is the director of Advocacy and Training at the Society for Neuroscience, where he oversees organizational legislative and advocacy efforts, scientific training and professional development programs, and diversity efforts. He previously held positions at the American Society for Microbiology, Research!America, the University of California at Irvine, and the National Institute of Mental Health. Katz's primary research interests lie in neural plasticity. He received his undergraduate degree in brain and cognitive science from the University of Rochester and his master’s in policy and advocacy from Georgetown University.