At the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine’s Department of Behavioral and Social Science and Education, I have a unique opportunity to use my academic skills to produce high-quality research on a variety of novel topics. My research spans such diverse areas as funding mechanisms at various levels of government, the needs of children acquiring two languages, and possible causes of poor mental health in disadvantaged communities. I have the opportunity to interact with world-class experts who debate critical issues to advise the nation.