Kelsey Bruce ’19 worked alongside policy makers in Washington, D.C., on scientific issues as a participant in the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology’s (ASBMB) Capitol Hill Day.
“It was an amazing opportunity for me to get hands-on experience engaging in both science communication and advocacy in public policy,” Bruce, a biochemistry major, said. “It was eye opening to see how representatives interact with constituents.”
Every year, the ASBMB brings science trainees from across the country to meet with congressional leaders in Washington, D.C. The fully funded opportunity gives trainees the chance to promote scientific research by directly interacting with policymakers. Bruce and other attendees took part in an orientation session focused on the federal budget process and effective communication with members of Congress, and traveled to Capitol Hill to meet with representatives and congressional staff.
Bruce also had the opportunity to network with Ph.D. candidates, professors, policy makers, undergraduates and leaders from across the country.
“I learned about different career options and ways to incorporate advocacy and science communication into my career,” she said. “This was one of the most valuable experiences I’ve had while at Linfield.”
The ASBMB is a nonprofit scientific and educational organization with a mission is to advance the science of biochemistry and molecular biology.
