Ellen Galinsky
Chief Science Officer
Bezos Family Foundation
Santa Fe, NM USA
“It’s about knowing what your passions are and following the questions that you have.”
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By Roadtrip NationEllen Galinsky
Milestones
My road in life has been direct.
I grew up in West Virginia, which didn’t have great schooling options for me, but my mother constantly inspired me to learn and work hard.
I had no idea what I wanted to do when I was younger—but I’m glad I didn’t know because it left me more open to the different opportunities life brings.
I studied to be a lawyer, but when I was a sophomore in college, I realized I was unhappy with my courses because I was constantly stuck in the library—I wanted my learning to be more balanced.
After realizing how unhappy I was, I pleaded with a child development professor—I had always been interested in childhood learning—to let me into one of her courses, which completely changed my life.
I switched my major to child studies and worked as a researcher along with my peers, as the field was relatively new—most professionals had been more interested in studying adults.
As a senior in college, I went to conferences to figure out which sectors held the professionals I respected most and would want to work with.
After graduating from Vassar College, I went on to get my master’s degree in education and child development.
In addition to serving as chief science officer for the Bezos Family Foundation and president of the Families and Work Institute, I’ve published multiple books, including “Six Stages of Parenthood.”
Keep following my journey
Education
High School
Career
Chief Science Officer
I listen to the voices of children and families in order to develop research reports.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Education
Science
Helping People
Day to Day
My work focuses on identifying important societal questions as they emerge in the adult, children, and family sectors. I conduct research to answer those questions based on the voices on children and families. I will then turn my findings into action by authoring educational and informative books, articles, and reports.
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for everyone
Find the subjects you're most passionate about and follow the questions you have in those fields. Find the people who hold the same spark as you and work alongside them. Work is about being able to support yourself but it's also very important to do what you love and have a purpose and passion.
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Society in General:
"Women shouldn't be taken as seriously as men."
Challenges I Overcame
Socio-Economic Origin
Changed Major
