“I have always been fascinated with biology in the extreme, such as in microgravity conditions. During my master’s training, I was accepted to the Space Studies Program of International Space University, which allowed me to learn more about space biology and introduced me to the pioneers of this field. During my PhD, I got to be a mentor in the Genes in Space (GiS) program. A wonderful experience, and an amazing responsibility! This unique program asks high school students to propose experiments to be implemented on the International Space Station to expand the capacity for independent scientific research in orbit and beyond. Through the years, GiS pioneered many first molecular biology experiments in space. Through GiS, I met an extraordinary group of students with whom I still preserve deeply meaningful bonds. I learned that one’s potential can only be realized with the guidance of key mentors in life, and I was lucky to have truly extraordinary mentors along the way. The relationship of a mentor and a mentee is one where both sides can experience the joy of discovery together. For both sides, the shared experiences are singular gifts, in which knowledge, perspectives, and unique ways of seeing this world are transferred."