Nirali Thakkar joined a PCORI-funded project in December of 2021, and it was her first exposure to true patient-centered outcomes research (PCOR). Previously, she had sensed gaps and shortcomings of research through previous lab experiences; she knew something was wrong, and yet could not figure out how it could be replaced with something better. She has found her involvement with PCORI so far has provided her with insight. As a social work student, Nirali has seen how PCORI’s values fit into research and they can lift up communities and help them to see in real time the impact their voices have, rather than being subjects of a project. Nirali is motivated to increase her knowledge and continue her growth.