ABSTRACT
This chapter follows my journey through life in relation to both LGBTQ+ and STEM identities. When represented in the form of a graph, this journey included local minima and maxima in how affirmed and validated my multiple LGBTQ+ identities were within a STEM context. In particular, I explore the vital role that allyship played in creating the maxima on the graph and showcase examples of how people in my life became supportive allies and mentors to me as an queer-identified STEMist. I hope that readers take away from my story that impactful moments of allyship need not be perfectly orchestrated grand gestures; sometimes it only takes a few minutes or one brief conversation to affirm someone's sense of belonging and reveal the true humanity of STEM.
