Michelle Gould
Life Sciences Associate at J.P. Morgan
“Focus on what you love and be honest with yourself.”
Watch the video below to learn what inspires Michelle
Read Michelle’s full profile below
Where did you grow up?
Mequon, WI (a suburb of Milwaukee)
Who was your favorite teacher and why?
My creative writing teacher Mrs. Cicero because she treated us like adults, had open, honest, raw conversations, and taught me to tap into my creative outlets to better myself in high school and beyond.
What inspired you to pursue a career in STEM/Healthcare?
Math and science were always among my favorite classes because I not only found them interesting but also challenging. I found it most rewarding when conquering a math problem or science experiment and I wanted to be able to apply that effort/reward model to a full-time career.
What were your moments of fear/challenges in your career?
I have felt challenged when I meet a complex company, be it with a scientific platform I don’t understand, or a sophisticated financial structure that I am not aware of. It can be daunting to have conversations with companies like these where you feel you are expected to be an expert. Especially in a male-dominated field, it can be an intimidating spot. However, I have learned it is okay to not know everything from the onset. That’s the importance of asking questions and starting a conversation. So much more is uncovered that way which ends up benefiting all parties.
What are some of the innovations in science that you are most excited about?
I am very fortunate in that my role allows me to meet new companies every day that are on the front lines of healthcare and scientific innovation. Be it a new cancer therapy treatment, to a medical device that allows people with mobility issues to wear robotic pants to help them walk, I am excited each day with the companies leading the charge for life sciences innovation. Given the COVID-19 pandemic, I believe our whole society has a new found appreciation and attention to this innovation which is so important for the investment in life sciences go-forward.
What’s next for you?/What would you like to do when you “grow up’? (retire, etc.)/what is something you hope to accomplish in the future?
Helping early-stage companies find their way is what I am most passionate about in my current role. As for what’s next, my ultimate dream would be to run and operate a start-up of my own that helps improve the world and provide a legacy that will long outlive me.
What is your unique talent?
I have loved comedy and making people laugh since a very young age. A few years ago I started doing standup comedy here in Chicago and write jokes still.
Current book/book you love?
I’m reading “How to Win Friends and Influence People” right now. Although written a century ago, it has so many wise pieces of advice for navigating personal and professional relationships.
