The academia has a severe class problem (see here and here), dramatically underrepresenting individuals from poor socioeconomic backgrounds. Growing up myself in a low-caste, low-income, slum-like neighborhood in India, my view as a PI is that hardships may instill grit, perseverance, and a strong work ethic, all of which are critical for a successful scientific career. We thus actively recruit individuals from poor socioeconomic background and request that prospective applicants highlight any disadvantaged upbringing in their application. The laboratory’s past trainees have been raised in households of bricklayers, cooks, farmers, cab drivers, shopkeepers, and low-caste or rural neighborhoods, so don’t hide your socioeconomic upbringing—we welcome you with open arms, and it will be our privilege to work with you!