December 31, 2019

Boredwalk Community: Running for Congress

Elect More Scientists Shirt

Welcome to our weekly Boredwalk Community series, where we ask Boredwalk fans fun questions! This week we're talking to Kiani G. of Spanish Fort AL, showing off an Elect More Scientists shirt.

1. What's your actual day job and what's your dream day job?

I was an Assistant Professor of Biology until May, when I quit to become a full-time candidate for Congress (AL-01). My dream job is to be the host of a public access children's science show. Sort of like a new take on "Mr Wizard." (Ed. note: I want both of these things to happen!)

2. What keeps you up at night?

Climate change and the fact that our federal government isn't doing enough to protect the world that my children will live in. Ditching plastic straws is great, but we need a major overhaul of federal policy.

3. What's the most useful piece of advice you've ever received?

Early is on-time. On-time is late. And late is unacceptable. Thanks, Dad.

4. What experience do you most want to cross off your bucket list?

Right now, all I want is a full night's sleep. But, one day, I'd really like to hug an elephant. (Both admirable goals.)

5. What is a surprising fact about you?

My motorcycle was hit by a car in 2010. I was told that I would never walk again. 10 months later, I was walking. 10 years later, I'm running (for office.) Moral of the story, kids: Don't text and drive. (Wow. Yeah kids, don't do that.)

6. What's a book you think the Boredwalk community should read?

The Rise and Fall of the Dinosaurs by Steve Brusatte. I really liked dinosaurs as a kid, then I "outgrew" them. Now, my youngest son is obsessed with dinosaurs, and teaching him about them has reminded me of how much I loved them, too. This book is a reminder to adults about why we all liked dinosaurs so much as kids — because they are amazing! (They really, really are!)

7. Clear up a misconception (about your job, where you are from, some other topic you know a lot about.)

Alabama is a beautiful state. It's worth fighting for.

8. Where can the rest of the Boredwalk community find you?

KianiGardner.com
Facebook: @VoteKiani
Twitter: @kianigardner
Instagram:@kianigardner