​🌀 We’re often drawn to people who seem genuine, real, and authentic—comfortable in their own skin, unafraid to show up as themselves. But while “just be yourself” sounds simple, it’s not always obvious when—or even how—to be ourselves.

​Join us for an evening at the Faight Collective with UC Berkeley professor Erica Bailey, who will share new research on the social side of authenticity. We often think being authentic is just about knowing who we are or having the confidence to express it—but in reality, our ability to “be ourselves” depends a lot on how others treat us.

​We’ll explore the tension between internal identity and external judgment—how social status and belonging shape our sense of self, and why authenticity often depends less on individual courage and more on the social conditions that allow it to emerge. 🤲🪞

​❓FAQs❓

​​​What should I expect?

​​​7:00-7:40 --> arrival & chats

​​​7:40-8:20 --> lecture

​​​8:20-9:00 --> q&a and more chatting

​​​Who's invited?

​​​Anyone with an interest in learning new things, meeting new people, and doing fun things on weeknights! Lots of people came solo to our last event, so don't be afraid to do the same—you’ll meet some awesome people!

​​​What about parking?

​​​There's no parking on-site, so we recommend street parking or using public transportation.

​Do I have to be 21+?

​No :) This venue is open to all ages. If you'd like to purchase alcohol, you must be 21+ and present a valid ID.

​​​What about refunds?

​You can refund your ticket up to 24 hours before the event starts. Since this is a limited-space event, we encourage you to update your RSVP if you can’t make it—this helps us keep spots open for others. NOTE - you do NOT need to email us for a refund, we will issue one within 48 hours upon changing your RSVP to "Not Going" :)

​​​I can't make it to this event. How do I stay updated for future events?

​​Join our email list! https://forms.gle/GQdDjd2UTV48F5Z17

​​​Follow our Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/bigbrainsf/

​​​How do I become a speaker?

​​​Email bigbrainsanfrancisco@gmail.com with your name, a brief description of who you are, and what you're passionate about / researching.

​​What about the ticket structure? 💸

​​Every ticket sold goes directly back into the business. However, we want to make our events accessible to everyone. If cost is a barrier, please reach out for financial assistance by emailing bigbrainsanfrancisco@gmail.com.​

​​Thanks for supporting our growing mission!

​​​*For any other questions or special accommodations, please email bigbrainsanfrancisco@gmail.com.