This article describes the benefits of hiring an introductory science specialist for introductory-level students. An introductory science specialist can help prepare students for upper-division courses. These specialists are content generalists and methodological specialists--someone who is adept at teaching a wide range of content concepts and demonstrates expertise in pedagogical skills and techniques. An introductory science specialist is cognizant of students' myriad learning styles, is aware of and recognizes common misconceptions and is able to rectify them, and is able to develop Standards-based course curriculum. In the process of preparing students for upper-division science courses and teaching students to think like scientists, introductory science specialists should also inspire students to stay with their chosen major. Introductory specialists are able to communicate connections among science disciplines, use presentation techniques and technology to address various student learning styles and interests, and require students to learn science as it is practiced.