Making Connections

Abstract

ttending a professional conference is an effective way to explore and advance knowledge, skills, and careers. For graduate students, attending a conference is an effective way to explore academic fields and new professions (Chapman et al., 2009). However, attending a professional conference requires precious resourcestime and money-so the decision to attend, or not, is often difficult. Are you new to the adult education field and considering your first conference? Or, are you a seasoned adult education professional considering your next conference? Perhaps you are a professor or practitioner encouraging a student or mentee to attend a professional conference. If you have decided to attend a conference, what is your plan for maximizing the experience?The purpose of this reflection is to share my experience and a framework for graduate students, and professionals, to maximize attending professional conferences. If I had not attended a professional conference as a master's student, I would not be a doctoral student today; if I had not attended a second professional conference while applying for doctoral programs, I would not be studying and researching my way to the professoriate. Based on my conference experience, reflection, and research, an

Self-development Tools Utilized by Plastic Surgeons: A Survey of ASPS Members

“…We have identified several self-development tools and practices that have been most frequently referenced in the current medical and nonmedical literature. These include concepts of goal setting, [10][11][12][13][14] positive visualization, [15][16][17][18] scheduled practice, 19,20 critically analyzing mistakes, 21,22 professional development conferences, [23][24][25][26] involvement in sports, [27][28][29] motivational videos, [30][31][32][33] podcasts & audiobooks, 34,35 daily morning routines, [36][37][38] self-development books, 35,39 and advice from mentors. 21,40 Goal setting has been linked to improved self-efficacy and confidence as well as an increased likelihood of attaining desired outcomes.…”

Outlining the Hidden Curriculum: Perspectives on Successfully Navigating Scientific Conferences

“…Scientific conferences and meetings are exciting places to share research ideas and results, develop critical professional networks, and connect with scientific communities. 6 These forums can also be intimidating, confusing, and overwhelming, especially for early career researchers as they develop networking skills, self-confidence, and the courage to exchange knowledge and ideas. 7 Participants will most likely engage with a diverse audience of attendees, sometimes in a non-native language (typically English).…”

Scientific Conferences for Medical Students: Why do We Need more Spaces for Students to Enhance Research?

“…Attending these events, according to research, is a learning process in which participants increase their knowledge, study skills, networking abilities, and professional connections. [6][7][8] Particularly doctoral students utilize seminars to acquire new information. 9 The process of socialization during conference attendance consists of four stages: introduction to new rules and roles, increased focus on tasks and comprehension of career objectives, growing confidence, and finally internalization of their roles as researchers, leading to the formation of a professional identity.…”