Presenting a Paper or Poster at a Conference (6 points)

 

Presenting my summer research at the University of Pennsylvania Summer Research Symposium was a rewarding experience that marked the culmination of months of dedication in the lab. Sharing my project with faculty, graduate students, and peers allowed me to receive valuable feedback that strengthened my scientific communication and deepened my understanding of my project’s broader impact, as well as potential future directions. Beyond presenting, I had the opportunity to network with members of the Penn community. Additionally, my participation in this symposium reminded me of the critical importance of fostering diversity in STEM fields. At a time when inclusion and equity are increasingly challenged and, in some cases, actively undermined, creating space for underrepresented voices is essential. Diversity in STEM enriches innovation, drives more comprehensive problem-solving, and ensures that the benefits of scientific and technological progress reach all communities. 

- Jordyn Smalls