Shkiyah Little- Presenting a paper or poster at a conference: 6 points

 Receiving the news that my abstract was accepted for poster presentation at the HBCU Climate Change Conference was both affirming and motivating. This opportunity represents more than just the chance to share my research-- it signifies that the questions I am asking and the work I am doing have relevance within broader scientific conversations about climate, health, and community resilience.

Having my work selected for presentation reinforces my growth as a developing scientist and reminds me that research can serve as a meaningful tool for advocacy. Climate change is not an abstract or distant issue; it disproportionately impacts underserved communities through increased exposure to environmental stressors, limited access to resources, and heightened vulnerability to chronic disease. Being able to present research in a space that centers historically Black colleges and universities highlights the importance of elevating perspectives that are often underrepresented in environmental and public health discourse.

This acceptance also challenges me to think more critically about how I communicate science. A poster presentation requires translating complex data into an accessible format that invites dialogue, curiosity, and collaboration.