Attending a Science Conference: What to Expect and How to Make the Most of It

Science Conference

Attending a Science Conference: What to Expect and How to Make the Most of It

The benefits of attending a science conference include meeting industry leaders and uncovering recent scientific advancements. When attending a conference, making the most of your experience is important. Discover what to expect and how to get the most advantages below.

What to Expect at Science Conferences

Science conferences let you learn about recent advancements, discuss solutions to new problems, network with people and organizations, and test new technologies or products. Each conference is unique, but common activities include: 

  • Keynote speaker presentations
  • Technology or product displays
  • Workshop sessions
  • Poster sessions
  • Discussion of new problems and solutions
  • Reviews of research papers or findings

 

How to Make the Most of the Conference

Attending a science conference is enjoyable and presents many exciting opportunities. To fully benefit, follow these tips:

1. Plan Ahead

Consider events, activities and personal goals, as these affect your next steps. For example, if you want to advance to a new position, you might leverage more networking opportunities. 

Also, consider clothing, transportation and accommodations. You should wear professional attire to a science conference, whether presenting or attending. If the event requires a lengthy commute, book at a hotel where colleagues or other attendees are staying. 

2. Choose Meaningful Sessions

Discover who's speaking and what events will be available. Your objectives define which events will be most beneficial. Prioritize the sessions that help you achieve your goals, especially if multiple events coincide. 

3. Find Networking Opportunities

A significant advantage of attending a science conference is networking. Before the event, prepare an "elevator pitch" to introduce yourself and summarize your background. Speak to new people before and after sessions to make connections and foster new ideas. 

4. Take Notes

Taking notes is excellent for remembering which ideas stood out to you and who you want to contact afterward. Record which people you talk to, new concepts to investigate and attention-grabbing sessions. You can request a presentation recording at some conferences if you want additional details. 

5. Follow up With Other Attendees

Reach out to other attendees afterward. Maintaining relationships can open the door for future professional and personal opportunities. You can also contact presenters and discuss novel ideas or technologies further. 

6. Take Advantage of Continuing Education Credits

Many conferences offer Continuing Education Credits, which you can use to fulfill requirements necessary for maintaining your license or certification. Take all appropriate actions to earn these credits after attending a conference, including submitting an event evaluation, obtaining a badge of attendance or completing another action to prove attendance or retention. 

Find Scientific Equipment From Boekel Scientific

Boekel Scientific provides market-leading laboratory supplies and equipment with long service lives and quality manufacturing. When you want to streamline processes and bring unique findings to your next scientific conference, it's important to have reliable equipment. We've been innovators since 1868, so we understand the importance of reliable equipment for efficient laboratory processes. Browse our products or contact us for a custom solution for your laboratory.

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