My Experience at the 2024 Society for Toxicology National Conference

Attending the Society of Toxicology (SOT) conference was both an exhilarating and nerve-wracking experience. Representing my lab solo, I felt the weight of showcasing months of diligent work and was keen on making a positive impression. Thankfully, my presentation exceeded expectations. Professors and industry representatives engaged deeply with my research, especially intrigued by my data collection methods. One surprising outcome was the interest from a company representative exploring the application of my study in the development of lip balm and lipstick.

A highlight of the conference was the “Undergrad Gab with a Grad” event, a lunch session where undergraduates interacted with graduate students. This event provided invaluable insights into grad school applications and finding research labs aligned with our interests. My favorite recurring advice from the grad students was to “advocate for yourself and recognize your self-worth”. This encouragement was timely, as it boosted my confidence to accept admission to Brown University for a Master's in public health starting this fall.

The conference also offered an opportunity to connect with University of Arizona alumni and explore the diverse research initiatives they are involved in. I supported fellow researchers during their poster sessions which broadened my understanding of the innovative work being conducted at the UA.  A poster that stood out to me was on the pervasive issue of microplastics, revealing that they have been discovered embedded in ancient remains up to 7 meters deep.

Overall, the SOT conference was not only a platform for professional growth but also a period of significant personal development. I am profoundly grateful for the experience and the chance to share my journey with others.