Attending a conference, and especially presenting work at a conference, is a rite of passage in anyone’s academic career.
Here, we provide an overview of academic conferences. This includes the benefits of attending as well as some potential challenges to address. It’s a chance to network, promote your work, get feedback, and practice important skills.
The benefits of academic conference attendance
Attending academic conferences is an exciting opportunity to meet with others in your field. They can be small, local endeavours, or large, international initiatives—and everything in between.
There are plenty of benefits to attending a conference. These include opportunities to:
- Promote your work;
- Get some practice;
- Network and make connections;
- Receive feedback from your peers;
- Share ideas with others.
Attendance at academic conferences is vital, whatever stage you’re at in your career. Whether you are looking to attend or to present your work, you gain exposure to and engagement with academic communities.
Students and early-career researchers
Those attending and/or presenting at a conference for the first time will likely have different conference experiences than those who have been doing it for a long time. But everyone was new to academia at some point, so embrace these formative learning moments.
Other than in a classroom or with close colleagues, this may be the first opportunity for some to present their work. Junior scholars and students can start small, attending a local conference or a smaller seminar series. It’s a good chance to get some practice.
Senior scholars
Many senior or more experienced scholars have plenty of experience at academic conferences. As a result, they likely have different goals than others who attend because of their seniority and expertise.
Just as we hope that the younger generation can bring a fresh perspective, experienced scholars offer valuable historical knowledge. This often comes with additional responsibility and obligations. This may include chairing a panel, being an invited speaker, and giving a keynote talk.
Offering mentorship to the younger generation builds on the work that came before. Encouraging your own graduate students and less experienced colleagues to participate in academic conferences can go a long way. Inviting them to relevant talks or attending theirs can be an important show of support.
Submitting your work to an academic conference
Like other aspects of academia, applying to present your work at an academic conference involves strategy, preparation, and organization.
Research relevant conferences and find a suitable topic, or tailor your work to those provided. Select those conferences that fit well with your work and that you can fulfill their guidelines. Strategizing in the application process will increase your chances of being accepted.
While there are similarities, each conference has its own set of norms and expectations. Do your research and don’t assume that a submission for one conference can be used for another. Guidelines are strict. Applications can be confusing. And ot all work considered for the conference will end up on the official agenda.
If a submission isn’t accepted, don’t lose hope. Some kind of rejection happens to everyone. Take some time to review any feedback received and reflect on how you can improve for next time. You could also ask a trusted colleague to review your work.
And you’re still encouraged to register as a conference participant. Getting some more experience in the field will help with future submissions.
Also, be sure you consider potential challenges. This might includes high conference fees, as well as expenses for travel, accommodations, food, etc. Check with the conference organizers or related member associations. They may offer an early-bird discount or special pricing for students and low-income and marginalized groups.
Academic networking and making connections
Networking at academic conferences is key, particularly for those taking place in person. Connections made can spark friendships or professional collaborations that go beyond the event itself.
Virtual conferences have become much more common, particularly since the COVID-19 lockdowns. These offer certain benefits. For example, online conferences don’t require any travel, food, or accommodations. In addition, scholars who may ordinarily not be able to attend for a variety of reasons are able to participate.
Still, in-person conferences offer more face-to-face time and a different experience than online. It’s important to note that some have a hybrid option to make attendance more accessible.
Networking is a key driver of potential research collaborations and partnerships. Making connections and sharing ideas happen during conference proceedings, as well as during any organized social events or at mealtimes.
This is why some choose to stay at the conference hotel. Accommodations are often offered to attendees at a group rate, and it’s convenient for attending panels. When needed, you can return to your room in between sessions without leaving the conference site.
Those who may be more extroverted can thrive in this area. However, don’t be discouraged if it takes you some time to become more comfortable in this kind of setting.
Preparing to attend an academic conference
Once you have confirmed your attendance, you can start preparing to make the most of your conference experience.
If you’re presenting, be sure to prepare your work before you arrive. Be careful not to leave it all to the last minute. Trying to wing it can work if you’re lucky, but it’s not the best plan of action for presenting strong work.
Once it’s available, download the conference agenda. Here, you can see who you are presenting alongside and get a sense of what events you might like to attend.
If you’re particularly keen, you can do a bit of research beforehand. This might involve reading a paper beforehand or mentally preparing yourself to approach someone you admire.
Taking note of potential opportunities, even just to say hello and introduce yourself, is a good way to dip your feet in. If you do happen to meet someone you connect with, follow up after the conference to solidify the relationship.
No matter your level of experience, challenge yourself to attend an academic conference. All experience is good and will set you up for future success.