In our complicated lives as college students, it is difficult to think of going somewhere during the semester (except during the breaks). At least this is what I used to think, until I attended a conference in Florida during one weekend in September. Attending the conference reformed my thinking in multiple ways.

It is important to maintain efficiency while working during the semester, but it is difficult to do so if one gets caught up in a monotonous routine. A short trip is a great way to break this cycle. Many fields have conferences that undergraduate and graduate students are able to attend, and grants to attend these can be obtained from the Office of Undergraduate Research, at least for students presenting their research, as well as other university sources.

For instance, the conference I attended was in Orlando, Florida. In addition to learning a great deal, in the evening I got an opportunity to go to Universal Studios, which was one of the most awesome experiences of my life.

I thoroughly enjoyed the part of the studios dedicated to the Harry Potter movies, but the effect of this enjoyment was more important than the process of enjoyment itself. I was revitalized and inspired to work harder after my trip. It also helped me realize why I had been so bored and inefficient during the semester.

Attending this type of conference has an academic benefit too. I had an opportunity to learn many new things about the social effect of research and other interesting topics during the conference. Learning something different from the regular academic stuff is a positive change of scenery for a weary mind.

For example, before attending, I was only aware of research and industrial applications of the knowledge I had gained. Through this conference, I realized I can also use my skills to reach out to people in underserved communities, especially children who might be interested in STEM fields, to help them fulfill their potential.

Another big advantage of attending conferences, or other short trips, is that they help an individual with networking and meeting professionals who are active and experienced in the field of their choice. This allows students like me to know what exactly is needed to enter and excel in that field.

For example, the hotel in which I was staying for the duration of the conference was also hosting a conference for Microsoft, which is developing projects aligned with my professional interests. I briefly met some people from Microsoft, and my conversations with them helped me realize what I lacked professionally and the tools I need to master for landing a job at Microsoft. Moreover, I gained several potentially useful LinkedIn contacts in just a matter of minutes.

I also met an amazing professor from NC State who is exploring an area which aligns with my own research interests. I discussed the possibility of collaborating with her and, although it’s still in nascent stages, I feel hopeful that I can work on some projects with her next semester.

Conferences are a productive way to break out of a daily routine while also developing professionally. And if you have a research paper to present your own findings, that’s even better. Such trips are not a waste of time either, since you can develop more contacts and learn about the latest developments in your field which will help you build your profile.