The  2024 North American Laidlaw Scholar Annual Student Conference was held in New York, it was my first time to the US and who would have thought my first visit would be for an academic conference (it really sounded so cool)! It was also the end of the 2024 US Presidential Election, and a year ago, I would never have imagined myself walking out of the JFK airport alone, confused and excited by the unique experience that lay ahead.

The conference spanned three days: Evening activities and kickoff events on the first day; presentations and gala events on the second day; and leadership training sessions on the last day. And as a whole, the 2024 North American Laidlaw Scholar Annual Student Conference has provided me with the opportunity to engage with a diverse group of scholars, exchange ideas on research topics, and establish new academic connections that have been invaluable to my growth as a researcher.

Throughout the conference, I found myself immersed in thought-provoking discussions, each conversation sparking new insights and perspectives on my own research. The collaborative atmosphere fostered at the event not only allowed me to share my ideas but also provided a platform to learn from the innovative work of my peers. One of the highlights of the conference was the chance to network with fellow scholars during the poster presentation session, where I furthered my understanding of brain inflammation and applied psychology. These interactions have not only expanded my professional circle but have also inspired me to explore new avenues in my own neuropsychology research. The connections I have made at the conference are sure to be lasting and impactful, opening doors to potential collaborations and future opportunities.

Overall, the 2024 North American Laidlaw Scholar Annual Student Conference was a rewarding experience that has left me motivated and excited about the possibilities that lie ahead in my academic pursuits. I am grateful for the chance to have participated in such a stimulating event and look forward to continuing to build upon the connections and ideas that were sparked during this enriching conference.