Participating in the recent Laidlaw conference in New York was an eye-opening experience that gave me the chance to connect with a community of future leaders passionate about research and innovation. Meeting people from different backgrounds and hearing about their work was incredibly inspiring and made me excited about the year to come as a scholar.

One of the highlights was exchanging academic ideas during the panel discussions and poster symposium. I met students working on projects in computational genomics and neuroscience, and their work gave me new ideas for my own research on the role of cancer innervation. Their fresh perspectives and creative use of technology helped me see how I could explore my project from new angles. These conversations were not only interesting but also very helpful for my future work.

The gala dinner was another highlight of the conference. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect with other participants in a relaxed and informal setting. Sharing stories and experiences over dinner helped build stronger connections and a deeper appreciation for the diverse paths we’ve taken.

The ethical leadership workshop that followed was equally memorable. It included interactive activities like a music therapy session where scholars shared personal playlists and explored how music impacts their well-being and decision-making. This unique activity made the workshop even more engaging and left me with practical tools for self-awareness and leadership.

I am deeply grateful to the foundation for organizing such a meaningful event and providing me with this incredible opportunity to grow as both a researcher and a leader. The experience has inspired me to approach the year ahead with renewed energy, confidence, and a deeper commitment to making a positive impact.