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Attending my first academic conference was an incredibly rewarding experience, and I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to participate. Engaging with university students from around the world who are deeply interested in their specific research topics, I was able to broaden my perspective by exploring various fields and developing an interdisciplinary mindset. Listening to experts share their valuable experiences while immersed in the vibrant city of New York was truly inspiring.

What resonated with me most during the panel discussions was the participants' genuine passion and curiosity. Each individual contributed their unique viewpoints, shaped by their research and experiences. It was fascinating to observe how ideas from diverse domains intersected, sparking innovative ways of thinking. This reinforced the importance of cultivating diverse perspectives in research and development. No single person or field holds all the answers, but collectively, we can tackle complex challenges in groundbreaking ways.

The support and platform provided by the conference, along with the interactions with scholars, truly enriched my experience. Witnessing the enthusiasm, confidence, and open-mindedness of scholars in their research fields highlighted their deep commitment to their work — driven not only by a thirst for knowledge but also by a genuine desire to make the world a better place. In that moment, I felt a resolute strength inside me — the belief that I, too, can be the change I wish to see. Being part of such a vibrant community, I feel incredibly fortunate and look forward to applying what I have learned to my own work.

One of the most impressive aspects of the conference was its commitment to continuous improvement through participant feedback. The organizers demonstrated humility and a genuine willingness to listen from diverse perspectives, striving for refinement. It struck me that while it is easy to criticize others’ shortcomings and take the moral high ground, the true challenge lies in balancing empathy and judgment. Understanding this balance is a profound lesson in life.

Additionally, during a campus tour and exchange with students from Columbia University on the first night, I gained deeper insights into American campus life and academic culture.

Reflecting on my time at the conference, I am filled with a sense of accomplishment and gratitude. The knowledge acquired, connections forged, and experiences shared have left a lasting impact on me as an aspiring researcher and scholar. I extend my deepest gratitude to the Laidlaw Foundation and The University of Hong Kong Laidlaw Scholars Programme for making this remarkable journey possible. Inspired and motivated by the guidance and support from my mentors and fellow scholars, I am eager to continue my academic pursuits. I thoroughly enjoyed this conference and look forward to attending another at a different institution in the future.