“The funding I received from The Wetland Foundation supported my attendance of the Joint Aquatic Sciences Meeting (JASM) from May 16-20, 2022, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This was the first large scientific conference I was able to attend in person. At JASM, I presented a poster with data from one of my Master’s thesis research chapters entitled “Effects of layered disturbance legacies on marsh transgression along the northern Gulf of Mexico”. Presenting my research allowed me to interact with numerous conference attendees and improve my science communication skills. I enjoyed meeting and discussing my work with scientists working across a variety of disciplines.
The variety of talks I listened to while at the conference reinforced my interest in aquatic and wetland science and made me excited to continue studying these systems in the future. It was great to connect with fellow members of the Society for Wetland Scientists in person at their awards luncheon. Finally, I attended a student/early career networking event, and a workshop on how to successfully interview across various job sectors, both of which provided me with valuable guidance and networking opportunities as I take the next steps in my career. I am sincerely grateful for the support from the Wetland Foundation, which allowed me to partake in this wonderful opportunity.”