Attend and present at academic conferences

As a graduate student, it is important to attend academic conferences because conferences:

• Give you the opportunity to present your research and therefore strengthen your presentation abilities.
• Are great learning experiences, because they showcase cutting-edge research in your field of study.
• Give you the chance to meet and network with many interesting people, including leaders in your field of study.
• Are great sources for job leads.
• Encourage you in your research work.

Ask your advisor about which upcoming conferences you may attend. Aim to present your work at the very best national and international conferences. Presentations at prestigious conferences will advance your career. Furthermore, by attending those conferences, you will hear about current research being conducted by the top people in your field, and you may have the opportunity to meet them.

Don't let the cost of conference attendance discourage you from attending! Ask your advisor for details on any travel or conference assistance your department may be able to provide you. Also, the Faculty of Graduate Studies and the Graduate Students' Association offer conference awards to eligible graduate students. Consult each of the FGS travel award information and the GSA conference grantapplication forms to determine your eligibility, and to apply for funding.

Once you have decided on which conference to attend, work with your advisor to write a conference submission. Determine whether you are more interested in presenting a conference paper, a poster session, or an interactive discussion symposium.

During the conference, take the opportunity to introduce yourself to others to receive constructive feedback on your research, to widen your professional networks, and to make new friends. Social events are a great way for getting to know people in a relaxing and fun atmosphere, so take advantage of them!