Presenting at Monash University
Where: Melbourne, Australia
When: 20th November 2013 – 1st December 2013
What: The Australian Sociology Association annual conference
Conference Venue: Monash University
Being able to present my PhD research in the Southern Hemisphere as part of my professional development was an extra-ordinary opportunity to undertake. Since returning from Australia I feel extremely motivated and inspired to further progress with my research. The benefits of the trip will be reported within three sections below, namely knowledge, research profile and lastly personal development.
Knowledge
The three day conference which took place between 26th-28th November 2013 was very intense and expansive; each presentation session involved up to 25 parallel sessions which meant the choice of topic was vast. This ensured that each day of the conference information which was directly related to my own research could be sourced. Discussions that took place around the themes of gender roles, structure vs agency and family mobility were exceptionally valuable. Also, the key-note speakers were enlightening and engaging. Professor Raewyn Connell spoke on the last day which was inspiring and enlightening; she has published several core texts in relation to gender and has been of a great impact on my PhD. The knowledge acquired via this experience could not have been learnt through books or articles but only through this lived experience. I now plan to use the conference notes made and connect them with my current research to further improve my work to date.
Research Profile
As an early-career academic it is increasingly important to be visible and make an impact in a chosen field. Attending this conference has certainly enabled me to build upon my existing profile; I delivered my research presentation on 26th November which was very well received by the audience. Being part of the conference programme helped to develop networks and instigate conversations regarding research with other academics from across the globe. Meeting with a former colleague, Dr Ruth Jeanes based at Monash University, will potentially lead to research publications in the future through joint ventures.
Personal Development
Having the opportunity to travel and experience a different culture has been very awe-inspiring. Sharing knowledge with fellow colleagues and being able to compare UK systems with Australian approaches has been insightful. Being fully immersed in academia has invigorated my own creativity, which I hope to utilise within my research. Also, achieving a personal accolade of presenting to an international audience is very satisfying and will be of benefit to my own personal career progression.