YSI @ NARSC 2023

Networking is a pivotal source of professional benefits during conferences, especially at prestigious events like the NARSC Meetings. However, it can be a daunting challenge for young scholars, particularly when they are attending a large-scale conference for the first time, featuring keynote speakers of exceptional renown. While established scholars typically have robust professional networks, emerging researchers may grapple with forging their connections. Networking meetings serve as essential platforms for cultivating research collaborations, facilitating the exchange of knowledge, and assisting young scholars in building their own professional networks.

This is particularly vital for those in the early stages of their academic careers or those lacking extensive experience in interacting with distinguished figures in the field. It's not uncommon for these individuals to feel overlooked or adrift in the vast sea of academia. As their names might not be widely recognized within their respective fields, and with many lacking tenured positions, networking becomes even more critical, especially in the context of securing academic positions. These networking opportunities offer valuable prospects for individuals to connect with peers within their disciplines and across diverse fields, thereby enhancing interdisciplinary connections and broadening their academic horizons.

In this context, the YSI Networking Meetings aim to create conducive environments for interactions among young scholars and facilitate their engagement with senior speakers. These meetings provide opportunities for activities such as delivering elevator speeches about their own thesis and/or dissertation research, discussing challenges related to publishing in the field of regional sciences, exploring recent and cutting-edge research methods, and more.

Following the conference sessions, these networking meetings will offer a relaxed setting for young scholars to unwind and engage in discussions related to careers, entrepreneurship, and various professional opportunities. Additionally, a networking lunch with senior conference speakers will be organized to enable exchanges and discussions concerning the challenges and opportunities faced by young researchers in the field.

Interested young scholars registered for NARSC can apply to attend the event until November 8th, 2023, using the form provided above.