Last November, many aspiring entomologists attended Entomology 2023, the annual meeting of the Entomological Society of America (ESA), held in National Harbor, Maryland, from November 5th to 8th to explore the world. I experienced the insect science community up close for the first time.
More than 20 of these students and young professionals will support Public Health Entomology for All (PHEFA), a joint project between ESA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to foster a new generation of public health professionals. I received and participated. Contribute to the development of entomologists through fellowships, internships, and travel grants for students, recent graduates, and faculty at minority-serving institutions. In 2023, the PHEFA travel grant will cover registration, transportation, hotel, and meals for three faculty and three students. Applications for the 2024 PHEFA Travel Grant for Entomology are currently being accepted and the deadline is April 1st.
In the Q&A below, three aspiring entomologists share their experiences at Entomology 2023, what they found most interesting, and their advice for students heading to future ESA annual meetings.
Jovensky Seme
Undergraduate, Biology
St. Augustine University
Raleigh, North Carolina
entomology today: How did you feel after 4 days of insect science and networking at Entomology 2023?
Seme: Entomology 2023 made me very confident that a career in entomology is something I want to pursue. I am forever grateful for the opportunity to meet and network with passionate people to advance my career.
Which symposium, presentation, or workshop did you enjoy the most?
The PHEFA luncheon and presentation was the most enjoyable event for me. This event brought us all together to share our best moments and achievements in the field of entomology. It was a powerful moment for all of us to appreciate and reflect on where we came from, where we are now, and where we will soon be.
What was the most interesting conversation you had at the conference?
The most interesting conversation I had at the conference was with Stacey East, Director of Equity and Grants at ESA. She understood where I was in my career and inspired me to continue striving in this field. I now feel an even stronger sense of belonging to the field of entomology.
How will attending the ESA Annual Meeting impact your education and career pursuits?
The impact that the ESA Annual Meeting had on me helped me decide to pursue a Ph.D. program and potential fellowship opportunities with CDC and PHEFA.
What advice would you give to students who may be attending the 2024 ESA meeting for the first time?
Be open-minded and attend as many symposiums, presentations, and workshops as possible. This experience will definitely hone your intelligence and be beneficial for your career.
Aaliyah Royston
Graduate student, urban forestry
Southern University and A&M College
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
entomology today: How did you feel after 4 days of insect science and networking at Entomology 2023?
Royston: I felt more inspired, motivated, and knowledgeable than before I attended the conference.
Which symposium, presentation, or workshop did you enjoy the most?
My favorite meetings were speaking at the PHEFA luncheon and symposium. Because it was an open floor to talk about public health in entomology, discuss workforce diversity and equity, and how to get a government job.
What was the most interesting conversation you had at the conference?
The most interesting conversation I had was at the PHEFA luncheon. Because I was able to network with group organizers and colleagues in the organization. We can talk about the different programs we offer post-graduation for graduate and undergraduate students in their field of specialization. This conversation was so powerful that I will never forget how it changed my perspective on entomology.
How will attending the ESA Annual Meeting impact your education and career pursuits?
The ESA meeting gave me a sense of elation and gave me deeper insight into this field of research. By participating in various conferences and symposiums, I was able to gain a deeper understanding of what I want for my future.
What advice would you give to students who may be attending the 2024 ESA meeting for the first time?
Be open-minded and ready to enter a world full of opportunities. Be prepared to network with other attendees and partners during the conference.
Kristen Adkins
Master's degree, Agriculture
Florida A&M University
CDC Dengue Branch PHEFA Fellow
san juan, puerto rico
entomology today: How did you feel after 4 days of insect science and networking at Entomology 2023?
Adkins: Entomology 2023 was a great experience. After the conference, I was able to connect with several entomologists from all over the country, which further strengthened my sense of belonging to the field of entomology. I was also able to meet entomologists and read many posters related to the species I am currently studying, which further deepened my purpose for research.
Which symposium, presentation, or workshop did you enjoy the most?
The article I found most interesting was “Climate Change, Health Equity, and Vector-Borne Disease: A U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Perspective.'' This session was highly relevant to my current research as a PHEFA Fellow. Aedes aegypti. It showed me how to incorporate my master's thesis research into the field of public health. This session continued my excitement for public health entomology and higher education in this field.
What was the most interesting conversation you had at the conference?
The most interesting conversation I had during the conference took place at the PHEFA luncheon. I was able to talk to various students about their time as PHEFA fellows. I could relate to these students more than anyone else at the conference. Because we are all looking to our future and making our own paths in the field of entomology. They not only asked questions about my research in the program, but also about who I am as a person and how those traits and different experiences have led me to where I am today. .
How will attending the ESA Annual Meeting impact your education and career pursuits?
When I attended the ESA Annual Meeting for the first time last year, I already had a great career opportunity. I was able to meet experts from ESA and CDC who introduced me to the PHEFA program. This year, I was able to speak throughout the exhibit hall about various universities and my educational interests. They were able to give me contact information for professors and explain their research in different labs at different universities.
What advice would you give to students who may be attending the 2024 ESA meeting for the first time?
Please take the time to review the meeting schedule before attending the meeting. Plan so you don't miss any sessions that interest you. Also, be sociable and be prepared to interact with as many people as possible. Building connections can be important to your success. The ESA Annual Meeting is a place to meet new people, attend sessions, and even advance your career. Lastly, I tell first-time students to take their time and enjoy the city. Sightseeing with other students and trying new restaurants can be a fun way to unwind after a long day at a conference.
