DEN Conference Reflection

As a member of DEN, I had the privilege of participating in a discussion panel centred on Global Capitalism, Power, and Inequality. It was an honour to present a topic that required a significant amount of research and development. I was delighted to have the opportunity to listen to my colleagues’ insightful and compelling presentations, each of which focused on different topics. The day conference was an absolute joy, and I appreciated the effort and enthusiasm my fellow colleagues invested in their presentations.

Although speaking in public may seem daunting, it is a valuable and rewarding exercise for both present and future professionals. I encourage everyone who has the opportunity to engage in it. DEN offers a platform to develop a wide range of skills throughout the year, including critical reading, and academic writing, and culminates in an annual conference where we can showcase our hard work. Presenting at the conference was an unforgettable experience that helped me enhance my public speaking skills, learn how to create effective presentations, and push myself to give my best.

Moreover, the DEN Conference offers a unique opportunity to connect with new individuals and expand your network. This year, we were fortunate to have students from Uzbekistan and Thailand participate and showcase their exceptional projects on various panels. Interacting with people from diverse backgrounds is incredibly valuable as it broadens your perspective and enhances your understanding of different cultures and ways of viewing the world.

During our breaks, we took advantage of the opportunity to have insightful and meaningful conversations with the Uzbek and Thai students. We learned about their university experiences, and what inspired them to pursue their field of study, and even shared some lighthearted moments filled with laughter and happiness. Undoubtedly, these interactions have helped me establish lasting connections and valuable contacts.

The DEN Conference was a truly unforgettable experience that I would love to attend again next year. Not only did it offer valuable insights and networking opportunities on an academic and professional level, but it also provided a chance to connect with amazing individuals who had a wealth of ideas and knowledge to share. Spending an entire day immersed in such a dynamic and diverse environment was truly enriching, and the opportunity to work on a project related to a topic of my choice was a definite highlight.

Alen Melero Yerinkova, University of Westminster