Embracing Growth: My Journey with Seventh Annual DEN International Student Conference

This year is my first experience with the DEN conference, and I am filled with gratitude and growth. From the initial submission of my abstract to the thrilling experience of presenting my paper, each step of the process has been enriching and transforming. My journey to the DEN conference started in February when Westminster International University in Tashkent held the Second Student Research Conference, where I presented my dissertation for the first time.  At that time, the research paper was not fully ready, but there was only passion to take part in and get the opportunity for the London trip and DEN conference. And as it says: “Dreams come true”; my friends and I won that conference at our university.

After submitting my abstract, I deeply focused on the development of my presentation, strengthening my research and improving my presentation skills. It was challenging to fit around 20,000 words of dissertation and my findings into a ten-minute presentation. However, my supervisor and tutors’ encouragement and support gave me the strength to take risks. The day of my presentation was both nerve-wracking and exhilarating. Standing in front of a various audience of researchers and students, I felt a sense of responsibility to present my study with clarity and conviction. The interactive dialogue that ensued, questioned my assumptions and broadened my horizons, emphasizing the importance of academic discourse in generating positive change. The DEN conference allowed me and other students to present on various topics. My presentation focused on high-skilled labor migration and its effect on economic growth and human development. Moreover, it was a great chance to listen to other research papers and to get familiarized more with the topics that you might not know before. This DEN conference was an ocean of new ideas, analysis, and information, and to look at the problems from new perspectives.

I am so fortunate to take part in the seventh annual DEN conference and to meet students with diverse backgrounds from the United Kingdom, the United States, Vietnam, Thailand, and many more. Beyond the academic insights gained, I forged meaningful connections with like-minded individuals who share my passion for advancing knowledge and fostering innovation. The evening dinner and performances are also worth mentioning (they were fabulous!), and I was very impressed to see so much effort everyone put into organizing this conference. The DEN conference not only provided a platform for intellectual exchange but also nurtured a sense of belonging within a global community of scholars. As I look towards the future, I am grateful for the opportunity to have been part of such a vibrant and dynamic network. The lessons learned and the memories created will continue to inspire me on my academic journey, and I am excited to contribute to the collective pursuit of knowledge and excellence. Last but not least, I want to mention my gratitude to the director of DEN, Dr. Farhang Morady. His friendly attitude to students, guidance, and leadership made this conference unforgettable to all of us.

Durdonabonu Davronova