Melissa Dunham '17 Attends the American Geophysical Union’s 2017 Fall Meeting

Attending the American Geophysical Union’s (AGU) 2017 Fall Meeting as an undergraduate was a priceless, unique, and inspiring experience that I will take with me through my journey as a geoscientist. There were ample poster sessions, enlightning talks, technical presentations, and keynote lectures, including one entitled “How Geoscientists Can Change the World”.

With the over 20,000 scientists that attended AGU’s 2017 Fall Meeting, there were no limitations to learning and networking. Not only was I able to present my ongoing senior thesis research to geoscientists from all reaches of the globe, but I was also exposed to how the global scientific community interacts, communicates, shares, and expands knowledge first hand.

In addition, I was also able to network further with fellow undergraduate and graduate students as well as with professionals from organizations such as NASA, USGS, NOAA, and the US Naval Academy in an exhibition hall setting. As a result of attending AGU’s 2017 Fall Meeting, I truly feel a part of the greater scientific community and understand how my research can directly contribute to future scientific discoveries.

As a result of this conference, I am inspired to look for those opportunities where I can play a leadership role to help increase the presence and impact of women in science and to bridge the gap between science and politics. 

-Submitted by Melissa Dunham '17, Rockefeller Center Mini Grant Recipient 

The Rockefeller Center's Mini-Grants program funds registration fees for students attending conferences, as well as the costs of bringing guest speakers to Dartmouth. The views and opinions expressed here are the author’s own and do not necessarily represent the views and opinions of the Rockefeller Center or constitute an endorsement by the Center.