D3312: Harnessing the potential of engagement: ESA student empowerment initiatives

Tuesday, November 12, 2024

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM MST

Location: Phoenix Convention Center, Exhibit Hall 6, PCC

Presenting Author(s)

Anastasia M. Cooper (she/her/hers)

Postdoctoral Fellow
Auburn University
Opelika, Alabama

Co-Author(s)

Anastasia M. Cooper (she/her/hers)

Postdoctoral Fellow
Auburn University
Opelika, Alabama
FO

Flinn Martin O'Hara

PhD Student
University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida
LS

Laura Sparks

Marketing and Web Manager
Entomological Society of America
Annapolis, Maryland
Lidia Gual-Gonzalez

Postdoctoral Fellow
University of South Carolina
Columbia, South Carolina
Michelle Garwei Au (she/her/hers)

Graduate Research Assistant
University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
Honolulu, Hawaii
Jacqueline M. Maille (she/her/hers)

Ph.D. Graduate Research Assistant
Kansas State University
Manhattan, Kansas

Institutions focus on imparting hard skills to students, but the significance of soft skills like communication, leadership, motivation, ambition, and teamwork cannot be overlooked. The Entomological Society of America (ESA) offers myriad opportunities for student members to actively engage with the entomology community, whether through competitions, leadership roles, or service initiatives. By participating in ESA activities and initiatives, students not only acquire essential skills but also contribute meaningfully to the entomological field, staying abreast of industry advancements. Involvement in ESA fosters the development of a robust network and facilitates memorable experiences and skills vital for future academic and professional pursuits. We aim to spotlight the diverse avenues for student empowerment within ESA, extending beyond the Student Affairs Committee. We aspire to shed light on the opportunities accessible to students that may resonate with their aspirations and goals, thereby nurturing the future entomological leaders of tomorrow.