.png)
.png)
Who is Adalyn?
Adalyn is a dynamic junior at Valdosta State University (VSU) with an impressive track record of leadership and advocacy. Originally from Kansas City, MO, she moved to Valdosta, GA to pursue a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Organizational Communication, where she is thriving both academically and socially.
​
Adalyn has a long-standing commitment to service, having served as club Historian and Membership Chair for the National Council of Negro Women. She currently holds the esteemed position of President of VSU SWAP and serves as a Secretary on the Board of Directors for the National Association of Students With A Purpose SPC (NASWAP).
​
Her dedication to social justice and leadership has not gone unnoticed, as she was recently awarded the Roosevelt in Washington 2023 Fellowship for this summer in Washington DC through the Roosevelt Institute. This highly competitive six-month leadership and professional development program provides targeted skill-building training, mentorship from Network alumni, and placement into a nine-week summer internship within the Roosevelt Institute, supporting progressive policy career exploration.
Adalyn is also a proud Unite 2030 Ambassador, having attended the United Nations Unite 2030 Summit with CWU’s SWAP, where they collaborated on solutions to some of the world's most pressing problems. Her transformative experience inspired her to fight for social justice and use her voice to advocate for marginalized communities. Adalyn believes in creating a society that values and respects each other's differences and is passionate about developing an organization at VSU SWAP where members can build lifelong friendships, learn how to advocate and be prepared for their future careers while serving others.
Adalyn is a true powerhouse and a shining example of the type of leader and advocates our world needs.
What is WorldCUR?
The World Congress on Undergraduate Research (WorldCUR) is one of the largest professional academic gatherings focusing on interdisciplinary research and allows fellow researchers to connect on an international level. Following on from the successful events at Oldenburgh 2019 & Qatar 2016, this will be the 3rd iteration of the World Congress on Undergraduate Research cementing its presence as a regular, prominent showcasing platform for undergraduate research.
When & where is the conference?
.png)
Why is this important to the student experience?
Presenting at conferences is an essential part of professional development for college students for several reasons. Firstly, it provides a platform for students to share their research findings and engage with other professionals in their field, thereby expanding their knowledge and networks. This can lead to valuable collaborations, potential job opportunities, and even publication opportunities.
​
Additionally, presenting at conferences allows students to develop their presentation and communication skills, which are essential in any professional field. It requires them to present complex ideas in a clear and concise manner and respond to questions and feedback from experts in their field.
​
However, underrepresented students often face systemic barriers that limit their access to these types of opportunities. These barriers can include a lack of financial resources to attend conferences, limited access to professional networks, and bias and discrimination in the academic environment.
​
This lack of access is particularly detrimental because it perpetuates the already-existing disparities in representation within professional fields. Without opportunities to present their research and network with professionals in their field, underrepresented students may struggle to find a place in the academic and professional communities.
​
Addressing these barriers and providing opportunities for underrepresented students to participate in conferences and other professional development opportunities is crucial for promoting diversity and inclusivity in academia and beyond. It can help to break down systemic barriers and support the success and advancement of all students, regardless of their background or identity.