When I attended the International Studies Association- West Region (ISA-West) Conference last year, I saw other professors bringing their students to present at the conference. I thought to myself, “I’m going to bring Vanguard students next year to ISA-West.” So when I invited my students to apply to present at the 2026 ISA-West, it was an exciting day when the acceptance emails came in! Three of our best students got in! The next step was working with our department, the History and Political Science department, to see if we can get them funding to present their work. I’m so thankful when our chair, Dr. Mike Jimenez made sure our HPS students received some financial support.
Seeing the students at the conference was a completely different experience from seeing them in class. They dressed up and carried themselves like scholars. I attended every one of their presentations, and I’ll admit I was a very proud professor sitting in the audience smiling at them to show support and cheer them on. I watched them present their research papers with polished slide decks with confidence and passion. I watched them take notes and listen to feedback on their research from the discussants. I saw them field questions, respond graciously, and think on their feet during the Q&A.
I went to the conference luncheon make sure I grabbed four seats so that we can all sit together. We sat with other scholars from other countries and out-of-state institutions. It was a joy to see them network. They struck up conversations with experts who share their passion for international relations. They traded contact information, asked thoughtful questions, and made connections that I know will open more opportunities for them in the future. My goal for them was to help our Vanguard students realize that they are part of a larger academic community, and that there is a place for them in it. I think mission accomplished!
To anyone who is thinking about encouraging students to apply for a conference and attending a conference with students, I say go for it! Watching Vanguard students step up into the field, and being there to witness their growth, was one of the highlights of my year.
