Forum: Conferences, to go or not to go?

 Do you feel like attending conferences (both now and

following vet school) is a meaningful form of continuing education and networking?

Or do you prefer online options as the preferred wave of future veterinary continuing

education?

Response by Stephanie Silberstang

Cornell University

            During a time when technology is advancing exponentially and most of us choose the internet for the majority of our personal and professional interactions, I believe that there is still a place in our education for conferences where you can learn and meet people in person. As a veterinary student who has both attended conferences and completed online courses, I feel that attending conferences is the most meaningful and rewarding form of continuing education. Conferences allow for face to face interactions with peers and experts in the field and also allow for participants to experience new regions and facilities.

            I am a big fan of conferences ever since my first SAVMA Symposium in Madison, Wisconsin in 2010. I experienced many new things at this conference; it was my first time in Wisconsin, I participated in a wetlab that enabled me to perform my first surgery, and it was my first time visiting another veterinary school. All of these experiences made for an amazing time where I met many other veterinary students and had a chance to discuss the similarities and differences of our schools. In addition, I was able to pursue interests that are not addressed in my curriculum including a behavior wetlab and lab animal medicine.    

            In addition to experiencing a lot of “firsts,” I enjoy conferences because they are a wonderful place to make connections and network with other people in the veterinary community. There is a strong bond that happens when people are learning together, and I stay in contact with a few people that I have met at different conferences around the country. These connections are important for the veterinary profession because a strong veterinary community can be a united front to the public as scientists, educators and professionals.

            Although continuing education can be achieved through online courses, networking face to face with other people in the veterinary profession makes conferences worth attending. As a veterinary student who has both attended conferences and completed online courses, I much prefer to take a trip, meet new people and learn at a conference.