Finding Community at Sharks International 2026: Reflections from a First-Time Conference Attendee

About me and my research

I am a Master’s student with the Fish and Fisheries Lab at James Cook University, where my research focuses on quantifying tiger shark predation on albatross fledglings at Kure Atoll in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands.

Kure Atoll is located within the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, one of the largest protected areas in the world. My research examines predator-prey interactions between tiger sharks and albatross fledglings, providing valuable baseline information that can contribute to future comparisons across seasons, locations, and protected versus non-protected areas.

Before joining the marine science community, my background was actually in aviation, so attending Sharks International was my first scientific conference and my first shark-focused conference. It was a completely new experience, and one that I will not forget.

Finding my place in a global shark community

One of my favorite parts of Sharks International was the atmosphere. From the moment I arrived, it was obvious that everyone attending was there because they genuinely cared about sharks, rays, and marine conservation.

Because it was an international conference, I had the opportunity to see firsthand that although researchers may come from different countries, backgrounds, and work with different species, we are all connected by the same passion: protecting the future of sharks and rays.

It was exciting to be surrounded by people who were not attending because they had to be there, but because they wanted to be there. This was evident throughout the entire conference…from the talks and poster sessions to workshops and side events. Presenters were enthusiastic about sharing their work, and audiences were genuinely engaged. Often, Q&A sessions would run out of time, but that did not stop people from approaching speakers afterward to continue discussions.

One small but memorable example of the conference spirit was the Wi-Fi password, which included rays alongside sharks. Of course, there was also a small group reminding everyone: “Don’t forget chimaeras!” Even within a community united by sharks and rays, there were still little groups celebrating their own interests, which made the conference feel even more welcoming to those with niche topics.

Lessons from my first conference

One of the biggest things I learned was the value of simply being there. Conferences are not only about presenting your own research…they are opportunities to learn how other scientists communicate their ideas, design their posters, and engage with audiences.

Walking through the poster sessions was especially valuable. Before this conference, I got the impression that posters were somehow less important than oral presentations. However, my experience completely changed that perspective.

A talk might last five to eight minutes, and if someone is not in the room because they are attending another session, that connection may never happen. Posters create a different type of interaction. Researchers can spend more time discussing ideas, asking questions, and having genuine conversations.

I got to stand with my poster for two hours over two days and got to have in-depth conversations with every person who stopped to discuss my research was an opportunity to connect. The conversations were often detailed, collaborative, and incredibly valuable. Every person who stopped at my poster was a success.

Advice for future students

If you are considering attending Sharks International or another scientific conference, my advice is: go if you can.

Many conferences offer travel awards or scholarships, so apply. If you do not ask, the answer is already no.

I would also encourage students not to worry too much about how they are “supposed” to look or act at a conference. Before attending, I had been told that conferences required business casual attire. While there is nothing wrong with dressing formally, I found that being comfortable helped me participate more confidently. I found most of the conference goers prioritizing the same.

You are going to spend long days at a conference, so wear something that makes you feel comfortable. Maybe even something that starts a conversation—Sharks International had a passion dress event, so yes, a shark costume was absolutely acceptable!

Most importantly: embrace being yourself. Scientists can sometimes be a group of socially awkward people placed together and expected to immediately network. Do not be afraid to “get your weird on.” Those shared moments are often what create the strongest connections.

When approaching researchers, I would also suggest focusing on genuine conversations rather than immediately asking for opportunities. People enjoy talking about their work, so ask questions, learn about their research, and be interested in their experiences. If a connection develops naturally, that is much more meaningful.

Building connections beyond the conference

One unexpected highlight of Sharks International was reconnecting with the wider Fish and Fisheries Lab community. The lab had an incredible presence at the conference, with 21 members attending and contributing through presentations, panels, and discussions.

Walking around the conference wearing my Fish and Fisheries Lab shirt and polo made me feel proud. We were representing our lab, our research, and the collaborative environment that makes it such a great place to be.

I also had the opportunity to meet Cassie Rigby, an adjunct member of the Fish and Fisheries Lab. Although I had seen her profile on the lab website, we had never actually met. By chance, we ended up in the same line getting smoothies at the conference. After recognizing the James Cook University connection on her name tag, we started talking, and that conversation eventually led to her joining one of our lab meetings as a guest speaker.

Her presentation was incredibly valuable, and although she was originally scheduled for a short speaking slot, the discussion continued for much longer because students had so many questions. It was a great reminder that conferences are not just about the scheduled program…they are about the unexpected connections that happen along the way.

Experiencing Sri Lanka

Outside of the conference, experiencing Sri Lanka was another highlight. The tuk-tuks were definitely an adventure! I had considered renting a car before arriving, but I am very grateful that I did not. Driving there would have been a challenge, and the tuk-tuk drivers were incredibly helpful and friendly.

Because I do not have a smartphone, I experienced transportation in a much more traditional way than many other visitors. Rather than using apps, I had to flag down tuk-tuks, negotiate prices, and navigate by communicating directly with drivers. While challenging at times, it allowed me to experience a different side of daily life in Sri Lanka.

I also appreciated that Sharks International was held in a location where the conference could provide opportunities for global exchange and visibility. Bringing together researchers from around the world in a country like Sri Lanka was a valuable reminder that marine conservation is a truly global effort.

Final thoughts

Attending Sharks International was an experience that went far beyond presenting research. It helped me see that I am part of a much larger scientific community…one filled with passionate, curious, and collaborative people working toward a shared goal.

For anyone considering attending their first conference, I would encourage you to take the opportunity. You may learn new science, improve your presentation skills, or find inspiration for your own research. But most importantly, you may discover a community that makes you feel like you belong.