Monday, September 23, 2024

Reflections from #GSAConnects2024 - Anaheim, California

This past week, I had the incredible opportunity to attend the Geological Society of America in Anaheim, California. It was an exciting and enriching experience, filled with insightful presentations, engaging discussions, and the chance to meet and learn from experts across a range of geo-related scientific disciplines. The atmosphere was buzzing with knowledge-sharing and innovation, and I felt honored to be a part of it.

I had the privilege of presenting my work on sedimentary successions in Western Cuba, focusing on Early Cretaceous carbon cycle dynamics. Sharing my findings with such a distinguished audience was both humbling and inspiring, and it sparked some great conversations about the broader implications of our research on global climate events and carbon sequestration. The feedback and enthusiasm from my peers were truly motivating, and I’m excited to incorporate new perspectives into my ongoing work.

One of the most special moments of the conference was meeting with GeoComunidad, an affinity group of hispanics in geosciences spread all over the world lead by Liannie Velazquez, Wilnelly Ventura and Miguel Valencia. Being part of this supportive and diverse community was incredibly empowering. It was inspiring to see so many talented hispanic geoscientists making an impact in our field, and the discussions about our shared experiences and challenges were invaluable. Connecting with GeoComunidad was a highlight of my trip, and I’m proud to be part of this growing network. It was great meeting renown scientists, reconnecting with former professors, and making new friends. 

Beyond the presentations and meetings, I’m leaving Anaheim with a renewed sense of purpose, energized by the knowledge and connections gained. I’m grateful for this experience and look forward to future collaborations that will continue to drive our field forward!

A great shout out goes out to the Cushman Foundation for Foraminiferal Research and its great scientists, to the doctors Vanessa Londono, Miguel Valencia, Yosmel Sanchez and Ricardo Barragan, for their friendship and company. And to my major advisor Dr. F. Maurrasse for making it all possible.