University of Tennessee students in the Academy for Global Scholars attended the annual Society for International Development Conference.

SID-Washington’s first-ever virtual conference took place on October 7 and 8 and featured hundreds of international development professionals, various keynote speakers, and many opportunities to network in the virtual space.

Focusing on this year’s theme “Decade to Deliver,” attendees discussed and strategized ways to meet the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.

“I learned that there are so many people and organizations seeking to make differences in ways and places I have never heard of,” AGS participant Mary Roark said. “I found it very exciting to learn that there are companies that devote time and money to help areas and people develop across the globe.”

AGS students were able to join various sessions that addressed many different global topics. These panels included: “Focusing on Women and Girls in COVID Response and Recovery,” “Environment Implications of Infectious Diseases,” “Strategies and Toold for Addressing Inequalities,” and “Minimizing the Impact of COVID-19 on Food Security”. 

“I was able to learn more about the hardships so many people face daily that I never have and will never be exposed to,” Roark explained. 

Attending the SID conference was a unique opportunity for our first-year students to engage in the work of international development, network with global leaders and entrepreneurs, and think critically about ways to overcome the challenges facing our community. 

“There are jobs I have never even heard of that want someone like me who desires to make a difference,” Roark said.

The Academy for Global Scholars consists of 22 first-generation, first-year students who engage as a cohort in FYS 101 and a general education course, cultural programming, service activities, and a study abroad experience.

The Academy is a collaboration between the Division of Enrollment Management and the Center for Global Engagement.