We are unashamedly blogging again about our upcoming conference today, with some practical information for all of those attending. All of our tickets have now sold out, so please don’t turn up on the day without having registered! It promises to be a fantastic day, and we are looking forward to meeting many of you. If you have registered, but did not receive an email over the weekend with a full booklet of conference information – please download it here (click the link, then the download button in the top-right corner).
Purpose
This, the first GfGD National Conference, is bringing together young geologists with a series of professionals from across the development sector (including those in industry, NGOs, academia, public policy and public sector surveys). Through a range of sessions, this one-day event will explore if and how geologists can contribute to the fight against global poverty. It will give participants both a ‘big picture’ overview of the opportunities available to them, and an opportunity to explore the skills young geologists will need to develop in order to contribute in an effective and sustainable manner throughout their careers. Through a series of presentations, discussions and networking, participants will have the opportunity to:
- Hear from those with a geoscience background working in international development, finding out more about possible career paths and ways to use their training and skills.
- Explore the range of skills required to achieve effective development when working in the developing world.
- Find out more about the work of GfGD and the opportunities we offer to students.
- View posters on topics of interest, presented by students, recent graduates and other key individuals.
- Meet students and recent graduates from across the UK that have a similar interest in international development.
Venue
The conference will be hosted by the Geological Society, and held at their premises (Burlington House) in Central London. This venue is easily accessible by public transport, being a short walk away from both Piccadilly Circus and Green Park tube stations. A map can be found here…
What To Bring?
We suggest you bring a notebook and a pen, as well as your lunch (see below). Please also remember to print your ticket and have it ready to show the team at registration.
Arrival
On arrival at the Geological Society, you should enter the building via the main entrance (opposite Fortnum and Mason). Registration will be open from 9.45am and tea/coffee will be served in the lower library. The conference will start at 10.15am, we would kindly request that you make every effort to arrive on time and be in your seat by 10.15 so that we can start promptly.
Lunch
Although we will not be providing lunch – we would encourage participants to consider bringing a packed lunch so as to maximise the time available for informal networking, looking at posters and talking with those speaking and organising the event. For those not able to bring packed lunches, the venue is close to a range of shops and cafes.
Suggested Reading
You can find details of some suggested reading and discussion activities on our website and would encourage participants to have a look at some of this before the event (www.gfgd.org/conferences/conference-reading). In the afternoon we will be having a discussion panel, based on some of this reading. You can submit questions in advance (http://goo.gl/bSEQ2C) or bring them on the day.
Poster & Drinks Reception
Our formal sessions will finish at 5.30pm and be followed by a poster and drinks reception. This is a fantastic opportunity to network, hear about others research and get inspiration for your own dissertations, GfGD projects and careers.
Calendar
We will have a small number of our official fundraising calendar available for sale during the lunch break, afternoon break and evening reception. With some brilliant geological images, these are only £5 and all profits will go to support and develop our work.
Feedback
We would appreciate you completing the feedback form, distributed on the day, helping us to improve future events.
Photography & Recording
Please note that official photographs will be taken throughout the conference and may be used on our website, blog and other publicity. If you do not wish to be photographed please indicate this to our photographer on the day. We will also be recording each session, including the participant questions and answers. By asking a question, you are consenting to this being used in the conference recordings.
