The Orlando Section of the ACS sponsored two students with Student Travel Awards to the Fall Meeting in Chicago.
FNU Joshua, graduate student at UCF in Dr. Lei Zhai’s group, shared that: attending the ACS Fall 2026 meeting was a very meaningful experience for me. It gave me the opportunity not only to present my research, but also to learn from researchers working across many different areas of chemistry. Seeing the current trends and emerging directions in chemistry-related research broadened my perspective and gave me new ideas that I can carry into my future research. I also appreciated the opportunity to discuss my work with other researchers, receive feedback, and make new professional connections. Overall, the conference helped me grow both scientifically and professionally, and I am very grateful for the travel award support that made this experience possible.
Alec DeCecco is a graduate student at UCF in Dr. Denisia Popolan-Vaida’s group. He shared that: A particularly important aspect of my participation was the opportunity to disseminate my own research to the broader scientific community. Presenting my work allowed me to share recent findings, receive constructive feedback from experts in related fields, and engage in discussions that helped refine my scientific perspectives. These interactions not only increased the visibility of my research but also provided valuable insights that will help guide future investigations.
In addition to presenting my work, I benefited greatly from interacting with scientists from diverse disciplines, institutions, and career stages. Exposure to a wide range of research topics and approaches broadened my understanding of current developments across the chemical sciences and encouraged me to consider new ways of addressing challenges within my own research program. The scientific presentations, discussions, and networking opportunities strengthened my ability to communicate my research to both specialists and broader scientific audiences while fostering potential future collaborations.
I am sincerely grateful to the ACS Orlando Section for its financial support, which made it possible for me to participate in this outstanding professional development experience. The opportunity to disseminate my research, engage in scientific exchange, and build new professional connections has been invaluable. The knowledge, feedback, and relationships gained through this experience will continue to contribute to the advancement of my research program and my growth as a scientist, educator, and mentor.