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About the Conference

The School of Social and Family Dynamics at Arizona State University is proud to host the first annual Professional Development Conference for Undergraduates Interested in Graduate Training in Family and Child Sciences. This conference is designed to bring together eager and bright students to learn about the exciting changes and facets of family and child sciences. Undergraduate students from across the country who are seniors and planning to pursue graduate education in a discipline related to family and child sciences (family studies, human development, sociology, psychology, education, life sciences, etc.) will be brought together on campus for a weekend of discussions about where the field is going, opportunities in the field, interdisciplinary research and education, preparing for graduate school, and general discussions with faculty and graduate students in the field. This competitive conference will allow students to learn more about the profession, develop networks of faculty and students from across the country, and help prepare for graduate school and beyond. Conference attendees will learn about diverse graduate programs, but the conference will focus on research-oriented programs leading to PhDs and research-based careers.

Students who are selected to attend will be provided with funding to pay for all travel-related expenses (airfare, local transportation, board, and meals). Students will attend interactive discussion sessions over the course of the 2 days of the conference, Students will attend interactive discussion sessions over the course of the 2 days of the conference, and will not be required to prepare any materials for presentation. Opportunities for socializing and individual sessions will also be provided.

Why Should I Participate?

This is an opportunity for you to:

• Learn about research in the field of family/child sciences and the dramatic changes that are taking place
• Enhance your understanding of academic training in a small, informal setting
• Interact with faculty and graduate students in your field
• Exchange ideas with other undergraduates and learn about their experiences at different institutions of higher education
• Prepare yourself for graduate school and develop a better understanding of research and training at the graduate level
• Enhance your resume

The conference provides an excellent forum for developing your intellectual skills, becoming better prepared for graduate school, exploring your research interests, and identifying areas for graduate training in family and child sciences.

You an find out more about an exciting career in Family and Human Development or Sociology at: http://ssfd.clas.asu.edu/programs.