Finally, I can say I've reached a small milestone in my academic journey. Standing at the podium of the IEEEVR 2024 conference, presenting our paper titled "Navigating Gender Biases in XR: Towards Equitable Technological Futures," was a moment I had envisioned countless times. As my first time presenting at such a grand venue, I won't lie my legs were literally shaking. But as I spoke, the support and warmth of the community turned my nerves into excitement and my doubts into confidence.
I had imagined the podium many times. In those imaginary versions, my legs were significantly less shaky. Real life was less cinematic: nerves, slides, a room full of people whose work I respected, and the sudden awareness that I had to begin talking.
Then the research took over. I knew why gender bias in XR mattered, I knew the work, and I wanted the conversation to exist. That first presentation taught me that confidence does not always arrive before the moment. Sometimes you start with shaking legs and discover it halfway through the sentence.
I am deeply thankful for this incredible journey, which has been both enlightening and filled with growth. A special word of gratitude is extended to my advisor, Arya Basu, Ph.D., whose unwavering support and guidance have been the lighthouse guiding me through my academic voyage. Deep gratitude to my professor, Jan P Springer whose expertise and encouragement have profoundly influenced me, the Emerging Analytics Center at UA Little Rock for its inspiring research setting, and University of Arkansas at Little Rock for fostering a vibrant academic community all crucial in achieving this academic landmark.
Thank you to Lee Lisle, Cassidy R. Nelson, Nayara Faria, Rafael N. C. Patrick, Ph.D., Dylan Fox, Aleshia, Missie Smith, Tabitha Peck, Sun Joo (Grace) Ahn for creating an inviting and stimulating environment at IDEATExR workshop. Your efforts have enabled us to showcase our research and engage in meaningful dialogues, paving the way for us to further the vision of Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, Transparency, and Ethics in Extended Reality (XR).
Interacting with numerous esteemed professors in our field was incredibly valuable, providing insights that will significantly inform my future research and professional paths. The opportunity to engage academics across our discipline's lineage also enriched my perspective, deepening my appreciation for the vast scope and intricate connections within our community.
The discussions with fellow researchers and Student Volunteers (SVs) at the conference were extraordinary. The metaphorical roller coaster of our experiences, intertwined with the literal magic of Disney, made each session and dinner conversation a thrilling ride of intellectual and personal discovery. Being an SV and connecting with so many passionate individuals from around the globe provided a unique opportunity to understand the diverse tapestry of research within our field. This experience has been an unforgettable journey of learning, sharing, and growing together.
As I look back on these moments, my heart is full of gratitude and my mind is buzzing with ideas. I am already looking forward to the next gathering of brilliant minds at SIGGRAPH 2024. Until then, let's keep pushing the boundaries of what's possible!!
#IEEEVR2024
#FirstTimePresenter
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Research taught me to stay with a question longer than is comfortable, then explain the answer clearly enough for someone else to challenge it. That combination of patience and public conversation keeps shaping how I work.