Peer Symposium

Peer Symposium

NewFoS Peer Symposium Series

The Peer Symposium brings together students, postdocs, and researchers for an afternoon of connection, collaboration, and professional growth through a collaboration between Knowledge Transfer and Education and Broader Participation. It’s a chance to share ideas, strengthen our community, and kick off our Professional Development Series—a four-part program designed to help you grow your skills, expand your network, and set yourself up for success.

Goals:

  • Build a supportive environment for peer connections and collaboration.
  • Strengthen participants’ sense of belonging in STEM and higher education.
  • Provide tools, mentorship, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Encourage collaborative discussions and projects that connect to NewFoS research in Topological Acoustics.
Event 1 – September 18: Starting Strong with a Strong CV 
Learned CV foundations, gained mentor insights, and exchanged feedback with peers. 
For this session, we were thrilled to host a CV workshop led by Dr. Jhonatan Henao-Muñoz, Assistant Professor of Practice, W.A. Franke Honors College. 
 

Upcoming Sessions in the Series: 

  • Event 2 – Oct 16: Presenting Yourself & Your Research – Pitch practice, business card design, and research showcase. 
  • Event 3 – Nov 14: Career Tools – Strengthen applications, refine your writing, and exchange polished CVs. 
  • Event 4 – Dec 11: Building Your Digital Identity – Create a professional website and explore development opportunities. 
By the end of the series, participants will have: 
A polished CV tailored to their career path. 
A professional business card. 
A strong draft application or cover letter. 
A starter website/digital presence. 
A stronger peer and mentor network. 
 

Organizing Committee

The Peer Symposium Committee is a voluntary group of students who dedicate their time and expertise to support the planning, coordination, and success of the symposium. By bringing together diverse perspectives, the committee ensures that the program reflects the interests and needs of participants. Their work includes shaping the agenda, planning the topics, and providing feedback to enhance the overall experience. Through their collaborative efforts, the committee helps create a meaningful, engaging, and impactful symposium for the entire community

Abhirup Basu

Abhirup Basu, University of Arizona

Akisanmi

Akinsanmi Ige, University of Arizona

Arturo

Arturo Whipple, University of Arizona

Elizabeth Whitney

Elizabeth Whitney, University of Alaska Fairbanks

Alice

Xiaoxiao Xiong (Alice), Caltech

Facilitators – Supporting the Committee

Eliana and Araceli serve as the facilitators for the Peer Symposium, supporting the committee and participants throughout the planning and implementation process. They help guide discussions, ensure smooth coordination, and provide the structure needed for productive collaboration. Their role is to encourage participation, create space for all voices to be heard, and keep the symposium aligned with its goals. By combining organizational support with a spirit of inclusivity, Eliana and Araceli help foster an environment where ideas can flourish and the community can grow stronger together

Araceli

Araceli Hernández Granados, University of Arizona

Eliana

Eliana Ortiz, University of Arizona

NewFoS members who would like access to the recordings can request them by emailing Araceli Hernández Granados at aracelihg@arizona.edu