Students from the communication and psychology departments attended the National Communication Association’s (NCA) conference in New Orleans on November 21.
Communication students Anna Bowie and Ashley Elliot and psychology student Hannah Huddleston had the opportunity to attend several panels at NCA.
The topics covered ranged from queer utopia in “The Last of Us” to communication involving women’s reproductive health.
A highlight for Elliot was when she and Dr. Mindy Weathers presented their research on online dating abuse at a round table discussion panel.
“I really enjoyed NCA because I was able to present research for the first time,” said Elliot.
NCA was an invaluable experience for students to experience culture and professional opportunity.
“Being my first communication conference, I was able to interact with multiple diverse groups of individuals and research projects,” said Huddleston. “As well as experience the coming together of these individuals for the common goal of creating, learning and sharing valuable information that I will take with me for the rest of my life.”
Huddleston added that she appreciated the environment and those involved.
After the conference, the students visited historical locations like Café Du Monde and St. Louis Cathedral, which was just as valuable as the conference with the exposure to the unique culture.
“I really liked being able to experience the culture of a new place,” said Elliot.
Bowie further expanded, “I have never experienced a culture quite like New Orleans. It was unique, with such deep-seated history around every corner. Certainly, a place I will never forget!”