The historic 2014 AAPG International Conference and Exhibition marked the first time an AAPG international conference was held in Istanbul – but that wasn’t the only new dynamic at work.
The theme for the meeting – hosted by the Turkish Association of Petroleum Geologists and the AAPG Europe and Middle East Regions – was “The Spirit Between Continents: Energy Geosciences in a Changing World.”
Building on that theme there were a number of successful activities for Young Professionals (YPs) and students that delivered an unforgettable conference experience to both groups.
Here is the summary of the two main activities for these groups that were held during ICE:
♦ YP Meet-N-Greet.
The Meet-N-Greet, which has become an increasingly popular event at both AAPG annual and international meetings, took place in a room packed by approximately 100 participants and more than 40 professionals (mentors), including representatives from many of the major oil and gas companies.
The event started with a welcome speech from Catherine Wasse, co-chair of the Student and Young Professionals program in Istanbul, and the crowd was then dispersed into smaller mentoring groups.
This event ran along the lines of “speed dating:” After 15 minutes the mentors moved tables, rotating as frequently as possible to enable varied interaction and time for the mentees to chat with each other.
Throughout the sessions, the mentees made use of the precious time to ask as many questions as possible on topics such as:
- Interview tips.
- Suggestions for improvements to their master’s projects.
- Possible career paths.
AAPG President Randi Martinsen’s appearance was the highlight for many attendees as she joined the others in actively sharing her experiences about field trips and professional growth.
After enjoying complimentary refreshments, the attendees were then led together into the main hall for the opening ceremony.
“I always enjoy these events, and this was a bit more structured – and with a greeter, which I think was a fine idea,” said mentor (and AAPG treasurer) Jim Tucker. “I found a number of groups of YPs and students to talk with, and learn a bit about them and their career plans.”
“It was my first experience of YP Meet-N-Greet session, which I have enjoyed a lot and spent a great time with the young professionals,” said mentee Subhashree Mishra. “The specialty of this session for me was conversations between the experienced peoples and young geologists, (who) exchanged knowledge about new carrier ventures in a very friendly environment. It also helps me to proceed in my research field.”
♦ Student Reception.
This year’s Student Reception, sponsored by ExxonMobil, was held in the Hilton Hotel ballroom. Inspirational opening speeches were given by Jamie White (exploration manager of the Asia Pacific Middle East, ExxonMobil) and Randi Martinsen.
Approximately 100 students attended and had the chance to talk with employees of ExxonMobil and members of the AAPG over drinks. There was a lot of interaction and the setting provided a great opportunity to network.
Shell sponsored 53 students with funds that went toward travel and accommodation costs. In return, the students became volunteer workers during ICE – and did a superb job in their respective roles.
In fact, the conference would not have run as smoothly without them.
Want to know more about YP activities in your area? Visit our website at aapg.org/youngpros, and contact your Region or Section representative.