Community: Undergraduate Students, Scientists

At the many professional organizational meetings I attended, it quickly became clear to a group of us, that there was a huge gap between students and scientists.  Students were intimidated in these meeting situations and were not able to take full advantage of what there was to offer.

As part of the education and public outreach teams for the American Astronomical Society and the Solar Physics Division, we developed an undergraduate reception that brought together students and scientists, including the heads of all the organizations.  After a brief welcome, the education and public outreach team ensured students and scientists were interacting and breaking the ice.

The end result was a palatable reduction in intimidation on the parts of the students and an active effort by scientists to make students feel welcome and integrated. Feedback from students showed this experience was invaluable and made the feel as an integrated member of the scientific community.