The ESA Annual Meeting is a perfect opportunity for students in entomology to take the next step in their academic careers. Events like the new member reception at Entomology 2025, shown here, offer a chance for attendees to meet and make new connections. (Photo by James Palczewski, Entomological Society of America)

By Sabina Parajuli

Editor’s Note: This post is part of a series contributed by the ESA Student Affairs Committee. See other posts by and for entomology students here at Entomology Today.

Students in entomology spend most of their time in the lab or out in the field, conducting research, and developing methods and materials. For some students, presenting their research findings clearly and understandably can be challenging. Every year, the Entomological Society of America hosts an Annual Meeting that provides a platform for students and researchers to share their research findings with fellow experts and scientists. This is a great opportunity to learn, network with fellow researchers, and expand your knowledge.

The 2025 ESA Annual Meeting took place in Portland, Oregon, November 9-12, at the Oregon Convention Center. This was my first major conference, and I was both nervous and excited. On November 9, we began by registering, and thanks to the volunteers, the process went smoothly. There was a presentation room for speakers or participants in student competitions to practice. As a first-time attendee, you might feel a bit uncertain about where things are or how the process works, but don’t be afraid to ask for help. Once you review and upload the presentation to the ESA site, you can feel a great weight lifted.

Navigating Multiple Talks

Each day, many talks were held simultaneously across different ESA Sections. For first-time attendees, it can be confusing to know where to go. Each Section had its own assigned room, and the Oregon Convention Center was huge. I had difficulties finding a room on the first day. One helpful tip is to use the ESA Annual Meeting mobile app (search “ESA Annual Meeting” in the iOS or Android app store). It shows the ESA meeting schedule in one place and provides directions to talks and symposia. Planning your day using the ESA app in advance makes it easier to navigate the program efficiently.

Elizabeth Rowen, Ph.D., of the University of California, Riverside, discusses cropping systems for pest management at Entomology 2025. (Photo by Sabina Parajuli)

Tom Bilbo, Ph.D., of Clemson University discusses cropping systems for pest management at Entomology 2025. (Photo by Sabina Parajuli)

Presenting Research for the First Time

ESA provides a platform for all scientists and researchers, including graduate and undergraduate students, to share their research via either oral presentation or poster. Sharing the findings of field- and lab-based research with other researchers and experts creates opportunities to exchange ideas, receive feedback, and practice critical thinking.

For me, presenting at ESA for the first time was both nerve-wracking and exciting. I presented my research titled “Integrating rye cover crop, alyssum, and predatory mites for enhanced biological control in organic zucchini production.” As a graduate student, this was an invaluable opportunity to receive feedback from a diverse community, which has directly helped shape the next steps of my research. After giving my presentation, I attended several talks that I found informative, and that allowed me to explore other fields as well.

Awards and Motivation

ESA recognizes the contributions of people who continually work to improve society and the environment. All the winners of the student competition, along with early-career professionals and extension, were recognized for their excellence in their respective fields. I believe these awards motivate individuals to work hard and remain dedicated to entomology and science. Research can be challenging, with successes and failures, but recognition like this encourages persistence and dedication.

Networking and Community

ESA meetings are usually about networking, learning, and exploring. People who are passionate about insects gather in one place. A welcome reception and a student mixer were organized during the ESA Annual Meeting to encourage networking. These events were invaluable for first-time attendees, providing opportunities to meet new people and expand networks. You can meet experts, old colleagues, and new friends working in related fields and connect with communities that help you learn and grow.

The Society of Overseas Nepalese Entomologists is one of several groups that host annual gatherings at the ESA Annual Meeting. Shown here are attendees at Entomology 2025. (Photo by Sabina Parajuli)

ESA also provides a platform for international communities to gather, develop networks, and share ideas with like-minded people. For example, the Society of Overseas Nepalese Entomologists, the Taiwanese Entomologist Association, and the Korean Young Entomologists Group host symposia and meetings to connect with people from their home countries. This helps build strong connections and share ideas through national and international media, creating a bridge for scientists and researchers in respective countries who cannot attend these meetings in person.

Fun Side of ESA

Multnomah Falls is Oregon’s tallest waterfall. It is located 30 miles east of downtown Portland. It has trails and viewpoints, and a hiking trail that leads to the top and the upper falls. When you stand midway up the falls, you can feel the mist on your face; it’s amazing. (Photo by Sabina Parajuli)

ESA meetings are not only about research talks: They are also about fun and games. Every year, ESA organizes the Entomology Games. The competition happens first at the Branch level, and the top two teams from each Branch receive travel support to attend the Entomology Games at the Annual Meeting. These games test participants’ ability to identify insects and insect-related problems. This game also provides a platform for connecting students, professionals, and enthusiasts with diverse entomological interests. In addition, the Exhibit Hall is a fun place to explore. Attendees could get professional headshots and buy gifts for bug-loving friends or colleagues. I think these insect-themed gifts would make a unique and pleasant surprise for anyone interested in entomology.

Traveling and exploring new places can also help refresh the mind and improve productivity. Portland is a beautiful city with many scenic areas. Visiting Multnomah Falls with a group of friends was an amazing, nature-filled experience. The Japanese Garden is another beautiful place with serene scenery. And if you are a foodie like me, don’t forget to dive into the city and explore local cuisines.

Will You Be There?

I truly enjoyed my experience as a first-time presenter at Entomology 2025, and I highly recommend my fellow entomology students to take the leap to attend the ESA Annual Meeting as well. Look for the presentation and poster submission period in 2026 (and every year) to open in April, with a deadline at the end of May. Maybe I will see you there!

Sabina Parajuli is a graduate research assistant studying the habitat management of insect pests in organic vegetable production at Clemson University. Email: [email protected] or [email protected].