I am Sanjana Bhatia, a Ph.D. student in Nonlinear Optics at Panjab University, Chandigarh, India. Last month, I had the incredible opportunity to attend CLEO 2024 at the Charlotte Convention Center in North Carolina, USA. Organized by Optica, IEEE Photonics Society, and APS Division of Laser Science, this event was a whirlwind of innovation and collaboration from May 5-10, 2024.
As a final-year Ph.D. student, CLEO 2024 couldn’t have come at a more opportune time. It provided a platform not only to present my paper but also to explore potential post-doctoral opportunities and establish connections with industry leaders. Meeting luminaries like Prof. Govind Agrawal and Prof. Kippenberg was truly inspiring. Their insights into photonics and optics not only broadened my perspective but also fueled my passion for the field. One of the standout experiences of the conference was the opportunity to tour the state-of-the-art laboratories at the University of North Carolina. These visits offered a glimpse into the cutting-edge research and innovations happening in photonics.
The happy hour at the NASCAR Hall of Fame was an absolute blast! Picture this: a mix of networking and relaxation in an informal setting, surrounded by racing memorabilia and buzzing with the energy of fellow photonics enthusiasts. But that’s not all – there were interactive activities like tire-changing demos and adrenaline-pumping simulation-based racing events. Okay, so I might have come in last, but the thrill was unbeatable! And let’s talk about the people – I met folks from all corners of the globe, like Paula from Argentina, who shared captivating stories from her hometown near glaciers. It was a melting pot of cultures and experiences, adding an extra layer of excitement to an already fantastic evening. As a member of the Young Professionals Advisory Committee of the IEEE Photonics Society, I seized the opportunity to promote the advantages of volunteering within the society, emphasizing the enriching experiences it provides beyond academic endeavors.
The mentor-mentee meetups organized by the IEEE Photonics Society were another invaluable aspect of the conference. These sessions, held in the IEEE Members Lounge and accompanied by snacks, offered an invaluable opportunity to seek guidance and advice from seasoned professionals. Interacting with Prof. Deepa from IIT-Madras and Prof. William Renninger from Rochester proved pivotal as their insights and encouragement significantly influenced my perspective on career development and research goals.
The grand exhibition featuring cutting-edge photonics companies was a treasure trove of innovation. Exploring the latest products and advancements directly from industry leaders not only provided insights into practical applications but also highlighted the collaborative spirit between academia and industry. Oh, and let’s not forget about the goodies! Collecting swag from exhibitors added a fun element to the conference experience. Each item served as a memento of the event and a reminder of the vibrant photonics community.
Exploring Charlotte beyond the conference venue was a delightful adventure. From savoring the best coffee at Amelie’s to immersing myself in the wonders of the Discovery Science Museum, every moment added to the overall experience of the trip.
Special thanks to the Department of Science and Technology, India for the International Travel Grant, which made my participation in CLEO 2024 possible. In conclusion, this conference was truly transformative, shaping my future in photonics. I’m eager for more opportunities to learn, connect, and contribute to this dynamic field!
Written By: Sanjana Bhatia, Young Professionals Advisory Committee (YPAC) Representative
