The Importance of In-Person Connections

The return of in-person events after a period of virtual meetings has highlighted the significance of direct human interactions in the field of infectious diseases. Attendees expressed how their experiences at conferences have evolved, noting a shift from participating in numerous sessions to engaging in meaningful networking and mentorship opportunities. These face-to-face connections allow for spontaneity, fostering relationships that are harder to develop online, and ultimately enhancing professional collaboration. The discussions emphasized the need to balance virtual accessibility with the invaluable benefits of personal engagement, particularly for early-career professionals and trainees.