“This was my first time attending the SVRI Forum, and while I was so excited to meet everyone, I was also quite nervous! It’s a big and busy event, and I wasn’t sure how to navigate everything as an early career researcher. However, I found so much comfort in the Early Career Researchers  (ECR) group – everyone was in a similar situation, which gave me a sense of belonging. It also helped mitigate some of the imposter syndrome I was feeling! By creating a space to connect with other first timers, and by creating an opportunity to connect with the well-established “giants,” the ECR Group helped me find my place at SVRI and in the field. I met so many incredible researchers, and I’m so excited to continue to work with and learn alongside all of them!”