My experience at the WHA Conference was both enriching and transformative for my professional growth as a historian. The conference offered a wealth of opportunities, from attending diverse sessions and plenary discussions to participating in receptions that fostered meaningful connections. I had the privilege of presenting my historical research and serving as a panel chair, both of which honed my skills in public speaking and scholarly discourse. Engaging in thought-provoking conversations throughout the event deepened my insights and broadened my perspective, reinforcing my development as a dedicated historian.

As a graduate student and emerging scholar, I attended the Graduate Student Reception to connect with peers navigating similar academic journeys. Through conversations, I gained valuable insights into their historical research, methodologies, and fellowship opportunities that could inform and enhance my own work. In turn, I was eager to share resources and offer my support, encouraging a spirit of mutual exchange and collaboration.

Among the many panels I attended, one of the most impactful was “Rising Up on Contested Ground: Women’s Gender, and Sexualities History in the Western and Southern Borderlands,” sponsored by the Coalition for Western Women’s History. As a junior scholar focusing on women, race, and labor, I eagerly attended this panel seeking guidance and inspiration. One persistent challenge in studying women’s history is demonstrating their roles and significance in historical narratives. The panelists offered invaluable strategies for uncovering and incorporating women’s voices into history, sparking numerous insights. I found myself fully engaged, taking detailed notes, and deeply inspired by the compelling discussion, especially by panelist Dr. Tiffany Jasmine Gonzalez.

After the session, I approached Dr. Gonzalez to thank her for her wisdom and participation. As a Latina with a Ph.D. in history, she embodies a rare and empowering presence in the field. Seeing her success and passion renewed my determination to pursue my own path, making this panel an unforgettable highlight of the conference.

I had the opportunity to present my primary research on the panel “Sex, Labor, Mobilization: Early Twentieth Century Women of the California and Texas Borderlands,” chaired by Dr. Sonia Hernandez. My presentation explored the experiences of Chicanas and Mexicanas working in the El Paso garment industry during the 20th century. It was incredibly rewarding to see audience members engaged, asking thoughtful questions, and showing genuine curiosity about our work. Dr. Hernandez, with her expertise in gender, labor, and the U.S.-Mexico Borderlands, was an ideal chair for the panel. Our shared research interests led to an exciting invitation to collaborate on another conference panel, which I eagerly accepted.

Presenting my research at the WHA conference not only allowed me to refine my presentation skills but also to build valuable professional networks that enhance my curriculum vitae for the job market. More importantly, the conference provided a platform to amplify the history of ethnic Mexicans and their labor experiences along the U.S.-Mexico borderlands, fostering connections with scholars who share a passion for this critical field of study.

In addition to presenting my research, I had the honor of chairing the panel “Early-Stage Research Lightning Round,” sponsored by the WHA Graduate Student Caucus. This panel provided three graduate students with a valuable platform to present their dissertation topics and receive guidance from esteemed historians on navigating the research and writing process. The room was filled with engaged audience members, captivated by the students' innovative topics and the insightful advice offered by Dr. Larisa Veloz and Dr. Brian Frehner.

After the session, Dr. Veloz expressed her admiration for the panel's success and complimented me on my effectiveness as chair. Her enthusiasm and positive feedback were particularly meaningful, and she encouraged me to chair a similar panel at the following year's conference in Albuquerque. This experience not only strengthened my organizational and leadership skills but also reinforced the importance of fostering supportive spaces for emerging scholars.

Lastly, attending the book publishing tables prompted me to reflect on potential publishing avenues. As an advanced Ph.D. candidate, identifying suitable publishers is an essential next step in my academic journey.  These conversations marked my first direct interaction with editors, whose enthusiasm for my work was both affirming and invigorating. I left the press booths with a clearer vision of pursuing publication with either the University of North Carolina Press or the University of Texas Press, both distinguished for their contributions to borderlands scholarship, which aligns profoundly with the scope and intervention of my research.

I have consistently pursued opportunities that have shaped me into the scholar I am today and continue to strive to become. By actively sharing my historical research and engaging in meaningful conversations, I have built valuable professional networks. Attending the WHA this year allowed me to achieve these goals and exceed my expectations. Another highlight was receiving an invitation from scholars specializing in the political economy of the U.S.-Mexico Borderlands to join their panel at next year’s WHA—an opportunity I enthusiastically accepted. Experiences like these reaffirm my commitment to contributing to the field and building connections that enhance my academic journey, especially in spaces like the WHA conference.