Perspective: The unexpected 51-hour conversation (An emphasis on the importance of in-person encounters)

Abstract

I pursued a graduate degree for rapid professional progress; the experience during graduate school enhanced my effectiveness professionally. Online education was the right fit for earning a degree, as it allowed for schedule flexibility and access to a diverse student base. As I moved from a commercial supply chain into the public health sector, I realized a missed opportunity in failing to deeply connect with student peers. These peers lived in the countries I was now aiming to support. The online experience did not have in-person encounters that allow for easier networking. Additionally, these countries often experience infrastructure challenges which make virtual forms of communications less leverageable. Despite advances in technology, I find myself traveling long distances to meet supply chain teams in person to properly diagnose supply chain challenges and explore innovations for public health.