Student Spotlight: Setora Latipova, Harvard University Conference

Setora Latipova '25 BA (Economics) was an attendee and presenter at the International Conference on Business, Economics, Management, and Finance at Harvard University in Boston, MA.

What advice do you have for other students looking for a similar experience, or advice for future students to be successful?

I want to share some advice based on my journey and experiences in securing the opportunity to participate in an International Conference on Business, Economics, Management, and Finance at Harvard University. Here are some valuable insights that I believe could help you achieve similar remarkable experiences:

1. Network and Build Relationships: Take the initiative to connect with professionals and experts in your field. Attend seminars, workshops, and events where you can engage in meaningful conversations. Don't hesitate to strike up discussions with peers and experts to expand your network.
2. Discover Your Passion: Identify a specific area within your field that truly resonates with you. Passion fuels dedication and excellence. Once you've found your passion, it will set you on a unique path and make you stand out to mentors and conference organizers.
3. Embrace Feedback: Welcome constructive criticism and feedback. Embracing feedback helps you refine your work, address weaknesses, and elevate your research and presentation skills.
4. Persist with Determination: Success often involves facing challenges and setbacks. Maintain your determination, stay enthusiastic, and continually refine your skills and knowledge.

How did Eller prepare you for this experience?

Eller College of Management played a crucial role in preparing me for the remarkable experience of participating in the International Conference on Business, Economics, Management, and Finance at Harvard University. The education, guidance, and opportunities I received at Eller significantly contributed to my success in securing and making the most of this conference participation.Eller's rigorous academic programs provided me with a strong foundation in my field of study. The comprehensive coursework and insightful lectures equipped me with the knowledge and analytical skills necessary to excel in research and academic pursuits.Eller's positive and encouraging environment fostered a sense of confidence and self-belief. This mindset was pivotal when facing the competitive selection process and during my presentation at the conference.

Anything else you would like to share about your summer experience?

The process leading to my participation in the International Conference on Business, Economics, Management, and Finance at Harvard University was a remarkable journey, culminating in an enriching experience that exceeded all expectations.
To initiate this journey, I engaged in the application process with great enthusiasm. I filled out the application meticulously, presenting my aspirations and research journey in the realm of Islamic Finance. One of the pivotal moments in this process was the submission of my thesis—a culmination of dedication, research, and exploration into the intricate landscape of Islamic Finance.

The subsequent phase was marked by anticipation as the selection process unfolded. This stage extended for about a month, during which my thesis underwent a rigorous evaluation by experts in the fields of Business, Economics, Management, and Finance. This time was filled with both excitement and anxiety, as I awaited the verdict that would determine my participation in the conference.

Finally, the long-anticipated acceptance letter arrived, bearing the incredible news of my selection to present at the International Conference at Harvard University. The elation and sense of accomplishment were immeasurable—my research and presentation had met the high standards set by this prestigious platform.

The conference itself was an unforgettable experience that brought together an array of brilliant minds from across the globe. Held from July 24th to 28th, the conference provided a vibrant platform for me to present my work on Islamic Finance to an engaged audience. What made the experience even more impactful was the diverse international presence—from more than 20 countries including Mexico, the UK, Switzerland, Poland, Georgia, Nigeria, Australia, China, Japan, and beyond. This global convergence of perspectives enriched the discussions, fostering a unique cross-cultural exchange of ideas.

In a delightful twist of fate, my presentation at the conference garnered remarkable acclaim. The reverberations of this accomplishment led to yet another astonishing opportunity—an invitation to participate in the World Conference on Entrepreneurial Marketing and Finance in Arabic Countries. This forthcoming conference, scheduled for February 2024 in Doha, Qatar, presents an exciting new chapter in my academic journey. In September, I attended a public forum in Geneva, Switzerland.

The path from submitting my application to presenting at Harvard University to receiving a second invitation for a prestigious conference in Qatar has been nothing short of a transformative odyssey. This journey underscores the significance of passion, perseverance, and the boundless possibilities that arise when research resonates with a global audience. As I reflect on this journey, I am deeply grateful for the doors that have opened, the connections I've made, and the invaluable lessons I've learned.