Thriving at AAR/SBL: Tips from the HTI Community
Your first AAR-SBL? Seasoned veteran? Either way, you need this. HTI scholars share their wisdom—from conquering imposter syndrome to surviving the conference marathon with grace (and maybe caffeine).
6 min read
Each year, HTI scholars, mentors, and friends navigate the intensity of the AAR-SBL annual meetings—days filled with sessions, networking, receptions, and countless opportunities. It can be overwhelming, especially for first-timers, but the HTI community has gathered its best wisdom to help you not just survive, but thrive. From practical survival tips to encouragement for combating imposter syndrome, this guide offers real advice, humor, and solidarity from those who have walked these halls before. Here is what they wish they had known.
💭 One Thing I Wish Someone Had Told Me
Review the AAR/SBL annual meeting book and prepare your agenda before arriving.
"Book a hotel closer to the venue—it will make your life easier."
— Fernando Berwig Silva, Southern Methodist University
"The most important thing is not to go to as many papers as possible (you can always email the presenter for their paper). Balance papers with networking and building friendships with fellow scholars."
— M. Daniel Carroll R., Wheaton College Graduate School
"I struggle with lectures and 'paper reading' types of panels. It doesn't fit my learning style... I wish someone had told me it was ok if the lecture or 'paper panel' style was not how I learned best. It didn't make me less of a scholar."
— Jorge Juan Rodríguez V, Hispanic Scholars Program
"It's okay to be a little late to a panel if you're networking with someone. (Exception: Don't be late if you're in the panel!!) Treasure getting to know new colleagues and catching up with old friends."
— Leopoldo Sánchez, Concordia Seminary
🎯 My #1 Survival Tip
"Take breaks."
— Samantha Pellón Hernández, Fordham University
"Bring comfortable shoes—you'll be doing LOTS of walking."
— Fernando Berwig Silva, Southern Methodist University
"Coffee and naps are your best friends. The conference can be overwhelming—don't try to do everything. Prioritize rest."
— Jorge Juan Rodríguez V, Hispanic Scholars Program
🤝 How to Network Without the Awkwardness
"Be yourself, even when networking. People appreciate authenticity more than perfect small talk."
— Samantha Pellón Hernández, Fordham University
"Don't just talk to people you already know—expand your circle by introducing yourself to at least two new people each day."
— Jorge Juan Rodríguez V, Hispanic Scholars Program
"Ask people about their favorite books, research projects, or even where they're from. Personal questions lead to real connections."
— Leopoldo Sánchez, Concordia Seminary
"Reach out to scholars you want to meet before the AAR/SBL and ask them if they are available for coffee."
— Joanne Rodriguez, HTI
👥 Where to Find Your HTI People
"HTI's annual reception is hands down the best part of AAR-SBL. It's where you'll find your academic family."
— Multiple HTI Scholars
"Look for other HTI scholars at sessions related to Latinx theology, immigration, and social justice—we tend to cluster around these topics."
— Jorge Juan Rodríguez V, Hispanic Scholars Program
💪 Beating Imposter Syndrome
"You belong here. Your voice, your research, your perspective — they all matter."
— Samantha Pellón Hernández, Fordham University
"Remember: Everyone at the conference—even the 'big names'—started exactly where you are now."
— M. Daniel Carroll R., Denver Seminary
"Your presence at AAR-SBL is not a fluke. You earned your place at the table."
— Leopoldo Sánchez, Concordia Seminary
"Believe and act like you belong here before arriving. Respond to calls for papers, become part of a unit by serving on their board, etc.…"
— Joanne Rodriguez, HTI
"Feeling overwhelmed at AAR/SBL it is normal! It is the largest conference of the year, and it is also in a different city every year. Keep this perspective and breath, all is well!"
— Joanne Rodriguez, HTI
📚 Making Work Sustainable
"Seek feedback early and often—it makes the writing process so much easier."
— João Chaves, Baylor University
"Learn to say no to opportunities that don't align with your goals. Protect your time and energy."
— João Chaves, Baylor University
"Go to support sessions to advance and network."
— Joanne Rodriguez, HTI
📖 Life Saving Tip
"One time I had an allergic reaction to something I ate at an AAR conference dinner. Lesson learned: Always carry Benadryl, and don't be shy about asking what's in the food!"
— M. Daniel Carroll R, Denver Seminary
Join Us at HTI's Annual Reception
Now that you have this survival guide in hand, take the next step: join HTI at its annual AAR-SBL reception on Saturday night at 8pm. It's where the advice you have just read comes to life:
- ▸ Connect with HTI scholars, mentors, and advocates from across the country
- ▸ Celebrate recent achievements—doctoral defenses, promotions, awards, and publications
- ▸ Practice those networking strategies in a welcoming, supportive environment
- ▸ Find your community and build connections that last beyond the conference
HTI Annual Reception Details
📍 Location: Marriott Copley Place, Grand Ballroom, Salon F
📅 Date: Saturday, November 22
🕗 Time: 8:00–10:00 PM (EST)
Stay Connected
Found this survival guide helpful? Subscribe to HTI's newsletter and social media for more resources, updates, and opportunities, and remain connected with the HTI community.
Have your own AAR-SBL survival tip to share? We would love to hear it! Email HTI at hti@ptsem.edu with your best advice, and we may feature it in future editions of this guide.
Support HTI Scholars at AAR-SBL
Your support helps HTI scholars attend AAR-SBL, present their research, and build the networks that advance their careers. Make conferences like this accessible for the next generation of Latine scholars.
Continue Exploring HTI's Impact
Latinas in Leadership
Discover how HTI's leadership program is building a "systerhood" of Latina leaders transforming theological education.
Read More →New HTI Doctors
Celebrate four HTI scholars who successfully defended their dissertations this quarter—meet our newest doctors!
Meet the Doctors →