Gather and share global perspectives at several ATS 2015 events. (Photo: Steve Schneider)

With nearly half of all ATS International Conference attendees coming from outside the U.S., this gathering truly represents the international perspective. The conference provides a venue to gain knowledge about research best practices, collaborate with experts, seek guidance from mentors, and develop leadership skills. This year, international participants can gather and share global perspectives in the International Participants Center and the Global Community. And while you’re in the Exhibit Hall, stop by the British Meeting Point at Booth 921, where you can enjoy a warm and uniquely British welcome. The British Meeting Point is hosted by the British Thoracic Society and the UK respiratory community. Enjoy tea and biscuits, relax, and meet colleagues and friends.

International Participants Center

Today to Tuesday
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
F Lobby (Street Level) Colorado Convention Center

The International Participants Center is designed to enhance the conference experience for participants from beyond North America as well as provide opportunities for all participants to become more knowledgeable about ATS international activities. The center also provides a place to meet with colleagues, network, or just relax during your time at ATS 2015.

“Attending the International Conference is both exciting and overwhelming, especially to those from outside of the U.S. who are taking in all of the educational content as well a new culture,” says Erlina Burhan, MD, of the Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine at the University of Indonesia-Persahabatan Hospital in Jakarta and an ATS Methods in Epidemiologic, Clinical, and Operations Research country leader for Indonesia. “This can be disorienting, but the International Participants Center is a welcoming place that helps international attendees feel grounded.” 

This year, all attendees are invited to join the African Interest Group during the initial meeting in the center from noon to 1:30 p.m. Monday. The African Interest Group, sponsored by the ATS International Health Committee, brings together clinicians and scientists from Africa or with an interest in Africa for the aim of raising the profile of research in Africa, and also to address common interests that will benefit respiratory, critical care, and sleep patients. The group’s goals and objectives will be discussed, and lunch will be served.

Then from 4:15 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, the center will host a reception for international participants attending the ATS 2015 International Conference and the International Trainee/MECOR Scholarship Awardees. All international participants, as well as current and former International Trainee/MECOR award recipients and their colleagues are welcome to attend. 

While at the ATS International Participants Center, attendees may visit with the ATS International Activities staff from the Washington Office, or make use of the center amenities including computer stations to access email and the Internet, as well as complimentary snacks, coffee, and soda.

Global Community

Today and Monday
10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tuesday
10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
F Lobby (Street Level) Colorado Convention Center

Visit the Global Community to discover what other thoracic and respiratory societies are achieving. Network with representatives from pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine societies from around the world. Exchange information and ideas about programming and activities and explore opportunities to advance science that lead to improved care.

In addition to several organizations hosting booths, the Australian and New Zealand Society of Respiratory Science Ltd. will display a prominent poster.