Llion Carbis, PhD student at Cardiff University's School of Journalism, Communication and Culture, reflects on his experiences presenting at the Coleg Cymraeg Research Conference and WISERD Conference at Bangor University.
Few experiences cover Wales' infrastructure deficit better than spending over nine hours in two days travelling on trains. For an overwhelming majority of people, Summer signifies the end of the academic year, sunshine and a chance to rest over a pint or BBQ. But, for those involved in academic circles, Summer signifies an important period in the calendar – conferences!
As a PhD student of the Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol, I was fortunate to be invited to present at the WISERD conference at Bangor University and the Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol annual research conference at the National Library of Wales in Aberystwyth.
I contributed to a symposium on politics and Covid-19 at Bangor University, based on my work with Professor Stephen Cushion looking at how devolution is corresponded to by the British media in the early months of the pandemic. It was valuable experience to present among respected academics and those who have undertaken a raft of key research throughout their careers. It was a great insight into the process of presenting and explaining the significance of my research, as well as equipping me with valuable experience as an aspiring lecturer.
After my first ever visit to Bangor – I'm well aware that I don't help revising the stereotype of a cardiff-bred – it was time to return to Aberystwyth for the first time in over a decade for the Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol Research Conference. I spent several happy (and wet) Summers in Ceredigion during my childhood and was quite shocked at the memories that came flooding back to me when I arrived at Aberystwyth train station. Unfortunately, what I forgot was how challenging it was to walk up the hill to get to the National Library, especially with a drum bag on my shoulder and the rain falling. In recent years, the revival of the Welsh language - particularly among the younger generations - has attributed to the musical scene, especially with so many new bands, who are performing brilliantly live. But what struck me in Aberystwyth was hearing first-hand how rich and varied academic work was through the medium of Welsh.
As the final presenter of the day, it was a pleasure to sit back and listen to the various vital researches being conducted or presented through the medium of Welsh. I must admit, as someone who sticks tightly to the humanities, I didn't understand many aspects of the scientific presentations – but all fairness to the presenters for explaining complex concepts and processes in such an understandable and accessible way.
I had so much fun presenting my research on the development of YesCymru and the growing growth of Welsh independence based on my MA dissertation. I didn't expect one of the co-founders of the movement to be present during the presentation, but it did add to the fun and humor of the presentation. In fact, I enjoyed the day so much, I'm already looking forward to next year's Coleg Cymraeg's research conference – with hope that the sun will shine!