Attendance American Academy of Religion Annual Conference 2023, San Antonio, Texas, USA

Antragstellender: Ihsan Altintas
Fachbereich, Studienrichtung: FB 01, Doctorate Religious Studies

With the financial support of the Santander Mobility Fund, I had the privilege of attending the prestigious American Academy of Religion Annual Conference 2023, held from November 18 to 21 in San Antonio, Texas, USA. During this remarkable experience, I seized the opportunity to present a chapter from my PhD project, dedicated to comparing attitudes toward religious diversity in Hinduism and Islam. Engaging with esteemed community, I had the pleasure of meeting distinguished academics and joined the network of researchers who are in the field of comparative religious studies.

The invaluable feedback on my chapter and the methodology of comparison, received from professors and research fellows with diverse backgrounds, provided me with a multifaceted perspective on the same issue. This experience has undeniably broadened my horizons, making me feel more empowered to delve deeper into my project. Beyond the formal presentations, the informal discussions, and interactions with scholars from various corners of the world added an extra layer of depth to my academic journey. Conversations not only stayed limited to the subject of my research but also encompassed broader themes of comparative religious studies. This immersive atmosphere allowed me to glean insights not only from established academics but also from emerging voices in the field, enriching my understanding and inspiring new directions for my ongoing project. The connections forged during the conference continue to be a source of inspiration, prompting me to cultivate a more nuanced and interconnected approach to my research.

As I reflect on this transformative experience, I am profoundly grateful for the Santander Mobility Fund's support which encourages students to broaden their horizons and contribute to science.