In March 2021 I moderated a panel discussion for the New England Entomological Society's biannual meeting. During that discussion the panelists (Tea Kesting-Handley, Sallqa-Tuwa Bondocgawa Mafla-Mills, Sebastian Echeverri, Megan Wilson and Margarita Lopez-Uribe) each spoke about their key to being successful in entomology. It is important to note that this panel was a diverse group of people, from various cultures and various stages in their academic careers. I have summarized their insightful comments in the narrative below.

(1) Have the motivation to go against all nay-sayers. Even if everyone around you is extremely supportive, science/grad school/the world will defeat you time and time again. Only go into academics if there is an undying flame inside you that says you need to do that. (2) Find a mentor that you identify with, if they haven't found you. The best mentors will see potential in your and work to help you flourish. (3) Take opportunities to participate in meaningful real-world experiences. These can advance your academic horizons, inspire you, and provide new opportunities. (4) Be in the right place at the right time, and be lucky. Luck is a huge factor. This doesn't mean it's out of your control, it just means you need to keep trying until you get a lucky break. (5) When you get lucky, take credit for your success. Being proud does NOT make you conceited. Don't succumb to imposter syndrome and think that you don't deserve your successes. (6) Go where there is funding (for how to get funding, see point 4). (7) Say yes to new opportunities. Every new thing you do will open a new door for you. (8) Make the path that is right for you, which often will not be the path your peers are being driven down. (9) Connect to your community. There are people who you can work with and be friends with in your field. Find them and connect.