Last week, I found out that I'm going to San Antonio to NECC '08. This was probably going to be the highlight of my summer, but my wife and I just booked an August trip to New York for a weekend to catch a show and a Yankee game before they tear down the house that Ruth built. I guess NECC now has competition for best summer trip. Anyway, as far as NECC is concerned, my flight is booked, accommodations set (at my cousin's house), all I need is a rental car - and tips from you.
Since this will be my first time attending, I'm looking for all the tips and advice I can get. If you've been to this conference before, what should I make sure I do? I'm not planning on attending any workshops, but are there any other "unofficial" things that need attention? I've heard of unconferences that will take place. How do I find out about those? I'll be adding my info the NECC wiki in the next day or two.
I read a recent blog about blog commenting and what kinds of posts get comments. There were several mentioned, but I'm hoping this entry gets plenty of action. The more advice the merrier. I certainly hoping to meet some of my fellow bloggers and twits (I think that's the correct term) during the conference. I met a few at WEMTA and it was very nice to be able to put a real person to the thoughts and ideas being shared.
If you've attended in the past, let me know your NECC experiences. If you're going for the first time like me, let me know that as well, perhaps we'll both experience something great.
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Hi Chad, Thanks for commenting over at my blog about commenting. :) There have been some very insightful comments and I'm planning a follow-up post that I think we can all learn from. As for NECC, I have never been to a national conference before so I am VERY excited! I am looking forward to it and I'm looking forward to meeting our TweetPeeps. There are a Twitter/NECC Wiki out there for us to put in our information. Take care!
I've attended several NECCs. My suggestion is to go through the online planner and pick several sessions that interest you, including back ups in case the room is filled for your first choice. If you can figure out the conference layout, you can see whether you should try to run from one side of the conference center to the other in time. Plan a lot of time to walk the exhibit hall, attend the playgrounds and posters or just have time to chat with others ( where some of the best networking happens). Wear comfortable shoes. You won't be able to do it all - but you'll love the experiences you do fit in.
Lori
I'd venture that the sessions I went to weren't nearly as interesting or important as the people I've met. Watch the audience as much as the speakers. Hit the exhibit hall early - every year you seem to win something (big things). Pack light to bring some of it home to kids, coworkers, etc. You will NOT get to do everything you want. But enjoy what you do!
Hi Chad. It is very nice to have a laptop with you in every session -- so, make sure you bring that. Be prepared for information overload. You should definitely give yourself some time to reflect on and play with everything when you get back home. Maybe our paths will cross. We will have to figure out where the good night spots will be --- to network and relax.
@lee Thanks - I'm looking forward to meeting people as well!
@mrs.a - I have already come to the conclusion that I won't be able to do it all, good advice.
@Dan - Win something? That would be an added bonus on top of meeting people and learning stuff.
@g.hartman - I'm going to take you up on the night time activities! I'm really looking forward to the whole experience.
Hi, Chad,
Attending multiple CUEs in Palm Springs I thought I was ready for NECC but, it's HUGE! The San Diego event two summers ago was fantastic and I understand why it is almost a week long event. There is so much to see, hear and do with people to meet and vendors to see and time to learn, explore, discover and learn. Save time to enjoy the Student Showcase as they have the best of the best. Such great work. Wishing I could attend, I wish you a wonderful week. Enjoy!