Suzie Key Tima

This post is going to be relatively short and quite different from the other ones on my blog.

I went to the ASCE International Conference this past month. Unfortunately, I couldn’t afford to stay the whole time, so I did a Sunday-only registration. In this post, I am sharing what my experience was like, what I learned, and some reasons why I think you should consider going to a professional conference too.

A Rocky Start

As soon as I arrived at the conference, I knew it was going to be an interesting day. In the first few minutes, I managed to break a poster leg that had to be replaced. Not exactly the most confidence-boosting start, but I took it as a sign to relax, be more present, and not take myself too seriously.

Overcoming Social Anxiety

As someone who’s shy and socially anxious, I was a bit nervous about attending a conference where I didn’t know anyone. I ended up eating breakfast by myself, which wasn’t the most enjoyable experience. During the first break, I found myself hiding out in the bathroom, trying to recharge before facing the crowds again. I think it’s important to pause sometimes. These conferences can be very fast paced with lots of simulation and if you need a break, take it.

A Turning Point

But then something unexpected happened. During lunch, I noticed someone struggling to find a seat, so I pointed to a seat next to me that was open. We struck up a conversation, and it turned out to be one of the highlights of my day. We talked about our work and the projects we were working on.

Meeting New People and Learning New Things

As the day went on, I met a few more people, including the president of ASCE, which was awesome. I attended sessions on electric vehicles (EVs) and new transportation technologies, which sparked a new interest in transportation planning. I was fascinated by the discussions on transportation equity and the history behind some of the projects. These topics not only broadened my knowledge but also gave me inspiration for my doctorate thesis.

Why You Should Attend a Professional Conference

Despite my initial nerves and mishaps, I’m so glad I attended the ASCE Conference. Here are a few reasons why I think you should consider attending a professional conference too:

• Networking opportunities:
  You never know who you’ll meet and what connections you’ll make.
  
• Learning and growth:
  Conferences offer a wealth of knowledge and insights from industry experts.
  
• Inspiration and motivation:
  Hearing about others’ experiences and achievements can spark new ideas and enthusiasm for your own work.
  
• Stepping out of your comfort zone:
  Attending a conference can help you overcome social anxiety and build confidence in a professional setting.

My experience at the ASCE Conference was a valuable reminder that even when things don’t go as planned, you can still have a positive and enriching experience. I hope this post encourages you to take the leap and attend a professional conference in your field. You never know what connections you’ll make, what you’ll learn, or how it might inspire your future work.

Have you been to a professional conference? Please share your experience in the comments.