Tips for Attending AACTE’s Annual Meeting
Before we all head to Atlanta for AACTE’s 67th Annual Meeting, I asked a few past attendees to share tips for what to do at the event. Here’s some useful guidance from Jennifer Waddell, associate director of the Institute for Urban Education at the University of Missouri-Kansas City.
1. Be ready to network. The Annual Meeting is a great avenue for connecting with colleagues, new and former, from around the country. Arrive to sessions early and attend the receptions; you won’t be disappointed!
2. Differentiate your experiences. Sessions at the Annual Meeting vary, with presentations from well-known as well as upcoming scholars in the field. To get the most out of your experience, attend sessions in a variety of formats. The general sessions and major forums are great for hearing about current trends, while the symposiums, paper sessions, and roundtables offer more intimate settings for in-depth conversations.
3. The exhibit hall is not just about exhibits. The exhibit hall (Conference Community Center) is another great avenue for connecting with colleagues and networking. There are opportunities for informal conversation, learning about the latest in educational resources, and even an occasional cup of coffee or other refreshment. Be sure to stop by!
4. Be ready to have fun. One of my favorite things about the Annual Meeting is the positive energy and enthusiasm that abounds from all corners of the meeting. Sessions, receptions, and the restaurants are full of colleagues who are excited about the work and ready for the challenges that lie ahead. This is not a conference in which you attend a few sessions and then hibernate in your room. The more you are “out and about,” the more meaning you will gain from the experience. Be sure to arrive well-rested and ready to be impressed!
Still need to register? Don’t delay—discounted registration closes February 2. Register today!
To learn more about the 2015 Annual Meeting, to be held February 27-March 1, visit aacte.org and follow us on Twitter at #AACTE15.
Tags: Annual Meeting, events
