Dress Appropriately and Comfortably
From my observations last year, the dress code leaned casual to business casual. Conventions usually involve a lot of walking and standing so comfortable shoes are a great option. Some of the convention rooms can get very cold so bring layers to ensure comfort.
Stay Hydrated, Snack Smart, and Take Breaks
There are many food options around the convention center and last year there were food trucks for a quick bite. If you have a busy day that consists of attending as many workshops as possible, spending a lot of time in the vendor hall to get all the free goodies, and meeting up with some colleagues, you might benefit from having snacks on hand. Last year I packed snacks for each day and brought a water bottle. Sitting through workshops and networking can be tiring after a while therefore having snacks and water easily available to me helped tremendously. Since last year was my first convention, I was super excited to attend as many workshops as I could. But once the third day rolled around, I skipped out on some workshops just so I could have longer breaks. As an introvert, I found the personal alone time very beneficial and found myself towards the end of the convention closing my eyes on a couch in the convention center for 30 minutes to recharge. It’s important to strike a balance between making the most of the convention and taking care of your well-being to fully enjoy the experience!
Networking
My favorite part of the convention last year was networking with other histology professionals. Meeting people from different areas of histology and different states (and even different countries!) brings a wealth of diverse experiences and perspectives to the table. I had numerous conversations that offered insights into different approaches to common challenges, different laboratory setups, and varying protocols. I found the IHC roundtable talk very educational as I was sitting at a table with people that work in a clinical setting whereas I am in research. We were able to reflect on the similarities and differences between clinical and research immunohistochemistry. Networking with people from different areas can open up career and education opportunities you might have not considered. Attending professional conventions and networking at them is essential to career growth. The career growth gained from the convention is worth the time and effort!
Tips for Networking
If this is your first NSH Convention, attend the First-Time Attendee Reception! I made connections with a few individuals through this event. When I signed up for the convention, I realized I only had a few other individuals from my institution attending but did not know anyone else attending. The first-time attendee reception helped me make connections early on during the convention and helped me warm up my networking skills. The treats and game at the first-time attendee reception were also very enjoyable!
Last year, I did a lot of my networking at breakfast. I tried to get to breakfast around the start time and each day I sat at a table with different people I had not met yet. Networking during breakfast helped me network throughout the day. For example, I met five to six new people every morning. After we made introductions and had casual conversations, we typically discussed the workshops we planned to attend that day. If someone else planned to attend the same workshop as me, I tried to sit near them during the workshop or I gave them a wave before or after the workshop. Occasionally, the individuals I met would connect me with others in their circle. As the convention concluded, my network had significantly expanded. I discovered that typing down notes on my phone about the individuals I met and their workplaces was highly advantageous. This helped me remember who I met, making it easier for me to connect with them on LinkedIn. Again, as an introvert, I recognize the initial challenges of networking. Embrace networking with openness and prepare questions in advance such as "What is your name, where are you from, what kind of lab do you work in, how many NSH conventions have you attended?" Remember, these icebreakers can help initiate conversations and create meaningful connections during the event.
Reflect and Apply What You Have Learned
As the convention ends and you head back to your regular work routine, take time to reflect on the valuable insights, new techniques, and innovative ideas you have gained. Think about how you can apply this new information to improve your daily work and professional development. Whether it’s implementing a new protocol, sharing new knowledge with your team, or exploring new technology for your lab. The true value of the convention lies in the practical application of what you have learned.
Have Fun!
Networking events and social gatherings such as the Welcome Reception and NSH Region Reception provide opportunities to relax, have fun, and form personal connections with people who share your professional interests. These personal connections can lead to meaningful friendships and a sense of belonging to a larger histology community.
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