Part Three: The Three Things that MADE the ASCA12 Conference

It may be hard to justify going to another state to spend money on a flight, a hotel room, food, and a conference ticket- especially in times like these. But let me tell you this, other than these three things I am about to list, there is another payoff... PASSION. If you are feeling burnt out, exhausted, disenfranchised, unimportant, or any other burdening feeling, a conference such as this is a mandatory prescription.

You will leave feeling a sense of belonging, understanding, excitement, hope, and a.. dare I say it... "Let's get this next school year on the road!" statement rolling around in your head.

If this in anyway has not convinced you, let me illustrate some other benefits.

1. Networking

Literally, it was impossible to avoid meeting school counselors from all over the country. There were counselors in the elevator, the bathroom, in restraunts. There were counselors everywhere! To me, the benefit of networking is the exchange of ideas and edification. Especially in my case where I am a lone counselor, knowing I have friends and colleagues I can go to is a great relief.

Thanks to Danielle Schultz and Erin Mason, who put the whole thing together, I was also able to connect with various twitter pals at the #SCCHAT Tweet Up. It was so cool meeting people who I had extensive knowledge of thier digital face, but not thier real face.

This is where things get good for you! Anyone can be a part of the #scchat on twitter. You can get started on networking and plug into an extensive PLC online.

2. Speakers and Sessions 


                                           

                                                        Tech Smackdown



Gosh, there were so many speakers and great sessions with a lot of awesome ideas. But, I can't help but brag about two of my absolute favorites. First, there was the Tech Smackdown presented by Danielle Schultz, Erin Mason, Russ Sabella, Andrea Burston, and Julia V. Taylor. It was an engaging format and chockfull of information! Again, I have got some good news for you... Even if you couldn't be there with us, you can find the comprehensive notes HERE.

The other presentor I loved was Jamie Vollmer.

Tip: Always be sure to stay until the very end of a conference.

Jamie Vollmer talked about education reform in such an inovative, hilarious, and understadning way. In no way can I even try to explain this guy, just check him out in this clip.... (starting at 2:01)

3. SWAG

I am not going to lie. I get a little too much like a kid in a candy shop when it comes to free stuff. Stress balls, pens, stickers, whatever it may be- I love it! I also had some great conversations with people about their products or careers (and brought some great information back to share with my students). The coolest part of all of it was seeing so many people who saw the value in school counselors.

Also, I loved seeing the Central Intelligence Agency there! Personal note: I was actually a Politcal Science major for the first two years of college and was seriously intent on applying for the CIA's internship program. Moments, life, and various people that came into my life directed me to change my mind. Go figure.