Every year (that’s three years running), ASTD’s International Conference & Exposition is the one event I can’t miss. It’s an awesome opportunity to learn about emerging trends, meet new people, and enjoy a few days away from the office. I’m especially excited to attend this year’s conference, as ASTD recently launched a community specifically for L&D professionals under the age of 30. From what I gather, the launch of the community has spurred a lot of interest in my peers, and as a result, we may turn up in record numbers for the conference.

In light of having so many first-time attendees, and with just a month before the conference, I would like to share the top five things that I’m looking forward to this year.

Here they are, in no particular order:

1. Access to L&D Leadership/Networking

I’ve met some really great people at past conferences. From former ASTD board members to current chapter leaders, it’s been amazing to see how warm and friendly experienced professionals are and how interested they are in sharing their experiences with us newbies. Just striking up a conversation in the exhibit hall or before a session can result in years of mentorship opportunities to come!

1. SWAG!

Who doesn’t love swag? When it comes to the ASTD conference, the vendors pull out all the stops. If you’ve just started in the profession and you’re trying to establish yourself, talking with vendors is a great way to hear about cutting edge technology and trends in the field. Moreover, if you’ve just started in the profession and you’re looking to furnish your first real cubicle, there are enough supplies in the exhibit hall to last you through your promotion to an office. 

1. Great Keynote Speakers

I don’t know about you, but if I could build even 10 percent of the empire that Arianna Huffington has built, I’d consider myself successful. And a great way for me to learn about what makes her effective is to heed her advice. I’m so happy to know that I’ll have a front row seat to her wisdom when she presents as this year’s opening keynote speaker. Rounded off with Gen. Stan McChrystal and the Katalyst, Kevin Carroll, this year ASTD has a keynote line-up to be reckoned with. 

1. Presenting for the Second Year 

Last year, I had the privilege of being honored as an ASTD One to Watch and presenting a session entitled, “The Curious Case of Workforce Millennials.” This year, I was asked to moderate a panel about higher education and how an advanced degree can help you differentiate yourself. I am also serving as a guest speaker for the young professionals’ information session. As a trainer, it’s always very humbling to get up in front of a room of people and share some of what you’ve learned. It’s even more exciting to have that experience in front of your peers, especially of both profession and age.

1. FREE BOWLING!

Enough said.

If you can’t tell, I’m totally ready to pack my bags and head to Washington, D.C., immediately. The only thing keeping my excitement at bay is the fact that between now and the conference, I have to turn in my dissertation proposal for approval. Nevertheless, I am eager to make new memories at this year’s conference, especially since for the first time, many of those memories will be made with other young professionals.

Most importantly, the ASTD International Conference & Exposition is my one opportunity each year to spend time with other L&D professionals from around the globe. And what a better way to spend four days than doing exactly that? Can’t beat it with a stick!

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