The Only #ISTE2015 Post You Need to Read

I thought it would be a good time to send out a post on #ISTE2015 for all of the first time attendees out there. I've done others in years past, (Star Wars ISTE Guide, 10 Things I Hate About You ISTE 2011, ISTE 2012 Guide)There are plenty of great resources out there, but I wanted to share with all of you the tips that have worked for me over the past 5 events I have attended.

1. Wear comfortable shoes

You will be walking al lover the place every day. You will be walking to sessions and places to eat. You will be going up and down stairs and rushing to the bathroom. If you have a nice pair of shoes you want to show off during the night, back them in your bag and take them out for the dance party. Comfort is key as you rush from one session to the next.

2. Bring the power

No matter what you might think, you will need your charger at some point during the day. You will need to plug into an outlet and recharger your phone, tablet, laptop, etc. Do not be the awkward person asking to borrow another person's charger during a session. Have it with your and ready to plug in at the nearest outlet. 

3. Sitting in Sessions

Find the seat closest to an outlet so you can charge your devices while you are learning a think or two. 

4. Stay Hydrated

Lots and lots of water will be good for you as you move around all day. You might not feel it during the day, but it will hit hard when you decide to have a good time with your friends in the evening. Buy a water bottle and fill it up throughout the day. You need to stay hydrated if you are going to keep your brain going. 

5. Eat

Do not skip your meals during the day. Make the time to eat breakfast and have a nice lunch. Dinners are a time for friends to get together and hang out. Lunches are always hectic because sessions are running all the time. These might be more of a fast paced snack than a full meal. Make sure you save time to eat. 

6. Stop in the hallways

Make sure you take the time to stop and engage people outside of the sessions. These are the places where the best conversations can take place. Meet the people you have followed online all year face to face. Share a few laughs about stuff that has nothing to do with technology or education. Be funny, be silly, but most importantly, be you. 

7. Have a good time

Have a very good time at #ISTE2015. It is your chance to share with others and learn from others, but you should have a good time. Avoid the drama and just hangout with friends, attend a few sessions, visit the vendors, find me and say hello, and just be you. You will have a blast. 

8. Find +Kyle Pace (@KylePace) and give him a hug

Tell him Nick sent you.