For those who are taking off for D.C., we put together tips for a great seminar. 

What to Wear?

• Business casual is what most will be wearing. Great rule of thumb - be comfortable and don’t wear anything you wouldn’t wear in front of your superintendent.
• Wear layers - outside will be hot and humid, while the hotel conference rooms can be very cold.
• Wear comfortable shoes - you will get your steps!
• New this year - the Sunday night Opening Gala Reception will be more formal - anything from business casual to black tie (many of our board will be dressing up!).

What to Bring?

• Bring a water bottle (and flavoring/electrolytes if that’s your style) to stay hydrated.
• Bring breakfast or snack bars. Light breakfast options are provided, but may be hard to wrangle in the a.m. with so many people.
• Bring an open mindset - not every session will be directly applicable. Consider things that can be modified for your work. Also, NSPRA is very district heavy - COEs have to be creative about how to apply to their roles.

Before the Seminar

• Download the NSPRA app so you get the last-minute changes.
• Make sure you are on the CalSPRA WhatsApp group.
• Plan out sessions ahead of time using the NSPRA app. Divide and conquer sessions with others on your team. You might be able to access the pre-recordings for some sessions in the app to help you decide.
• Don’t forget to check out the sessions and events where you will find other CalSPRA members.

During the Seminar

• Networking - going to the smaller opportunities can feel less intimidating. Don’t hesitate to approach groups at these events - PR people are very friendly, especially those from California!
• When you get your room key, place it in your name tag. Keep both of them with you so your key is handy (and doesn't get demagnetized in your wallet) and you get into all NSPRA events. You cannot attend any NSPRA event without your name tag.
• Go to the “How to Make the Most of Your First NSPRA Seminar” on Sunday at 2:45 p.m. in the Columbia Ballroom.
• Attend the Southwest Region Meet-up led by our very own Jennifer Dericco, VP of the Southwest Region, on Sunday at 4 p.m.
• Plan lunches ahead - they are not provided unless you signed up in advance for a boxed lunch, and area restaurants will be packed. 
• Attend the CalSPRA Welcome Lunch event at Exiles. You can still register! 
• Get to sessions early, or you may not have a seat.
• If a session is not for you, don’t be afraid to leave and find something that is.
• Pace yourself. There is a lot to choose from, do what feels right for you, and take care of yourself.

After the Seminar

• Debrief with your supervisor or leadership team. Tell them about the highlights and let them know about improvements you will make this coming year, in the next few years, and things you’ve added to your wish list. This will help solidify the investment in your development and how it benefits students!