How to Survive ICDC

By: Desiree Tolentino, Vice President of Membership
Date: April 26th, 2012

By Desiree Tolentino, Vice President of Membership

It’s almost here! The International Career and Development Conference is definitely going to be a blast! You will have the chance to meet other students from all 50 states and nine other countries, trade pins and spirit items, and having a great time touring around a new environment. Although you are going to have lots of fun networking, competing, and going through workshops, take some time to consider looking at this informational list of things that you should keep in mind before you pack and get ready to head out for Salt Lake City. By implementing these few tips and pieces of advice, it would help make for a smoother and worry-free trip for this year’s international conference.

What time is it? DECA time!

Remember to always keep track of the time when you’re at the conference. Whether you are going to Opening Session, a competitive event, or a
workshop, make sure to be sure to be at least 15 minutes early to the area you need to be.  Punctuality is key to prevent the stress of rushing and will also give you extra time to collect yourself before it’s show time.

Wear your name and state with pride!

Keep you name badge and your state pins with you at all times. It will give you even more opportunities to socialize and expand your network  with other states wherever you may be! At Opening Session, make sure to bring along your spirit items so that you can collect and trade with other states and countries. However, be sure to not lose your name badge or conference wristband! It will cause more trouble and headache for you (and your advisor) in the long run.
Where’s Dr. Scholl’s when you need him?

Bring comfortable shoes whether you are a boy or a girl. You will learn soon enough that walking to and from each location will not be a stroll
in the park. Girls, wearing your professional pair of pumps can sometimes become a pain when you’re running around the convention center. Solution? Carry around fast, foldable flats that you can stick in your purse for an easy transition before your feet start to blister. Guys, be sure to break in your dress shoes before wearing them because you can get blisters too! (Investing in foot pads, gels, or petals will also provide a good amount of comfort for your feet). Males and females both should keep in mind that even though we do want to look our very best, we want to make sure we don’t severely injure ourselves and cause more pain than we need.

Beat your boredom!

There will be many times in your schedule where you will have a great amount of time to walk around and look around the exhibit hall. Be sure to go and check out the different booths and vendors that will be there at the convention center. (Who doesn’t like picking up free stuff)? There is tons of information in store for you, but you will never know unless you take the time and check it out!