The AISES National Conference in Spokane, Wash., is just a month away! It’s sure to be an exciting and impactful event as thousands of Indigenous STEM students and professionals from across the United States and Canada gather from Oct. 19–21 for three days filled with learning, networking, and celebrating their culture. There’s a lot to take in, and it can be overwhelming, so here are some tips to help you make the most of your time at the conference.
Plan Ahead
Getting a grasp on how you want to fill your days at the conference before you arrive will be well worth your time. Are there specific speakers you’d like to hear? Are there networking opportunities you don’t want to miss? Is there anything happening in the host city of Spokane, Wash., for which you’d like to set aside time and a portion of your budget? Considering all of these things ahead of time will help reduce your anxiety once on site and make for an organized and productive conference experience.
Ask Who’s Going
Before leaving for Spokane, ask around and find out who else is going — both people you already know and those you’re interested in getting to know. Check with other students at your school and in your network as well as your professors, and don’t forget to review the list of scheduled speakers. To increase your chances of actually catching up with particular people in person, be sure to send a quick email asking if they can meet for coffee or attend a session with you.
Write It Down
The AISES National Conference provides loads of great information, contacts, and opportunities. In fact, you’ll likely gather more information than you can remember without some help, so remember to take notes. Whether it’s snapping photos of PowerPoint slides or jotting names, numbers, and facts in a notebook, be sure you have your favorite tools at the ready to record any pertinent information you learn, connections you make, and action items to follow up on when you get home.
Network, Network, Network
It can’t be overstated: a key component of the AISES National Conference is networking. This can be challenging, especially when it involves approaching individuals you don’t know or experts in a particular field. Take a deep breath and put yourself out there. Don’t forget: they are at the conference because they share the same interests. They’re passionate about sharing their knowledge, so don’t be afraid to speak up. Networking is also a great way to learn about opportunities, such as internships and potential employers. Take your time at the Career Fair and learn about the many companies that are looking for students like you to move into roles at their organizations. Many AISES members credit past conferences for connecting them with people they wouldn’t have met otherwise. These connections resulted in everything from internships to scholarships, so don’t give up the chance to connect with others.
Don’t Let the Conference End
While the in-person events of the 2023 AISES National Conference may conclude on October 21, the power of the conference goes on. Keep in touch with the people you meet in Spokane, and stay connected with AISES through your chapter. And don’t forget to go back to those notes you took — you’ll likely see that you amassed a treasure trove of valuable information.
The AISES National Conference is an amazing opportunity to connect with like-minded students, professionals, and leaders in the STEM fields. Attending a large conference can be intimidating, but rest assured that you’ll be entering a welcoming environment. The AISES team can’t wait to see you in Spokane. If you haven’t already registered, you can do so here.
ON TOPIC
Part of the excitement of attending the AISES National Conference is exploring a new city. While the conference agenda provides plenty to keep you busy, do make some time to take in some sites.
A short walk from the convention center is Riverfront Park and the beautiful Spokane Falls. The park is the site of the 1974 World’s Fair and every September it is home to the Gathering at the Falls Powwow. While at the park, hop aboard the Numerica SkyRide, a 15-minute cable ride that offers the best views of the falls and surrounding areas.
If you’re more of a “feet on the ground” person, take a trek along the 40-mile, pedestrian Centennial Trail, which happens to pass right by the Spokane Convention Center. A walk on this designated National Recreation Trail will bring you to various spots with river views from many angles.
If you’d prefer to stay indoors, check out some of Spokane’s museums. The Smithsonian-affiliated Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture, located in the Browne’s Addition neighborhood, offers exhibits focused on art and regional history, including the Indigenous peoples. Or stick to the STEM theme and visit the Mobius Science Center, which offers exhibits across STEM disciplines. And back at the convention center, be sure to visit the artisan market, where you can find beautiful Native-made jewelry, ribbon skirts, beadwork, and more. You won't be disappointed!
