After a long and eventful weekend, it’s a good feeling to be back with you all. I just returned from the annual PRSA/PRSSA conference in Indianapolis and I must say, it was everything and more.
Initially, I was a bit skeptical about the conference. Mainly because of the amount of money that went into it (it was extremely expensive folks!) Besides me having to get patted down twice by TSA (they can be a bit of a hassle,) the plane ride there wasn’t bad. After a stop in Detroit, I was finally in Indy an hour later.
This was my second time being in Indy, the first was for the National Conference on Race & Ethnicity (NCORE.) Like most cities I travel to, I notice that the individuals who reside in these cities are extremely friendly. I guess it seems like that because I am from New York City and NYC has a known reputation for being a “Grimey” city. Very few individuals are smiling and if people are overly welcoming, it is a cause for concern in NYC.
I enjoyed the conference because it was the first time I was in a room filled with PR-junkies. Besides my grad cohort at Newhouse, it is very rare for me to run into individuals who are passionate about PR and have a true understanding of its value within today’s society. From the networking, catching up with my mentors and the sessions, It’s not crazy for me to say that I was in PR-Heaven.
The highlights of the trip were Derreck Kayongo, bonding with my cohort and Steak & Shake. Kayongo gave an amazing speech on his story and the why behind his organization that donates unused soap to those in need.
As for my cohort, although everyone wasn’t there, it was great to finally get a chance to truly bond with the ones that were on the trip. With the intensity of the program, it makes it hard for us to come together and vibe with one another. Last but not least Steak & Shake. It is a fast-food restaurant that is very popular in the midwest that’s open 24 hours. For the times I was hungry and didn’t want to pay hotel price for food, Steak & Shake was a blessing.
Overall, it was a well-needed trip, I had a lot on my mind and I was in desperate need to get out of Syracuse for a bit.
In words of Bryson Tiller, I can now say,
“I’m Back and I’m Better” lol.
I had such a good experience at the conference too! I’m glad we all finally got to bond a bit, it was about time! Boston here we come!
Very insightful post. Derreck Kayongo is truly an inspirational figure in our society today. Glad you enjoyed the conference and gained so much!
That is one of the reasons I didn’t end up going to the conference – because of the price. Between that and traveling it was definitely an expensive trip but I’m happy it was worth it for you. I also never find myself surrounded by a lot of people who are PR junkies or people who even know what public relations is! It must have been nice to be surrounded by people who you finally don’t have to explain to what public relations is or what your job would entail.
I am glad you enjoyed the conference and had Steak & Shake. I spent four years in Iowa and often went to Steak & Shake. I didn’t know it is only open in Midwest.
I hate that I wasn’t able to go. Missed the speeches, missed the camaraderie… I wouldn’t been right there with you at Steak and Shake too.