Things to do when attending a meeting

(Beside listening to talks and posters)

Meet people.

• Go to their posters.
• Hang around the poster area in your field. This is where everyone in your field hangs out.
• Hang out with your supervisor. Get your supervisor to introduce you to people.

Visit local labs in your field. Often have open houses (with free beer!)

• The WEB is good source of names and addresses.
• The Neuroscience address book has an index in the back, listing neuroscientists by city. Use it to locate neuroscientists in your field. Phone them up and arrange a short visit during or after the meeting.

Think ahead to your next career step.

• If you are looking for labs for your next career step, go to their posters.
• Ask the graduate students and post doctoral fellow what things are like.
• Arrange to have coffee/dinner.

Plan to take a break or two.

• Rent a car and enjoy the sites.
• Plan what to see by getting a few travel brochures.

Avoid spending all of your time with people from back home.

• This may feel more comfortable, but you miss out on making new friends.

Remember the three reasons for going to a meeting: information, inspiration, & interaction.

• Make sure you get a bit of each.