Why you should submit – For the experience!

For some people, just reading that top line will be enough for them to submit a proposal for the 6th New Librarians Symposium. I can tell you now I’m not one of those people. And I presented at last year’s New Librarians’ Symposium in Perth. If you’re a student or new graduate reading this, please read on. It may be the boost (or convincing) you need. Chances are you’re wondering “Can my idea really be accepted….?” Well, I’m here to tell you why you should submit.

First, let me tell you a story. I was in the same position in December 2010. Presenting wasn’t in my immediate plans. I thought I had nothing to say. Who would listen to me? But I had an idea and wondered, “How can I share this?” With some encouragement, okay it was more like a boot in the rear end, I submitted. I was stoked I even put together an abstract.

You only have to start, take the first step and the rest will follow.

Being a first-time presenter at an event like the New Librarians’ Symposium is like having training wheels on a bike as well as having a cheer squad behind you. The people who organise and attend the event create a buzzing atmosphere that only makes you want to jump onto that stage and give them your all. Such support and the connections you make in the friendliest of spaces on the national conference circuit are priceless and will probably become the most important to you during the course of your career.

Of course I was nervous, to be honest there’s not much that will change that…..did I look nervous?

(http://www.flickr.com/photos/mpfl/6191406295/in/pool-nls5)

Sure, I screwed up in the first few minutes when I had the wrong slide up on the screen. S*** happens. I laughed it off and kept going. And guess what? I wasn’t ready to come off the stage by the time I finished! On a serious note, presenting at a New Librarians’ Symposium is one of the few opportunities to start putting your name and ideas out there, to share and add to the knowledge of this profession, not to mention a shiny piece for your CV.

 

You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

Thinking I’m an established professional? Nope. I’m a LIS masters student and only embarked on this career path a few years ago.

Following my experience at last year’s NLS, it’s time to pay it forward. I’m a Brissy local and co-chair of the Experience sub-committee on a mission to maximise your experience at the 6th New Librarians’ Symposium.

Not only can you expect a supportive Organising Committee, but the Experience team are also here to provide you with information about getting to Brisbane – you know, the “nitty-gritty, how do I get to the city from the airport?” kind of things to make your planning and participation experience to be as smooth and of best value as possible to you as a budding information professional.

The Experience team will have you revved up for NLS6 with an engaging and inspiring program of workshops on the Saturday, the day before NLS6 begins. In the lead up, we’ll be passing on travel deals, provide restaurant and accommodation reviews, and create opportunities to make connections with others and participate in discussions well before the event. Need to workout while you’re here? We’ve got you covered. We’ll find you the gyms in and around the CBD. Need gluten free options? No problem. The team will suss out catering restaurants. Need some help getting around QUT and the symposium program? We’ll have a team of volunteers you can approach. But what about drinks and tweet ups, you ask? Definitely no issues there. Social events will be planned closer to and during the event.

An “Ask the Experience team” mailbox will be set up shortly for you to start emailing your questions through.

So go on, have a crack. Who knows, right?