First Time Attendees
ECA Convention First-Timers Survival Checklist
1️⃣ The Schedule: Your Roadmap
☐ Download the program & plan your day
☐ Highlight sessions that interest you
☐ Attend at least one Interest Group Business Meeting (simply observe if you don’t want to participate)
☐ Make note of beneficial events: Newcomers Reception, Welcome Reception, Trivia Night, CONNECT conference, Yoga, Run Club, President’s Reception, Refreshment breaks, etc.
☐ Note daily AA meetings, if needed
☐ Star free food events (coffee/snack breaks!)
2️⃣ If You are Presenting
☐ Practice ahead of time
☐ Keep within your time limit
☐ Anticipate audience questions
☐ Have a tech backup plan (printout, laptop, handouts)
☐ Share contact info for follow-ups (QR codes are efficient!)
3️⃣ Practical Tips
☐ Bring business cards (paper or digital)
☐ Store collected cards in your lanyard holder
☐ Spot the “Ask Me Anything” button people (they’re your guides to insider info!)
☐ Step outside the hotel: eat local, walk, do excursions, meet up with friends. While we love seeing you, you do not need to spend every day inside the hotel, go explore!
☐ Ask questions or chat with presenters after panels
☐ Use social spaces (coffee breaks, hotel bar, lobby) to mingle
☐ Follow conference social media for updates (#ECA2026)
☐ Connect to free Wi-Fi (hotel rooms, public spaces, session rooms)
4️⃣ Dress for Success (and Comfort)
☐ Wear your name tag
☐ Business casual is the norm
☐ Bring comfy walking shoes (lots of walking between/around sessions)
☐ Pack workout clothes if you want to join yoga/running/gym sessions
☐ Layer up! Bring a sweater/hoodie (ballrooms can be chilly)
5️⃣ Food & Fuel
☐ Hotel food can be pricey, so consider nearby restaurants
☐ Take advantage of ECA snack/food events
☐ Carry a refillable water bottle
☐ Stock snacks in your hotel room
☐ Keep a small snack in your bag for between sessions
6️⃣ Pro Moves
☐ Say yes to invites (panels, meetings, meals, socials)
☐ Attend at least one social event
☐ Attend at least one Interest Group Business Meeting
☐ Consider volunteering for next year (Reviewer, Planner, Chair, etc.)
☐ Remember: it’s okay to sleep in, skip a panel, or take breaks
☐ Most importantly → make friends, learn new things, eat well, enjoy yourself 🎉
