The first official scientific conferences

I attended the Conference for Research Workers in Animal Disease (CRWAD) in Chicago (IL) before Christmas and Virginia Techs Graduate Student Association symposium  last month. I presented my poster in both meetings, and would like to summarize what to do and not to do in a scientific meeting.

1. Being a short person, wearing high heels makes it easier to look people in the eye. But try to choose comfortable shoes. Standing for 4 hours in one place will hurt your feet.
2.  At least try to look like you are over 14 years old... (even if it is only to avoid long looks at the bar). So dress professionally.
3. Locate the bathrooms BEFORE sitting in the middle of the bench row for 3 hours of  talks.
4. Attend talks and see posters that are not directly connected to your research. We shall branch out like the mold growing under your sink...
5. Take notes. It is likely you can't remember a single thing after getting back home. And your boss will ask you stuff about the meeting. 
6. Do not faint during presentation. You will be reminded of the incident for ever. (And if you do, make sure your boss or co-workers are there to catch you, before hitting the hard floor.)
7. Eat everything offered to you! (everything = edible non toxic products)This will help in avoiding above mentioned situation.
8. Do not fall asleep during your presentation, at your bosses talk, or during the opening ceremonies.
9. Do not get the senior scientists drunk, unless you are willing to get them safely back to their hotel.
10. Talk to people! Even if they seem scary senior scientists, post-Docs or group leaders. They have also been graduate students, so they can relate. And they are really nice...

I really enjoyed these meetings. I got to talk to interesting people and learn about cutting edge science. Also bonding with the fellow graduate students was great. Key element for enjoying the meetings was proper preparation. It also helps if your boss is encouraging and willing to coach you for this. Hopefully can participate in other meetings in the future. Getting inspired by the people I meet there is the best part and cannot be achieved to same extent by staying in your lab or office.