The PASS Summit is an annual gathering of SQL Server professionals and others interested in learning more about SQL Server. Folks come from all over. Here’s a few suggestions for getting more out of your PASS Summit experience.
“What if I’m Not There?”
Not everyone can attend the PASS Summit. You can still enjoy a taste of the activities via PASSTV, which will be streamed from the PASS Summit 2014 home page.
Meet New People
If this is your first (or one of your first) PASS Summit(s), don’t be shy. If you see someone you want to meet, introduce yourself. If that person is in a conversation or appears otherwise engaged (for example, if that someone is sitting outside the Subway on the fifth level of the Washington State Convention Center furiously typing a blog post… hypothetically…) say “Hi” and, if you want to talk more or discuss some technology question or even just hang out, ask if now or later is a good time. I can speak from experience, most geeks love sharing and will stop typing their blog post or whatever they’re doing to have a chat with you.
Old timers (like me), if you see someone wearing a First Timers ribbon, you introduce yourself! You remember how you felt your first Summit, break the ice. Our field is disproportionately populated by introverts, take some initiative.
Be Respectful and Tolerant
Everyone believes what they believe for a reason. You do not have to agree with what someone says or does. But unless they’re trampling on others, respect their expressions. And if they are trampling on others, intervene. Either personally, or by finding someone who can and will intervene. PASS leadership has gone to great lengths to define a fair and practical Anti-Harassment Policy. Read it. Now. And if you see someone acting in a manner you believe inconsistent with this policy, please tell someone.
Learn
Microsoft has a habit of releasing new cool stuff during the week of the PASS Summit. You can learn about it first by attending or viewing the Keynote addresses Wednesday and Thursday morning. There are too many awesome sessions at the Summit happening at the same time – it’s a fact. But you can view the sessions and powerpoints by purchasing the downloads or USB sticks loaded with them at the PASS Boutique. Even if you cannot attend, you can buy all the content. Plus, the PASS Boutique sells other “PASS-Wear” and data geek paraphernalia.
I would love to meet you if you’re attending the Summit. You can find me at the Linchpin People booth in the Exhibition Hall or wandering hither and yon. I will also be presenting Wednesday morning. I hope to meet you here!
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