
AWS re:Invent uncovered - TOP TIPS FOR FIRST-TIME ATTENDEES
Dive into AWS re:Invent with confidence! Discover top tips tailored for first-time attendees and make the most of the world's biggest tech conference.
- Start Early with the Session Catalog: Weeks before the event kicks off, AWS releases a detailed session catalog. This is your treasure map. Dive into it, explore the myriad sessions, and mark your favorites. Whether you're into deep technical dives, visionary keynotes, or hands-on workshops, there's something for everyone. But remember, the most sought-after sessions fill up fast. So, once the session reservation window opens, be swift to secure your spot.
- The Walk-In Strategy: Missed out on reserving a seat for that session you were eyeing? Don't fret. Every session has walk-in lines. But here's the catch: they can get long, especially for popular sessions. If you're determined not to miss out, ensure you allocate enough time to queue up. Arriving early can make the difference between being part of the action inside or hearing about it later.
- Avoid the Hotel Hop: While it might be tempting to jump between hotels to catch various sessions, it's a time-consuming endeavor. The distances between hotels can be deceptive, and even with the shuttle services, you might find yourself spending more time in transit than you'd like. Check the session catalog: many popular sessions are repeated at different venues throughout the week. If you can, try to cluster your sessions by location each day. It'll save you time and energy.
- Shuttle Services Are Your Friend: If you do need to switch venues, make the most of the shuttle services provided. They're efficient, regular, and a great way to move between locations without the hassle of navigating Vegas traffic.
- Embrace Community and Networking Events: Beyond the official sessions, re:Invent is teeming with community-led events, meetups, and networking opportunities. These are goldmines for making connections, sharing experiences, and even having a bit of fun. Keep an eye on the re:Invent page and session catalog for these events. Whether it's a casual meetup at a local bar or a more formal networking dinner, these events can be some of the most rewarding parts of your re:Invent experience.
- Take a Breath: It's easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of back-to-back sessions and events. But remember, it's okay to take a step back. Schedule some downtime. Whether it's a leisurely coffee break, a stroll around the venue, or just some quiet time to process what you've learned, these moments can be incredibly refreshing and give you the energy to dive back in with renewed vigor.
- Beyond the Breakout: While breakout sessions are informative, they're often recorded and available for viewing post-event on platforms like YouTube. If you're looking for a more interactive experience, consider other formats.
- Chalk Talks & Builder Sessions: These are smaller, more intimate settings where AWS experts dive deep into specific topics. The beauty of these sessions? They're interactive. You can ask questions, engage in discussions, and get feedback on your specific challenges.
- Code Talks - The New Kid on the Block: Making its debut this year, Code Talks promises to be an exciting addition. Tailored for developers, these sessions are all about diving deep into code, exploring best practices, and getting hands-on with AWS services.
- Level 100: These are introductory sessions, providing a broad overview of a topic. Ideal for those new to AWS or a specific service.
- Level 200: Intermediate sessions that delve a bit deeper, offering a more detailed look at specific AWS services or solutions.
- Level 300: Advanced sessions, perfect for those with a good grasp of AWS. They dive deep into specific topics, often involving complex architectures and solutions.
- Level 400: The deep dive. These are for the pros, covering intricate details, best practices, and advanced architectures.
- Pause and Reflect: With so much information coming your way, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Schedule pockets of time to pause, reflect, and process what you've learned. Whether it's jotting down notes, discussing with peers, or simply taking a quiet moment to think, these breaks can enhance your understanding and retention.
- Listen to Your Body: It's a marathon, not a sprint. While the excitement can keep you going, it's essential to listen to your body. If you're feeling drained, it's okay to skip a session or take a longer break. Remember, the goal is to leave re:Invent enriched, not exhausted.
- Stay Energized: With the adrenaline rush of the event, you might be tempted to skip meals or grab quick, less-nutritious options. But to stay sharp and attentive, it's crucial to nourish yourself with balanced meals. Thankfully, re:Invent offers a variety of food options. Whether you're grabbing a lunch box from the catering or exploring local eateries, prioritize meals that give you sustained energy.
- Hydration is Key: Las Vegas can be dry, and with all the walking and talking, you'll need to stay hydrated. Don't rely solely on caffeine (tempting, I know). Make use of the numerous water dispensers scattered throughout the venue. Pro tip: During your re:Invent check-in, you'll receive a refillable bottle. Keep it handy and refill it regularly. It's an eco-friendly way to ensure you're always hydrated.
- Take Breaks: Amidst sessions, find spots to relax and enjoy a snack or a drink. One of my favorite places is outside the Caesars Forum. It's a great spot to catch some fresh air, bask in the sun, and recharge before diving back into the action.
- Dive into the AWS Ecosystem: The expo is not just about flashy booths and swag (though there's plenty of that!). It's a chance to dive deep into the AWS ecosystem, explore new tools, and discover solutions that can elevate your cloud game.
- Engage with AWS Experts: The AWS Village is a gem within the expo. Here, you'll find dedicated booths for almost every AWS service or group of services. It's a golden opportunity to engage with AWS experts, ask questions, clarify doubts, and even provide feedback or feature requests.
- Connect with the Community: Don't miss out on the AWS Heroes Lounge and the AWS Community Lounge. These spaces are buzzing with energy, offering a chance to interact with AWS Heroes, join DevChat sessions, and immerse yourself in the vibrant AWS community.
- Be sustainable: While it's tempting to grab everything in sight, be selective. Think about what you'll genuinely use or cherish. Some attendees even bring an extra bag just for swag, but remember, quality over quantity. Be sustainable!
- Eco-Friendly Choices: Many vendors are now offering sustainable swag options. Whether it's a reusable water bottle, eco-friendly tote bags, or bamboo tech accessories, make choices that are kind to our planet.
- Share the Love: If you end up with swag that's not quite your style or duplicates, consider sharing with colleagues, friends, or even donating. It's a great way to spread the re:Invent spirit beyond the event.