Raise Your Hand at AIEC

Now, I was clearly that geeky kid in high school in the band (but never played well), joined the student’s council (but was never President), and helped all the teachers clean the classroom and organize the school trips. I didn’t ‘lean in’ like a Sandburg but I raised my hand like a Patty Simcox (get your Grease reference on).

Now, “THE” event for International Education is just around the corner. The IEAA/IDP Australian International Education conference in Hobart Oct 10-13 is the time for a “who’s who” in International education to gather and learn new things, talk about what’s working and what isn’t, reflect on the year, plan for the future and network, network, network.

What does it mean for the keener? It means I have a chockers schedule with a workshop to deliver, chairing sessions, giving a little welcome speech at the newcomer’s drinks, committee meetings, business meetings and loads of promises to ‘catch up for a coffee or a drink.’ It means a fun costume for the themed dinner.  It also means, I get to make the most of my 4 days and focus on International education and its incredible people. 

When I went to my first AIEC 6 years ago, I was lost. I didn’t know anyone. I played with my phone. I got work done in the hotel room and I felt like I didn’t measure up to the stars in the industry around me. 

How times have changed and this is how I changed them.

I started to raise my hand. I joined a Special Interest Group. I volunteered for committees. I asked what I could do. It has changed my world. 

It means I get to shape and mold the future of International education in my own little way. 

It means before and after the conference, I have a comprehensive network of friends, compatriots and experts in all areas of International education.

 It means, I no longer have time to play with my phone or answer my emails during the AIEC.

I love the AIEC, because I get to reconnect, rejuvenate and meet so many new people. It is a chance to congratulate ourselves on whatever major hurdles we have overcome and develop and gain new perspectives to take back to our own institutions.  

It is also an excellent time to raise your hand.