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Newbie.  Freshman.   First-timer.  Whatever the name for it, there is always a first time for everyone and everything.  Are you a first-time BbWorld attendee?  Are you wondering how best to take advantage of all the resources and opportunitites at BbWorld?  How can you make the most of it?

Here are some tips for first-time BbWorld attendees:

1) Plan your schedule

There are more than 15 sessions in four concurrent tracks, so take time before you leave home to plan your schedule.  This is especially effective for institutions sending a small team.  Review the schedule of activities together and then "divide and conquer" to maximize the number and types of sessions your team attends.  To help plan your schedule ahead of time use the MyBbWorld Planner.

2) Bring a list

Bring a list of things you need answers for or information about.  The list will help you stay focused in the midst of what can be an overwhelming event because there are so many sessions, activities and events that will compete for your time.

3) Wear your conference badge and bring business cards

Be sure to wear your badge so others can read who you are and where you’re from.  It seems obvious but you would be surprised at how often one’s badge is hidden or facing the wrong way.  Bring your business cards so that you can share your contact information with the people you meet.

4) Attend a user group meeting

This year there are 16 user groups meeting during the conference.  User groups are fabulous communities to tap into, join and contribute to, year round.  There are many different user groups and if you don’t find one right for you, consider starting a new one!  Email us at communities@blackboard.com for more information.

5) Join the BbWorld ’08 Facebook Group

Find out who is coming to BbWorld ’08 and get to know them better through the BbWorld Facebook Group.  Create an account on Facebook and join this fun group.

6) Follow the conference on Twitter

As handy as it would be, you can’t be in two places (or more) at once.  Join the BbWorld ’08 Twitter Group and follow what is going on in other parts of the conference as members tweet their experiences.

7) Explore the exhibit hall

Visit with the conference sponsors to learn about new technologies and trends, see demonstrations of new products, and connect with other attendees who are exploring solutions that compliment and extend Blackboard software.

Visit the Blackboard booth

Come say hello!  Meet the Blackboard team and talk to the Doctors C.  Get answers to your questions and see demos of new tools, including the Grade Center, Blackboard Sync (our integration with Facebook) and more.

9) Attend the Blackboard keynote address

Once a year we reveal our vision for the Blackboard product roadmap.  That moment is the Blackboard keynote address at BbWorld.  You’ll learn about the community’s accomplishments from the past year, hear about our focus for the coming year, and see a demonstration of products and features that we are working on.  It is a session not to be missed.

10) Have fun

Last but not least, to get the most out of BbWorld ’08, you should also have some fun.  Relax and enjoy the new connections and friends you make at the various evening activities and the Client Appreciation Party.

Looking forward to seeing you in Las Vegas!