My name is Caitlin Mariano and I am a junior at the University of New
Haven. This past January I attended the Annual Meeting in Dallas, Texas along
with four other classmates. This was my third Annual Meeting, and I continue to
be blown away by PCMA's ability to put on a good conference as well as a good
party. The sessions were different than all the other years, and the nightlife
was very entertaining and enjoyed by all age groups -- especially the closing reception
performance by Rick Springfield.
As
President of the UNH Student Chapter I attended the Chapter Leadership Workshop
and learned so much about the different problems and concerns business
professionals in the industry encounter. Also, I learned about the other chapters
and problems they face as a whole. It was very interesting to hear that some of the
problems we experienced as a student chapter were also faced by "the mother"
chapters. The UNH Student Chapter attended "Let Your Listening Skills do the
Talking". We all found it interesting to find out things about people and what
type of listeners different people are. As young adults in college, getting
ready and learning about the industry, it's helpful to learn little things like
that. It is something we can start practicing now for "the real world". Another
session we attended was "No More Excuses It's Time to be Accountable" by Sam
Silverstein. This was also useful for our everyday lives. College students such
as me have a lot of tasks to complete, but for some reason cannot avoid
procrastination. I personally have six classes this semester as well as being
President of the PCMA Student Chapter. I start to get work done, but somehow
find myself on facebook - putting off the tasks that need to be completed. After attending this session I have been able to manage my time much better -- as well as get things done!
Overall,
my experience in Dallas was excellent! I learned so much and got to experience
Dallas for the first time, and with great company. I have made multiple
connections through networking at all of the different sessions as well as
receptions, which I am also thankful to PCMA for. I am already looking forward
to next year and am excited to see what PCMA is going to come up with for Las
Vegas!
|