NSEMC Prep from a Pro

by Dana Schaeffer, CBI Advisory Board Member

The College Broadcasters, Inc.’s National Student Electronic Media Convention will be here before you know it. While most of the work will be done when you get here – during panels, meetings and one-on-one sessions — there are a few ways to get prepared before the eventful weekend in St. Louis. How to prepare for CBI:

1.    Get REST!
That sounds cheesy, but take it from me: working a lot, school, activities, then added travel WILL catch up to you! You want to make sure you’re ready for any meetings, conversations and activities that may pop up while in St. Louis. Nothing’s worse than being jet-lagged or just plain tired, then networking and having conversations with people. Remember these COULD be future employers!

2.       Update Your Resume
It’s always good to keep your resume updated, but sometimes we put it on the backburner. You want to make sure you have an updated resume, highlighting all your jobs, internships, activities and awards. Print some out and put them in a protective folder too!

3.       Business Cards
Just like the resume, business cards are also important — and impressive. If you’re out, and don’t have a resume with you, or just want to add a little extra to your presence, business cards are the way to go. They’re the easiest way to exchange information (and yes, while we all have phones, business cards add a level of professionalism to your “brand”). Remember, you’re selling yourself — you want businesses and employers, even schools — to invest in you.

4.       Clothes
Be comfortable! These days are long and there is a lot of walking and running around to do! It’s going to be fun, and while you want to look your best, you also want to feel your best. It’s no fun feeling uncomfortable all day.

5. Notepad/Laptop
The amount of knowledge that will be dispersed to you at CBI will be tremendous. Don’t underestimate the notes you will be taking. A notepad app on your phone could be useful, but with the number of notes you may want to take, it’s better to have a notepad or laptop… plus, it won’t look like you’re texting the whole time someone is speaking! 

6. Positive Outlook
Come with an open mind! There will be many different professionals you will meet that weekend and a lot of different professions you will be introduced to. Don’t hesitate to ask about different job titles and learn about them — you don’t know when it may be useful or, if you may find something that interests you even more! 

Hopefully these few tips will help you to prepare for an AWESOME weekend. Start getting ready now, you’ll be surprised how quickly it approaches! With updating a resume, or making business cards, it’ll take a few days to have everything ready — so think ahead! Otherwise, get ready, be prepared, book your stay and get ready to HAVE FUN! We’ll see you there!