It’s pretty incredible to think about the fact that you literally have something in common with the hundreds of attendees sitting at the tables in each session at SNIC. The extroverted introvert I am loves to make new friends from all over the country at these conferences — but is shaking in my boots as I approach them. I usually pick a table in a session where there’s an empty seat or two in between each person. I’ve found this usually means each individual is from a different place. There’s no icebreaker necessary when we are all there to learn how to raise the bar on school nutrition. By the time we’ve learned each other’s names and where we are from, the session starts. The next thing you know, the speaker gives a mic drop moment and you and your new friends are enthusiastically saying amen, nodding (or maybe even clapping!) in unison. I love connecting on LinkedIn with my new friends in the industry. Staying connected allows for a resource outside my community with generally a much different perspective and set of experience to call on when I need council. Additionally, I’m always sure to “like and follow” their business or district Facebook and Instagram pages. Not only are these great ways to stay in touch, but I find that this is the best way to support my friends in the things they are doing in their stomping grounds, and they usually do the same for me as well! I’ve found that as I make more friends outside of my home state, I’ve really looked forward to the next opportunity I’ll get to see them at the next national conference.
Going into day one, I was out of practice forming full sentences and dangerously behind on proper sleep. I hope that sharing my personal experience attending SNIC this year presents some inspiration to reflect on the barriers that you perceive to be holding you back and consider creative ways to make it happen! Leaving San Diego, I felt reignited and anxious for my return to the grind. There was a fresh beat to the pulse of the school nutrition community and a taste of “innovation” in the air. Next year SNIC will be in Orlando, Florida on January 14-16, 2024. Mark your calendars now and start thinking about how you’re going to get there! Trust me, it’s an experience you can’t miss. Resources: https://schoolnutrition.org/careers-training/certificate-credentialing/ credentialing/ https://www.fns.usda.gov/cn/professional-standards Quiz CLICK HERE to take quiz online for 1 CEU! Professional Development
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