A First-Timer’s Guide to WordCamp US

I remember my first WordCamp. It felt intimidating walking into that first session room not knowing anyone or what to expect. I’ve been to a few more since then (about 15!), and I have learned a few things about navigating these events. I’m going to cover a few things that I wished I’d known when I attended my first WordCamp, so that you can have a much smoother experience. 

Daily Schedule

WordCamp US is happening over four days: Contributor Day, Showcase Day, two days of sessions and workshops, and a social event at the end of the last day. 

Contributor Day

Contributor day is spent contributing back to the WordPress open source project, the Community of people who keep the WordPress software going. Anyone can contribute; knowing how to write code isn’t necessary. Learn more about contributor day and sign up to attend!

Showcase Day

Showcase day is where we learn about all the amazing things people are doing with WordPress. In the past we’ve seen live demos, case studies, and presentations on actionable strategy for your own site.

Sessions and Workshops and Parties, Oh My!

The last two days of WordCamp US are dedicated to sessions, workshops, and a social event. The sessions and workshops cover a variety of topics. Find yourself stuck trying to choose between more than one session? Fear not. All sessions are recorded and posted on YouTube following the conference.

Once the sessions are done, it’s time to party! On the last day of the conference, there will be a social event (location TBA). This usually involves, food, drinks, and something fun to do. Last year, we were at the World Forestry Center in Portland, OR. It’s always a great time celebrating four days of learning and all the amazing things the WordPress community has to offer.

Networking

WordCamp US is definitely a networking event. It’s a fantastic place to meet new people and make connections across the WordPress industry. It might be tempting to skip the networking and spend all of your time in sessions, but I wouldn’t. While the content is always great, the people are too. 

In addition to the social events throughout the conference, there is something we refer to as the hallway track. This is the sponsor hall; there will be lots of booths from our incredible sponsors where you can stop in and say hi and grab some swag. In the hallway track, you’ll see people chatting and catching up. Resist the urge to make a quick pass and not return, and try out some of these tips:

• The WordPress question: My favorite way to get the conversation flowing is to ask people what they do with WordPress. It’s a simple, neutral question that almost everyone there might have an answer for.
• Join a table and say hi: See an open table at lunch? Ask to join! It might feel a little weird at first, but you always have “the WordPress question” to lean on.
• Make sure they know your name: While you’re at lunch, put your name badge on the table so people know your name. If you decorate your lanyard with pins like I do (more on this later), it might spark a conversation!
• A note on ‘C’ conversations: When you do join a conversation in the hallway track (you will, promise!), make sure you keep it shaped like a ‘C.’ Like the letter C, it has a gap where your next new friend can join and chat as well.
• Volunteer: Volunteering during WordCamp US is a great way to meet new people in a low-pressure way! Volunteer applications close July 1st. 

What to Bring

Packing for WordCamp US is pretty straightforward. Bring a way to take notes, comfortable shoes and clothing, and yourself. Some people like a little more detail than that, so here’s what I usually bring: 

• Computer: I prefer to take notes on my laptop. There’s also Contributor Day and workshops; both of those are hands-on events, and you will need your computer to participate.
• Power: If you love tech as much as I do, you probably have a few devices that you bring along. Make sure you have cables to charge everything. Bring some extras; it’s good way to make a friend.
• Adapters: You may never need them, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. I always travel with my USB-C to USB-A and USB-C to HDMI adapters, plus a universal card reader. Again, probably won’t use them, but it’s another opportunity to meet someone new.
• Notebook & Pen: While I use my laptop for most everything note-wise, sometimes you need to jot something down really quick. A small notebook and a pen is great for this.
• Wapuu Pins: I love my Wapuu pins. With all the pins I end up with on my lanyard every year, you’ll probably hear me jingling before you see me come into view.
• Space in Your Luggage: Make sure you keep open space in your luggage. WordCamp US sponsors usually have swag items like notebooks, shirts, tote bags, and more at their booths. Make sure you have some way to take this home.
• Water Bottle: I love my water bottle. It’s my emotional support. With temps in Arizona in August reaching higher than 105°F (40°C), I will most certainly be packing at least one. 

Additionally, make sure you’re wearing comfortable shoes at the convention center. Phoenix Convention Center is a large place and you’re going to be walking around quite a bit. There are years where I can recall walking several miles over the course of just a few days.

Getting the Most Out of WordCamp US

The most important part of coming to WordCamp US is having a plan for when you get here. Decide early what your goals are for attending. Find your path and plan your schedule accordingly. 

While you’re here, make sure you’re pacing yourself. There’s so much to do and see and you’re going to want to see it all. Don’t. Make sure you’re getting enough rest and time to take care of yourself each day.

Lastly, have fun! Just as much as WordCamp US is an event focused on learning, it’s also a celebration. Join us to celebrate the software, the community that supports it, and the relationships that we’ve created. I hope to see you there; if you do, say hi. 

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