Hotlanta and the 10NTC

While my time in DC was characterised by cocktails, malls and gay bars, my time in 'Hotlanta' was of an entirely different nature. Apart from the fabulous people and the interesting food options, what drew me to the States this year was what I suspected would an unbridled geek fest of technology and social change. And I wasn't disappointed. NTEN's 10th annual conference, aka 10NTC was everything I had hoped for and more. 

The minute I walked into the conference hotel, I was excited. Everywhere I turned, people were talking about Twitter, they had laptops, smart phones and friendly, passionate attitudes. I felt like I was home. Of course, I felt drastically technologically disabled and unprepared. Not only was I too lazy to carry my laptop from my much cheaper hotel down the road, my iPhone functionality was limited (curse you Optus!). Oh, and I didn't have any business cards. I had bought a small notepad and was handing out my details on pieces of paper. So ridiculously old school. I like to think it made me more selective about who I gave my details to, but no. It didn't. I feel vaguely concerned I did my country a disservice - those Australians, so provincial don't you know? Also, I kept forgetting my camera. 

My alarming unpreparedness aside, I had the most amazing time. For the first time ever, I really felt like I was a part of something exciting and I absolutely, cannot wait to come home and start talking to people about it all. We were fortunate enough to hear Andrew Sullivan speak, whose words reminded me that I am a part of a new era of information and interaction, an era that sees the flattening of media hierarchies and news and stories being shared through dialogue. Which to this social working nerd is perhaps the most exciting thing ever. *gush*gush*gush*

I saw some great panels and sessions and heard ideas from some amazing people. I could gush about them all right now, but I won't. A key learning I took away was that I need to start developing a 'professional' online presence. Do not fret! The stream of consciousness and silly tales of 'JustAnne' will continue unabated - but other things are in the mix now, and I have to be at least vaguely strategic.

Oh, and the people! I met some of the most amazing people!! It is so distressing that there must soon be a rather largish ocean between us - but thanks to technology, I still get to talk to them from afar. But then, I always knew that the people would be fantastic, as I am rather in love with Americans. Despite what the rest of the world thinks, I have always found them to be a warm, welcoming people. I think this sentiment shocked a few of my fellow conference go-ers, and I suppose I shouldn't speak too soon as I still have a couple of days left in LA - but oh! It was a joy!!

Ultimately, NTC was exactly the kind of career changing stimulus I needed. As for Atlanta, it was a pretty groovy town. Although I didn't see too much of it. Most of my time spent outside hotels was trailing after large groups of people and exclaiming every so often "I have no idea where I am right now". I suspect it may have gotten old, but true to form, everyone was still lovely to me. I was encouraged to try a variety of Southern delicacies, including sweet tea, shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, black-eyed peas (who knew they were more than just a band!?) and pecan pie. And that was all in one dinner. You can rest assured that I was one full lady.

 

After the conference was over I treated myself to a proper stroll around some of downtown Atlanta. It was quite beautiful and I quickly grabbed a few snaps to prove I had been there (I took absolutely none in DC, which was equally beautiful). I also bought an Obama t-shirt, which was very exciting (I'm going to wear it to work!). 

 

 

   

 

So once again, a great big thank you and virtual hug goes out to all of the 10NTC peeps who were so amazingly cool. Not too mention v accepting of lil' ol' me. You are all, rock stars. 

Comments

[Ian]

Oh, THAT Andrew Sullivan! I was invited to a party at his house in DC in March. I didn't go as I am very conflicted about him.

[Tatiana]

I'm so glad you let me follow you around, spouting my Aussie love and picking up your accent. And you kept me from lunging at anyone inappropriate. In my NTC survey, I said we are already planning our international communications session, so we'll need to get on that once you are back home.

[Mosha]

Great