Conference 101: What to Know Before You Go

Welcome to the N4CSGA Fall Conference!

Whether it’s your very first N4CSGA Conference or you’re a returning attendee, you’re about to embark on an exciting three-day journey of learning, networking, and personal growth. This year, Cape Fear Community College is hosting from October 17–19, and the theme “Empowering Voices, Investing in Change” sets the tone for workshops, panels, and events that will challenge, inspire, and connect you with other student leaders from across North Carolina.

The N4CSGA Fall Conference is more than just a series of workshops! It’s a space to exchange ideas, discover new ways to engage on your campus, and gain skills that will benefit you long after the conference ends. So, whether you’re attending for the first time or returning to level up your experience, this guide is here to help you navigate, prepare, and make the most of every moment!

1. Pack Smart and Be Ready

Packing for conference is more than just clothes, it’s about being prepared for every type of activity. Here’s a checklist to guide you:

• Professional attire: You’ll need polished outfits for committee meetings, workshops, and networking sessions. Think business casual that’s comfortable enough for a full day.

• Casual attire: Conference also includes downtime, social events, and Spirit Points activities where casual clothes are more appropriate. Pack comfortable, everyday outfits for these moments.

• Comfortable shoes: You’ll be moving between sessions and activities, so sneakers or flats that are easy to walk in are a must.

• Spirit gear: Show off your delegation pride! This could be school colors, themed accessories, or creative outfits for the weekend.

• Stationery or digital devices: Bring notebooks, pens, or a tablet to take notes, track your points during workshops, and stay organized during committees.

• Snacks and water: Keep your energy up during long sessions! Snacks and a reusable water bottle are lifesavers.

• Chargers and power banks: Don’t let a dead phone or laptop slow you down.

  
  

2. Pick Your Committees with Intention

Committee sessions are the heart of Fall Conference. These are where ideas turn into actions and where you can make a real impact.

• Do your research: Review the committees and their descriptions ahead of time. Which ones align with your interests or your delegation’s goals?

• Consider your strengths: Think about what you bring to the table. Are you a natural advocate, a creative problem-solver, or someone who loves organizing details? Pick committees where your skills can shine!

• Consistency matters: Make sure the committee you choose for Saturday sessions is the same one you attend on Sunday before the business meeting. This continuity ensures your ideas and contributions carry through, and your delegation gets the entirety of the information presented.

• Maximize delegation impact: If your delegation has multiple members attending, spread out so that each member joins a different committee. This way, your delegation can gather a wide range of information, strategies, and ideas to bring back to your campus.

3. Pick Your Spirit Points Strategy

Spirit Points aren’t just a fun way to show your school's pride, they’re also an opportunity to engage with your delegation, connect with other schools, and make conference even more memorable. Planning ahead ensures you can maximize points and participation.

• Coordinate with your team: Most games allow a maximum of two people per delegation. Decide ahead of time who will participate in each activity so your team can cover more games without overlapping. Spreading out ensures your delegation can maximize total points.

• Stay energized: Spirit Points activities can be fast-paced and high-energy. Bring water, snacks, and a positive attitude to keep your team going all the way through late-night activities.

4. Embrace Cultural Enrichment

Fall Conference isn’t just about business and motions, but it’s also a chance to explore, learn, and experience new perspectives with your delegation. Cultural enrichment activities take place at the end of Day 2, giving your team time to reflect and engage together.

• Make it meaningful: Since this is your delegation’s dedicated time, plan ahead to see events that interest your group and make the most of your shared experience.

• Explore with your delegation: Attend cultural events, presentations, or performances as a group. This could include historical, local attractions, or other activities that help your delegation wind down, while still keeping it engaging.

5. Stay Connected

Conference is a great time to meet new delegates and reconnect with friends from other campuses.

• Exchange contact info: Bring business cards or be ready to add peers on social media or email.

• Use the N4CSGA group chat and website groups: The N4CSGA has dedicated groups on the website where delegates can collaborate with other schools, exchange valuable insights, and share ideas. The group chat is perfect for quick coordination during conference, and groups are great for ongoing discussions.

• Follow up afterward: Connections are valuable! A quick message after conference can start collaborations or friendships that last all year.

Fall Conference is your opportunity to grow as a leader, connect with peers, and bring new ideas back to your campus. By packing smart, choosing your committees wisely, and staying connected through the N4CSGA, you’ll be prepared to make the most of every moment. Embrace the experience, support your delegation, and enjoy every chance to learn, lead, and you’ll leave conference energized, inspired, and with valuable experience to share and apply back on your campus!

Written by Stephanie Pano, Public Information Officer, N4CSGA 25-26

Date: October 13, 2025

Thank you for taking the time to read! Stay engaged, make your voice heard, and keep leading in your community. For questions or to get involved in upcoming initiatives, feel free to reach out at n4csga@gmail.com or follow us on @n4csga.