There’s always a certain excitement in Lambda world around the time of year when Conference/Convention is but a few short days away. This year is no different; in fact, I find myself as excited as a Neo when they first see all the available para at the vendor’s tables. Normally you’d hear someone pitching a big event like this with a, “Unlike any [insert event name] you’ve ever been to!!” Nine times out of ten that’s a gross exaggeration. However, I can definitely hit you with the “unlike any Lambda Conference you’ve ever been to” line because, well, it will be unlike any other Conference.
It’s our first time partnering up with another organization, Lambda Theta Alpha, to co-host our Conference. While we’ll have our own Brother-only events and workshops, we’ll also have some in conjunction with the Lambda ladies. Add the food and fun that New Orleans offers and it will be one for the books.
With that said, here are a few Do’s and Don’ts for having a good time in New Orleans.
DO: Download the LambdaCon app
If anything, download it because we have our own app! Do you really need any other reason? Ok, the app has the conference schedule, hotel information, and other important Conference updates. You know you’re not going to remember where most of the rooms are anyway. Save yourself some time now.
DON’T: Plan on getting a lot of sleep
I mean you could go to sleep early or wake up late, but let’s be real, that’s no fun (ok maybe the sleeping-in part is, but not if you have to be at a 9am workshop). Conferences (Lambda-related or otherwise) are about maximizing the experience, and often that means not exactly getting your eight hours of sleep. That said, don’t be that guy that falls asleep during a session. You will get called out (saw it in San Francisco). Get some kind of sleep man.
DO: Take the time to meet Brothers outside your immediate circle
One of the biggest complaints I hear after Conference/Convention is that Brothers tend to stay in their immediate circles. I’ve never really had that problem, but I see a lot of guys stick to their chapter/region and that’s it. If you’re an undergrad, take these opportunities to learn about how other parts of the country do things. There are some great learning opportunities that you’re missing out on if you don’t branch out.
DON’T: Try to fit as many dudes in one hotel room as you can
Some guys will try to save some money by cramming as many bodies as possible into one room. I think all of us can identify with the broke undergrad. But if you run the risk of stepping on a dude’s head as you make your way to the bathroom at 4am, or if “older Brother rule” only means you’re sleeping three to a bed…there’s probably too many people in that room.
DO: Leave the diet at home
New Orleans is, in my opinion, the best city in the US to get your grub on. There’s Acme Oyster House, Mother’s Restaurant, Willie Mae’s Scotch House, Camellia Grill (late night), and a ton of other great places to eat. And, of course, the excellent beignets at Café du Monde. Can’t go wrong with food in this city.
DON’T: Forget the reason for Conference
This one goes out to all the undergrads/alumni that are at Conference for Conference reasons (not mad at everyone else who’s just there to enjoy NOLA though). Actively participate in Conference, ask questions, and talk to leadership about ideas you may have. Conference is a time to come together, collaborate, and ultimately make Lambda better for everyone.
DO: Remember that you are representing Lambda Theta Phi
I guess I need to add my old man/NEB reminder here. While we are in New Orleans to strengthen our Fraternity and have a great time, a great time can turn into a not-so-great one rather quickly. There will be hundreds of Brothers in town that weekend, use your better judgment and remember that you’re representing yourself, your chapter, your university, and Lambda.
DON’T: Kiss the ring
If you don’t know, ask an older Brother before arriving in New Orleans. Just trust me.
See you in New Orleans July 11-14!!
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and should not be understood to be shared by Lambda Theta Phi Latin Fraternity, Inc.