December 20, 2017

Know Before You Go 

Insider Tips for Getting the Most Out of AIAS FORUM Texas

In a little more than a week, we will be seeing you in Austin, TX! We’ve compiled a list of reminders and tips so that YOU are prepared for the most awesome FORUM yet.

1. What to pack

  • Sketchbook
  • Pen/Pencils
  • Laptop + Charger: Most workshops require a laptop.
  • Camera: The Architectural Photography Workshop requires a camera.
  • Business cards
  • Portfolio + Resume: Remember your portfolio for our College & Career Expo and Portfolio Workshop.
  • Comfortable Footwear: Most of the tours require a substantial amount of walking – plan ahead.

2. Download the Bizzabo app

This year, everything has been digitalized! Download the Bizzabo app to manage your schedule, navigate the conference, and stay up-to-date on everything FORUM related.

3. Visit us at the registration desk

Stop by the registration desk to check-in and grab your conference bag!

Registration Desk Hours:
Thursday, December 28th — 3:00pm-10:00pm
Friday, December 29th — 7:00am-7:00pm
Saturday, December 30th — 8:00am-7:00pm
Sunday, December 31st — 8:00am-7:00pm
Monday: January 1st — 12:00pm-7:00pm

4. Book your Tour + Event Tickets

Tickets for tours and events are both sold online and onsite. Tickets are limited, so be sure to purchase them sooner rather than later. If you bought your tickets in advance, you can pick them up when you check-in at registration. Keep in mind that you do have the option to purchase tickets onsite at the Tours + Events table.

Honor Awards: $20
Beaux Arts Ball (Guest): $50

5. Getting around Austin

Interested in using public transportation while in Austin? Make sure to check out their metro’s schedules & maps and to download the CapMetro App. If you’d prefer ridesharing, take advantage of the exclusive offer through Lyft below:
New Users: Get $5 off 3 rides with code AIASFORUM17. Click here to download the app and redeem.
Existing users: Get 25% off a ride to/from AIAS Forum at JW Marriott with code AIASFORUM25OFF. Clickhere to redeem.

6. What to expect onsite

This year, each day is categorized as a different “track” and tracks do not need to be selected ahead of time.

General Session: Open to all attendees
Educational Sessions: Seating is first come, first serve
Meetups: Casual get-togethers bringing together like-minded people. They are lightly moderated but mostly built around networking. Bring your opinion and your handshake.
Workshops: Most workshops are first come, first serve and some are ticketed. Please read descriptions so you are properly prepared for each workshop.

Need a place to hang between sessions? Head over to the AIA Student Lounge. The lounge will have some programming including a live recording of #Askanarchitect, but will also be used as a default networking break area in between sessions and during “down times.” When in doubt, head over to the student lounge

All tours depart from the Student Lounge on the 3rd floor of the JW Marriott. The pre-conference trip to San Antonio is a paid add-on to the conference. For those who have purchased a ticket, please meet in the lobby at8:30am on December 28th.

This year’s Beaux Arts Ball theme is black gold, so make sure to bring your best black and gold apparel! Beaux Arts Ball includes (1) drink ticket and will have a cash bar along with light snacks. Please note, that Honor Awards and COP Reception are both cash bars as well.

The FORUM Texas team is encouraging folks to dress casually, as Texas likes to keep it laid back. However, please consider a more professional outfit for the Expo and Firm Tours.

7. Outfit yourself in AIAS Swag

Extra holiday cash? Stop by STORUM to pick up your AIAS gear. STORUM will be open every day before the evening General Session from 3:30pm-4:30pm. If your chapter is interested in selling your chapter’s swag, there is still time! Email us at mailbox@aias.org for more information.

8. Be social

The AIAS FORUM Instagram and Facebook pages are great resources for important conference activities and fun.  We want to hear about your experience as well! Share with us your favorite parts of FORUM throughInstagramFacebook, & Twitter.

Don’t forget to tag @aiasorg and use the following hashtags — #AIASfrm17 #AIASFRM #FRMTX #FRM17 #forum2k17 #architectureconference #architecturestudents

Also, be sure to use our Snapchat filters at the following events: Opening Ceremonies, Honor Awards, Beaux Arts Ball, and Closing Ceremonies.

9. Stay hydrated and fed

With so much to do at AIAS FORUM, it can be easy to forget to eat or drink. Don’t worry, we’ve compiled a list of places that are top rated in the area:

Also, head on over to our website for discounts around the city, including discounts for hotel parking and restaurants!

10. In case you can’t make it

We get it, things come up! If you are unable to attend, be sure to fill out our Cancellation/Refund Request Form prior to January 12th. Keep in mind that there is a $50 administrative fee associated with refund process. Also, hotel reservationhttp://www.aias.org/events/forum-2017/s must be canceled 48 hours in advance of check-in to avoid a 1-night charge.