Know Before You Go
Insider Tips for Getting the Most Out of AIAS Grassroots.
In a little less than a week, we will be seeing you in Washington, DC! We’ve compiled a list of reminders and tips so that you are prepared for the most awesome AIAS Grassroots yet.
1. What to Pack
- Sketchbook
- Pen/Pencils
- Laptop + Charger
- Business cards
- Portfolio + Resume
- Comfortable Footwear
- Dress Code: Smart Casual
2. Download the Bizzabo App
This year, everything has been digitalized! Download the Bizzabo app and join the community to manage your schedule, navigate the conference, and stay up-to-date on everything Grassroots related.
3. Getting Around DC
One of the easiest ways to travel around our nation’s capital is by Metro. Make sure to check out the WMATA’s interactive metro map.
4. Be Social
The AIAS Instagram page is a great resource for important conference activities and fun. We want to hear about your experience as well! Share with us your favorite parts of Grassroots by tagging us on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.
Don’t forget to use the following hashtags — #AIASgr18 #successseekers #
5. Roll Call
This is your time to showcase the character of your chapter! If you plan on having video or music, please try to touch base with Executive Director, Nick Serfass, so that he can load your video onto our system in advance. Roll call will be held as follows:
– Friday morning General Session: Midwest & South Quads
– Saturday morning General Session: Northeast & West Quads
– Saturday afternoon General Session: International Roll Call
6. Session Reminder
This is a gentle reminder that all sessions are first come, first serve. If you are interested in a particular session, be sure to get there 15 minutes prior. The maximum amount of seating in most sessions is 50 registrants.
7. Workshops Reminder
This is a gentle reminder that attendees will not have wifi in the meeting space, so please make sure to download the trial/student versions of the software if you are planning to attend any Workshops (download the Vectorworks Free Student version here).
8. Visiting the Capitol?
If you registered for this year’s Capitol Center Visitors Tour, please be sure that you are at the registration desk by 10:45 am on Thursday, July 19th. Not sure what you are allowed to bring? Make sure to review the prohibited item list prior to going.
9. How to CoP
In order to help you prepare for our upcoming CoP meeting at Grassroots, our outgoing National President Keshika de Saram has eloquently illustrated everything that you need to know in a handy“How to Participate in the Council of Presidents” video.
10. Quad Reception Locations
FOX Architects will host Northeast Quad
HKS, Inc will host Midwest Quad
SmithGroup will host South Quad
Quinn Evans Architects will host West Quad
11. Get a Free Headshot
There will be a headshot photo booth that is completely FREE at this year’s Grassroots! Make sure to take advantage of this sweet deal… Professional headshots normally cost $50-$100.
Photo Booth Hours – All networking breaks and lunch!
12. Vote for Your Favorite #ElevateYourPitch Finalist
The finalists for the #ElevateYourPitch competition have been selected! Vote for your favorite by selecting thumbs up on one of the four videos listed in the playlist here. Winners will be announced at Grassroots!
13. Visit the AIA Student Lounge
This year, the AIA has generously offered to sponsor the student lounge. Stop by during networking breaks for coffee, talk with the AIA Emerging Professionals, or hang out in the evenings with your new friends and stream movies with the provided projector and screen. The student lounge is open 24/7!
14. 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 August 5th. Keep in mind that there is a $50 administrative fee associated with refund process.
