NACAC Conference - the best and busiest 3-day conference for any admission professional. It’s a combination of new learning, hope for the future, and friendships to last a lifetime.

Here are three takeaways from a first-time attendee at this year’s NACAC Conference-United We Rise!

1. Balance in the moment vs life

Our job can be very demanding- working evenings and weekends, answering emails left and right, and don’t forget the four students waiting for your response via text. Balancing your work and personal life can be hard! Try to balance both worlds in the moment or on a day-to-day basis versus life. Write a to-do list and stick with the schedule at hand. Prioritize what’s important to you that day. Give yourself grace! You are one person, and everything may not get done today.

2.  Following up is important

While each institution's follow-up procedures may differ, know that your students still appreciate the small gestures you make. Sending them a handwritten card after a visit or an email the next day shows you that you care! Congratulate them after receiving a big scholarship or making it to the state with their athletic team. The five minutes it takes you can be the difference between your school being their choice or not.

3.  Good Relationships + Good Morale = Great Results

You never know where your next role may come from. It’s essential to cultivate strong relationships with individuals outside of your institution. Talk with the table next to you at a College Fair. Attend an ACAC social after a long day on the road. These opportunities will help you, but won’t be everything. Remember to maintain a positive outlook on the profession. Yes, we all have a needy mom or dad calling us nonstop, or a student who wouldn’t text us, but remember to stay optimistic about them. The extra time you put in could lead to that deposit.

Remember, balance in the moment, follow up, positive relationships + morale = great results for you and your institution!