Clear your schedule and block off your calendar during conference dates and times (just like you would for an in-person event!) Other non-conference meetings are inevitable (just as they are when you are on-site at an event) but don’t worry, we’ll be recording all of the concurrent and general sessions for viewing after the event! Breakout room sessions are not being recorded.
Check out the conference program and prioritize which sessions you want to attend -- you may want to set calendar reminders for sessions
Minimize distractions — pick a quiet spot, turn off notifications on your devices and set a “do not disturb” on your email (and maybe your door)
Ensure you have the link from Zoom Events to join the conference. If you register before January 27, 2026, you will receive a link to the email address you registered with on January 28. Later registrants will receive a link no later than the morning of February 4.
Do a tech check — test your audio and ensure that you have a strong WiFi connection.
Pay attention to your background — turn on your camera and see what your background looks like; you may wish to adjust your angle or window shades if there is too much light
Share on social media that you’re attending the conference using the event hashtag #DTL26 — it’s a great way to connect with other attendees before the conference even starts
Keep your eye out for reminder emails from UPCEA and our platform, Zoom Events, with important access and other information
Make a list of your networking goals — in the virtual environment, you need to plan your networking since you can’t just bump into someone at the coffee station (think: “introduce myself to five new people”). You can connect with other attendees in sessions, chats, and the Networking area via the Event Lobby.
Have everything you need ready before you sign on — charger(s), headphones, notebook and pen, and (of course) water, coffee/tea, and snacks
Try not to multitask, and limit outside distractions so you don’t miss something important
Be an active participant and immerse yourself in the conference and content — take notes, ask questions, use the chat feature, and use the conference hashtag (#DTL26) on social media
Build your network — engage in conversation with other attendees in chats and messages, and join our networking events at the close of each day (and don’t forget to turn your camera on!)
Catch up with particularly engaged attendees — connect with them via the conference platform, or look them up on CORe or social media
Attending with colleagues? Share learnings during the conference or convene later as a group to share key takeaways and reinforce your knowledge
Need help? Email us at info@upcea.edu as well as call 202-659-3130 for any help! Staff also will be checking in on chats in the platform.
The event platform will allow for you to come back and revisit the conversations and sessions for 30 days following the event. After that, visit the resource library in CORe to download session slides and watch recordings
Replay or rewind it! Watch recorded sessions you may have missed
Share your learnings with colleagues and stay connected with other attendees in CORe and via social media
Speakers often provide their contact information on session slides — use it to continue the conversation after the event