First Time Attendee Orientation with Jolie Stekly

The wonderful Jolie Stekly welcomed new attendees (and some return birds) to our annual conference in Los Angeles.

Photo: Attendees at the orientation
session run by Jolie Stekly.

We spent a bit of time getting to know each other, celebrating people who traveled internationally, people who write, people who illustrate, people who have debut books coming out, and people who had the guts to come here without knowing a single soul.

"I think you're so brave," Jolie said. "I would not have done this in 2001 when I joined this organization." 

There are more than 25,000 members of the SCBWI worldwide, making it the largest organization of its kind in the world. People wearing red lanyards can answer your questions; they are all conference volunteers.

She had some great advice for attendees, especially first-timers: 

• Be yourself. Your authentic self is the best thing you have to offer, and there is room for everyone here.
• You can set yourself up for success by having realistic expectations. What's something you can accomplish this weekend?
• Keep track of your information packet. You're going to need it!

For more about Jolie, who is a writing teacher and coach, visit her website, and follow her on Twitter and Instagram.