We asked, AU alumni answered

Maybe this is your first time attending AU Las Vegas, or maybe you’ve been there and done that many times over. (If it’s your first time, check out last week’s post and be sure to sign up for Freshman Orientation—Lynn Allen and other AU old hands will give you inside info on what not to miss, and you’ll get to connect with fellow freshman even before classes start.) Either way, to ensure you get the most out of your week with us, we asked AU veterans to tell us 1 thing about AU that only alumni know. Here’s the scoop.

Matt Wunch advises, “If you get a chance, scope out the area early. Get familiar with the layout and where your classes are. It’s a BIG place!”

@autodesku If you stay up late, then fall asleep in class, we take your picture and send it to your boss.

— Rogsternation (@Rogsternation) October 5, 2015

Jim Swain suggests, “Whenever possible, attend a particularly critical class with a friend or colleague. This will help you catch everything that’s said and understand how it could affect your specific application. Then quickly figure out your questions and follow up with the speaker… As a speaker, I ask: Please give us a chance to pack up our gear and let the next speaker set up. Arrange to meet afterwards in 1 of the discussion lounges.”

Donnia Tabor-Hanson says, “Stop by the AUGI booth! Also, take all you will need for the day because you really can’t just “run back to my room for…‘whatever’.”

@autodesku Take A LOT of notes. Don't assume you'll remember any of it. Write it down.

— Bill Adams (@blads) October 5, 2015

Paul Munford offers this advice: “Go outside!”

@autodesku In the Exhibit Hall, if it is free, people will take it no matter what it is. Remember the bandanas?

— Greg Battin (@AutoCADTips1) October 6, 2015

Chris Benner says you should “Take at least 1 class outside of your path, learn something new just for the fun of it. Take notes, take pictures, use the app, and follow #AU2015 on Twitter.”

@autodesku If you want a class that is "full" just hang out by the door. Most will let additional people just sit in and learn....

— Mark Behrens (@cadman_99) October 5, 2015

Lydia Cline advises, “Bring your tablet and install the AU app. If a class doesn’t meet your expectations, you can quickly scan the schedule to see what else is nearby.”

@autodesku Stay at "The Venetian" if you want to enjoy more time at Autodesk University & make sure you have a portable charger for your phone

— Kevin S (@bham4ever) October 6, 2015

Todd Schuler says, “Network. You never know who you will meet or how much they can impact your week, career, or company.”

@autodesku Chapstick is your best friend, next to your jacket or sweater!

— Steven Shell (@shellshockrocks) October 6, 2015

Alan Grant says simply, “It’s worth it.”

Christy Baxter offers this list:
1) Wear comfortable shoes. My first AU all I had was heels. After the first day, I bought some comfortable sneakers.
2) There are always shorter restroom lines for us gals than the guys.
3) All you need is a good tablet or smart phone; don’t lug a laptop around all day.
4) Carry recharging blocks for your devices.
5) Look for a person with a mentor badge and stay with them.
6) Most importantly, HAVE FUN and NETWORK!!!

Check out Melanie Stone Perry’s AU Survival Guide for more great insight, garnered from her many years of attending and speaking at AU. Her #1 tip?
“The importance of comfy shoes and proper hydration cannot be overstated!”

@autodesku Walking, walking, walking, and more walking. Wear your Fitbit and be amazed.

— R.K. McSwain (@cadpanacea) October 6, 2015