Lessons Learned from the Community Frontline

How I managed to survive my first Drupalcon adventure

This week, I attended my first full-tilt Drupalcon conference in Boston, MA. I suppose I thought I was ready for this simply because I'd attended a 'Camp or two, but I wasn't prepared for the ensuing melee of the code-head throngs. I don't think there is any amount of reading material that can prepare you for the jolt of standing next to an idol who's coding skill, drive to succeed at their art no matter the compensation, and approachability are all without question, even as you realize the person to your idol's left is looking at you in the very same way. Sobering, to be sure, but still quite a shock. I suppose this experience is the very reason for planning such a large gathering of eight hundred inspired professionals in the first place, and if that's the case, may the Drupalcon Adventure never cease to exist.