I initially found out about Conference four years ago. However, up until last year, attending it was something that seemed unachievable for me, until I found out about the Al D. Scholarship. I found applying for the scholarship to be an extremely nerve wracking experience. I just hoped that throughout the application process my hard work, dedication, and passion for the industry would show. I don’t think I’ll ever forget the moment I got the call from Kendra to say I made it. Achieving a place as a Scholar was definitely a career defining moment for me.

In the weeks leading up to Conference, I became extremely excited to meet all of the faces I had seen from the other side of a computer screen. I watched all of the training videos, attended meetings, and prepared myself for the tasks that were to be set for me as a Scholar. However, nothing could prepare me for what I was about to undertake.

Being a volunteer means you get to be part of this awesome group of people who accept you as if you have been part of Conference since day one. They accept you as one of their own and take care of you when you need it (and even if you don’t.) I have never met a group of people so willing to help others at the drop of a hat. The selflessness of the volunteers is astounding and I am already counting down the days until I get to see them again.

There are numerous things that happened during my time at Conference that I won’t forget: the myriad of information during classes, meeting some of the piercers whose work I admire, volunteer dinner, and the extremely loud singing on the way (I’m sure the other passengers on the bus were delighted by our dulcet tones!) Yet, one of the most overwhelming and emotional moments for me was having my name called out at Banquet. It made me feel privileged to stand up in front of my peers, knowing that we are all striving to make our industry a better place and that all of the hard work during the application process had been worth it.

I am really happy that I pushed myself out of my comfort zone and applied for the scholarship. It was definitely worth all of the stress I put myself under. If asked if I would do it again I would, without a second thought. Since coming back from Conference I have faced my work with a renewed energy and I am counting down the days until next year. Thank you to everyone I met during my week for making my experience great, but especially Caitlin, Kendra, and Ryan for allowing me to be part of it.

“I’m too inexperienced, too small, too far away. Let’s attend in the future, when I’m more experienced. Why should I attend now?” Thoughts that have frequently gone through my head. I was second guessing myself all the time; doubt all over. It wasn’t until after a conversation with Shorty; he convinced me to go, with just one single question: “Do you want to improve?” Of course I do! “Then sign up,” he said and so I did. Two days before the deadline with the thought, “at least I tried.” I’m happy I did, because I got through!

I drove to the airport, slightly fearful of going on a trip this far alone and not knowing what to expect, but there was no need to be worried. I arrived safe and sound at Bally’s Hotel and it felt like home right from the start. It’s just so great to see people from all over the world, with the same passion for piercing and the same purpose to attend—to teach and learn.

Everyone was super friendly and showed true interest in one another, all open for a chat or a hug. It is the place to network, make friends, have fun, and have a drink or two. Just by having conversations with others, you will learn new things, get new ideas, or get the advice you were looking for. In one week you will increase your knowledge and expand your view on things.

The classes were great and interesting. Being a volunteer, I also had the chance to see what goes on back-stage, how truly amazing it is to see so many people working together to make this Conference happen. Without them, this wouldn’t be possible!

I’m so glad I applied for the Al D. Scholarship. I’ve grown in so many aspects, professionally and personally. Not only did I learn a lot, but I also made new friends. I have a new family now. I can proudly say, I’ve been there and hell yes, I’ll be back again as a volunteer!

So, if you are like me—second guessing if you should go, because you feel like you don’t have the experience or own a small studio—just ask yourself one thing. Do you want to improve?