Board Blog: Seattle and the CBI National Student Electronic Media Convention

I could write about the nearly 100 sessions and events we are busy planning for the convention—as well as some of the great speakers that will be present sessions for you—but I am not going to do that. I could write about the awards programs and keynote speaker. Not going to do that either. I could mention all of the great networking opportunities and educational opportunities the event offers or about how you will come back with great ideas and feel energized, but I will resist the temptation.

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Will Robedee, CBI Executive Director

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Space Needle, photo by Jordon Kalilich, CC BY-SA 3.0.

Instead, I will focus on what Seattle has to offer. A lot of people think of music and the Space Needle when they think of Seattle, and they should. The music history of Seattle is well known, so I will not recount it for you, but rest assured the music scene in the city is still vibrant.

The Space Needle is a landmark that is readily recognizable and associated with Seattle. It was built in less than a year for the 1962 World’s Fair and engineered to withstand earthquakes of up to 9.1 magnitude. A sight to see for sure, but a little hint, there are some amazing views available in other locations (not to mention the location of the evening social event we have planned for you, which will be different this year).

Speaking of the Space needle and Music, adjacent to the space needle is the EMP Museum (formerly known as the Experience Music Project and Science Fiction Museum and Hall of Fame). The Museum hosts exhibits, interactive displays and educational material related to risk-taking ideas which influence contemporary pop culture. It also annually hosts an annual 21-and-under battle of the bands contest.

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EMP Museum, photo by Cacophony, CC BY-SA 3.0.

Both of these are located in Seattle Center, which also features museums, shopping, dining, artwork, gardens, theaters and venues.

The convention hotel is also located just blocks from Pike Place Market, and while you are there, do not miss the gum wall.

If, somehow, the Mariners make the World Series, Safeco is not an unreasonable distance from the hotel. If you arrive early or plan to stay an extra day, you might want to relax on the state-run ferry at an economical price with an opportunity to enjoy the views and visit another part of the area.

For the “more experienced” (ahem) advisers, you might enjoy a trip down memory lane with a visit to the Seattle Pinball Museum. Admission is a tad pricey, but play is free.

Of course Seattle has a lot more to offer so you should check out travel sites such as Yelp, Trip Adviser or the visit Seattle site among others to discover what Seattle has to offer to you for your pre- and post-convention activities. Along those lines, both students and advisers are well advised to make sure that the educational and networking opportunities offered at the convention are not missed because a member of your delegation becomes a tourist.

If you have thoughts about what sites are a must see, venues to visit, where to eat, etc. Please share. If you have tips to share about how to make sure those attending the convention actually attend the convention and bring back resources to your station to share with others, please share. I would like to use your comments as the basis of my next Board Blog post.

Finally, do not forget to submit your session proposals.[/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]