MEMOIRS OF A NEWCOMER
by Kim Brandt, Boise State University

Having been a financial aid counselor for some seven or so years, I fully expected the 1999 WASFAA conference to be a fun, but not so "new" experience. Never mind the fact that - in spite of my involvement in three state organizations within WASFAA (Arizona, Oregon and currently Idaho) - I had never experienced an actual WASFAA conference. Was I in for a surprise? Yes!

My campaign to attend WASFAA began early last fall, as my co-workers Barb Alm and Lois Kelly in the Boise State University office can attest. The conversations began with subtle questions, "So, what is the office's philosophy on staff attending professional conferences?" Thankfully, I soon found that support of professional development runs pretty rampant in this office. I was on my way to sunny (huh?) San Diego.

I soon realized one thing upon my arrival at Paradise Point Resort. While being whisked away to my room in a racing golf cart, this was to be no ordinary conference and certainly no mundane location. I really shouldn't go any further without extending hearty congratulations to the conference site selection and planning committees. Well done, well done!!

Aside from re-establishing many old acquaintances from Arizona and Oregon, the conference provided the opportunity to meet and collaborate with new colleagues. I will be forever grateful for this. I am a firm believer that with each person you meet, something new is added to who you are. My first session, a "Fun With Cooking" workshop, was an absolutely delightful introduction to Japanese cooking. I am sure that something about sushi rice is cited in the regs somewhere.

I can say without hesitation, however, that the session that touched me most (both personally and professionally) was the ethnic diversity exercise. For one brief period of time, I participated in an activity as an African-American. The dialogue and the passion surrounding the discussion in this session touched the very core of who I am, and who the people around me are. For those that participated, you have made a difference. For those who did not, seek out the opportunity to open your eyes and your hearts to the differences AND the similarities of those around you.

Little needs to be said about the social activities. They were fantastic. I never appreciated Polynesian dancing so much. Ted and Chuck - you can bust a move like no one I've ever seen. Things that make you go hmmm....

Truth be told, the most important thing I brought home from the conference - aside from this year's supply of Post-it notes, pens and those cool bendy things - was the affirmation that we are a wonderful group of people. We are diverse, we are committed, we care, and most importantly, we want to make a difference in the lives of those we work with. My hats off to you my friends - you are GOOD PEOPLE!