WASFAA 99 Through a New Set of Eyes
by Vicky Cabezas, California State University, Long Beach

Sand, ocean, and pleasant spring weather were the backdrop for the 30th Anniversary of the Western Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (WASFAA) Conference which took place in San Diego, California, April 26-28, 1999. Add to the surroundings a few hundred of your closest friends and we have a delightful celebration. This WASFAA Conference created an atmosphere for career and personal development. Sharing, learning and laughing were enjoyed by those in attendance.

As for me, it was thanks to the Ethnic Diversity Action Committee that I was able to attend my first WASFAA Conference. My first day was booked with a quick morning workout, Newcomers' Orientation, Fun in Cooking, Opening Session, Tools for Effective Decision Making and a little Flamenco Dancing at night. There were so many interesting things taking place throughout the conference that everywhere I turned there was an opportunity to learn. One highlight for me was meeting Dee Dee Myers, political editor to Vanity Fair Magazine. She was a charismatic speaker and has several volumes of information regarding events and people in Washington D.C. After experiencing her speech, I was inspired and left with only one question - Al who? (Al Roker, Today Show Weatherman and Feature Reporter, was scheduled to give the keynote address and was unable to make it due to a scheduling conflict.)

My second day at the conference started with lots of positive energy. Yoga brought balance to the beginning of a busy day. The exhibit area was a definite mingle spot. This conference begs for a twin to be cloned for everyone involved. There is so much to do. It was hard to decide what sessions to attend. I was definitely torn. The sessions were informative and dealt with current issues.

By lunchtime, I was ready for our feature speaker, Gwendolyn Dungy, executive director, National Association of Student Personnel Administrators. She shared an interesting story about adapting to change. I learned that someone is always going to move my cheese; therefore, I must be prepared to adapt. I have leaned that change is a constant in a Financial Aid Administrator's life.

The WASFAA 1999 Conference gave me many new friends, knowledge and a fun time. I was energized and inspired. Unfortunately, just as quickly as it started, the conference came to an end. A short train ride and several days later, I was back in my office ready to help students and happy to be a financial aid counselor.