CISG-PCMG23 Reflections - Jessica Nelson

Jessica Nelson, Analyst Programmer at Queen's University Belfast reflects on her experience at CISG-PCMG23.

04 December 2023 - CISG-PCMG23 Reflections - Jessica Nelson

In November, I had the opportunity to attend the UCISA CISG-PCMG23 conference through the PlusOne Bursary Scheme. I was genuinely thrilled about attending the conference and there were several aspects that I was eagerly looking forward to. Firstly, I was excited about the opportunity to engage with fellow professionals in the field. Networking is a valuable avenue for knowledge exchange and idea-sharing, and I looked forward to establishing connections with like-minded individuals. Additionally, I had high expectations for the diverse range of sessions and workshops offered at the conference. I couldn't wait to hear from experts in the field and learn about the latest trends and advancements in digital transformation from other universities. I was also keen on exploring the exhibition area, as it provided a first-hand experience of the latest technologies and innovative solutions.

My initial impressions were truly exceptional. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted by a dynamic and vibrant atmosphere brimming with enthusiasm. The conference venue itself was impeccably organized, providing a conducive environment for learning and networking.

As I navigated through the conference, I was struck by the remarkable level of professionalism and expertise exhibited by the speakers and presenters. The speaker from Amazon, was fantastic. Their presentation was not only informative but also incredibly inspiring. They had a way of captivating the audience with their words and leaving us eager to learn more. It was the perfect way to kick off the conference and set the bar high for the rest of the sessions. The sessions and workshops were incredibly informative and engaging, covering a diverse range of topics that were highly relevant to my field. I was particularly impressed by the diversity of perspectives and the depth of knowledge shared by the speakers. I attended sessions on a wide range of topics, from project management to cybersecurity, and each one offered valuable insights and practical takeaways.

One thing that really stood out to me was the sense of community. Everyone was so friendly and welcoming, and it created a supportive environment where I felt comfortable asking questions and participating in discussions. The organizers did an excellent job of fostering collaboration and creating a space where everyone's voice was heard. It was refreshing to see everyone actively participating and sharing their experiences. I even had the opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals and expand my network.

The biggest takeaways was the opportunity to connect and network with professionals from various universities and IT backgrounds. The event brought together a diverse group of experts, and I was able to make some great connections, exchange ideas, and learn from their experiences. Another major takeaway was the exposure to the latest trends and advancements in the IT industry. I gained valuable insights into emerging technologies and how they can be leveraged to drive innovation and efficiency in organizations. Attending this conference provided me with a wealth of best practices and strategies that I can apply to my own work. From project management methodologies to IT governance frameworks, I learned practical tips and techniques that can help me navigate complex IT challenges and deliver successful outcomes.

Overall, my experience at the UCISA CISG-PCMG23 conference was incredibly valuable. It exceeded my expectations in terms of the quality of content, the level of expertise, and the networking opportunities. I left the conference feeling inspired, motivated, and armed with new knowledge and connections that will undoubtedly benefit my career.