What's Up Freshmen - Let's Talk IC!

If you're reading this, it probably means you are curious about your first IC! This is huge, and IC is a lot, but in the best way. It’s always hype, exciting, meaningful, chaotic, and unforgettable, sometimes all at once. As someone who has been there, done that, I just want you to know that we are so happy to have you here. 

Here is some of the best advice I can give you before you walk into a convention center with 4,000 people.

1. Pace yourself- IC is nonstop. There’s always something happening, somewhere to be, and someone to see. If you need a break, take one. Sit down. Eat some food or drink some water. You don't need to be “on” every second to have a great experience. 
2. Go to programming - Even if you don't know anyone. Walking into a room alone can feel awkward, but almost everyone is doing the same thing. People go into IC to make friends. Sit next to someone new. Say hi first. Try the program YOU’RE curious about. Some of the best moments in BBYO start with “I didn't know anyone when I walked in.”
3. Ask for help when you need it. If you’re lost, confused, overwhelmed, or just not sure what you’re supposed to be doing, ask. Look for someone in a vest, stop by the welcome center, or reach out to one of your freshmen experience captains. We’re all here to help. That’s our job. No one expects you to know everything, trust. 
4. Fuel your body. You’re in a convention center with 4000 teens. You’re walking everywhere, yelling, chanting, staying up late, and running on adrenaline. Drink water. Eat something. Trust me. Bring a refillable water bottle, some snacks, and maybe liquid IV or vitamin C if that’s your thing. Your body will thank you after IC, I promise. 
5. Bring money for shuk. The shuk is great. Regions are selling merch and random objects that you will hold long after IC is over. Don’t miss out because you forgot to bring a few extra dollars.
6. Check the schedule, but don’t stress about it. Know where you’re supposed to be, but also don’t freak out if plans change. Some of the best IC memories happen when you end up somewhere you didn’t plan on being.
7. Take pictures, but don’t live on your phone. Take photos. Capture the moments. Then put your phone away sometimes. Be present. Sing loudly. Cheer hard. The best memories aren’t always the ones in your camera roll.
8. Explore everything IC has to offer. You can’t do everything, and that’s OK. Go to a service or check out a program you didn’t expect to love, and talk to people from other regions. IC is more than one event. It’s a whole experience.
9. Go to the freshman-only meals. Seriously, go. It’s just for freshmen, and it’s a chance to slow down, reflect, and realize you’re not alone and how you’re feeling. You’ll leave feeling more connected than when you walked in.
10. Most importantly, have fun. This is your IC. Your start. Your first international BBYO experience. Be yourself. Be open. Let it be messy and fun and meaningful all at once.

Have a blast because I know you will.