Attending Cisco Live 2023 was a truly exceptional experience that left me inspired and exhilarated. The event offered a plethora of amazing sessions, opportunities to reunite with colleagues and friends, and exciting giveaways. As a massive IT conference featuring countless sessions on diverse topics and a vast range of solutions presented by vendors, it provided me with valuable insights during my first-ever in-person event all thanks to Helient’s support. Let’s delve into my experience in more detail, starting right from the beginning.
Unforgettable Connections and Inspiration
Stepping into the vibrant atmosphere of Cisco Live 2023, I was immediately surrounded by bright lights and an electrifying energy. It was surreal to finally meet so many great friends I had connected with throughout the IT community, but it was even more incredible to connect with them on an entirely different level.
From the man himself, David Bombal, to Duan Lightfoot of the LabEveryday community, spending the week interacting and chatting with these industry experts was an experience unlike any other. I am genuinely grateful for the knowledge they shared and the inspiration they instilled in me, which I will take back with me to share with my colleagues.
Exploring the World of Solutions and Certifications
One of the major highlights for me was getting the chance to explore The World of Solutions. It was like stepping into a technological wonderland, with an entire show floor filled with some of the most significant vendors in the industry. From Panduit, Path Solutions, and BackBox to personal favorites like Opengear, the vendor list seemed endless. Each booth showcased innovative solutions that had the potential to simplify our day-to-day lives. While I unfortunately missed out on the highly anticipated whisper suites that showcased Cisco’s newest technology, it’s already at the top of my list for next year.
Another invaluable opportunity presented by Cisco Live was the chance to take certification exams. I attempted my CCNA certification, but I didn’t pass. However, this experience provided me with a phenomenal baseline, helping me identify areas where I fell short and indicating what I need to focus on for my next attempt. It’s a reminder that continuous learning is a vital part of professional growth.
Preparing for the Journey
One thing I didn’t anticipate for my first Cisco Live event was the amount of walking involved. It turned out to be quite a hike! So, my newly learned advice for future attendees is to pack comfortable shoes and bring a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the event. These small preparations can make a significant difference in your overall experience.
Scheduling Sessions in Advance
In the weeks leading up to the event, I learned the importance of booking sessions in advance through the attendee resource center. These sessions tend to fill up quickly, so planning ahead ensures you don’t miss out on the ones you’re most interested in. This leaves ample time to explore the World of Solutions, socialize with fellow attendees, and take advantage of the opportunity to book a free certification exam. In my upcoming posts, I’ll highlight some standout sessions that I can’t wait to share, so stay tuned for more insights.
An Unforgettable Event
Between the engaging sessions, lively parties, and even performances by the talented Gwen Stefani & Blake Shelton, Cisco Live 2023 was nothing short of spectacular. Yet, we have only scratched the surface of my incredible Cisco Live adventure. I am excited to share more of my experiences and insights with you in the next piece. I also wanted to take the opportunity to thank my entire team at Helient for sponsoring my journey and supporting me at every opportunity! Until then, stay safe, and I’ll see you soon!
Best Regards,
Girard
TechHouse570 
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