Pre Conference

Today was pre conference day. It’s the official start of Cisco Live. The Pre Conference day is for some of Cisco Live’s premium content and a great opportunity for you to get the lay of the land, pick-up your badge and materials. Since this was my very first time at the Orange County Convention Center I took full advantage and used today to get my bearings.

Badge Pickup

Of course before you can do anything you need to get your badge. Badge pick up was super easy using Cisco Events app. Grab the App from your favorite app store, launch the app and tap on Cisco Live 2018 in the list if events, and then login using your Cisco Live Credentials. On your profile page scroll to the bottom and tap the button with image of a 3D barcode that says “Scan to Check-In.” Wear your badge at all times whenever you’re on the CLUS campus, or attending a CLUS related event. Most importantly, don’t lose your badge because its $200 to replace it!

The Shirt

Every year an event specific shirt is handed out to all registered attendees. This year’s shirt has “Imagine” written in fun font and Intuitive. “Imagine Intuitive” is the slogan for CLUS 2018. And.. the shirt glows in the dark!

The Bag

In addition to the shirt a complimentary backpack is also given out. This year’s bag is really cool! It’s not just a backpack, it can also be converted to a duffle bag! The bag also sports this year’s slogan, Imagine Intuitive.

Certification Time!

I also took today to take my certification exam. The testing center is open all week long here. With lots of studying, and a little bit of luck from my t-shirt, I passed my exam! Good luck to everyone taking an exam this week!

Arrival Tweetup

The arrival Tweetup happens every year. It’s a great opportunity to connect with the Cisco Live Social Media team, and other attendees that like to engage on social media. Every year an annual group photo is taken. Make sure you stop by the social media hub and pick up a badge flag so your can display your Twitter handle on your CLUS badge.

Tomorrow…

Tomorrow is the big day! The opening Keynote is at 10:30AM EDT. We’ll get to hear from Cisco CEO, Chuck Robbins on some new and exciting things coming from Cisco. I’ll be blogging and posting on Twitter the latest news I hear as it happens or as soon as I possibly can. Stay tuned!