ASA International conference 2023 recap
What an extraordinary event! It marked my inaugural experience at an in-person International Conference, and it absolutely lived up to my expectations. The turnout was impressive, with reports of over eight hundred attendees. It was a delight to interact with numerous ASAs not only from the Real Property discipline but also from diverse fields such as Business Valuation, Personal Property, and more. One particularly memorable encounter was with an individual who exclusively appraises helicopters – a fascinating specialization indeed!
Regarding the Real Property meetings, the agenda was stellar. On Saturday, September 30th, we had an Instructors Course that was well worth the effort of arriving a day early. Seasoned instructors shared invaluable tips and tricks accumulated over decades of teaching. The Education Committee has some exciting initiatives on the horizon. The actual conference on Sunday, October 1st, began later in the day for me. During breakfast, I noticed a sea of New Orleans Saints jerseys, and it dawned on me that the hotel was just a mile away from the Superdome, where the Saints were playing against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. A quick check on StubHub revealed a few excellent seats still available. I seized the opportunity to walk over and immerse myself in the game, an experience I wouldn't have had if I had attended the conference virtually.
Monday, October 2, marked the official start of the conference, and the following two days were filled with a plethora of courses and, most importantly, opportunities to network. I deeply appreciated the wisdom and experience of those who have dedicated decades to their respective fields. Their stories and insights were truly inspiring. The diverse course offerings were not only informative but also facilitated engaging discussions with participants, further enriching the learning experience. Yet, as beneficial as the courses were, it was the networking that left a lasting impression. I had the privilege of meeting Chief Appraisers, ASA Chapter Presidents, and fellow professionals who are wholeheartedly dedicated to excellence in their work.
Overall, this time away from my family was a refreshing and motivating professional experience. In a world marked by uncertainty and economic challenges, it became evident that I am walking in the footsteps of excellence. The appraisal industry stalwarts who paved the way before us have created a supportive and promising environment for professional growth and opportunity.