I have this in my bio, right, "convention junkie." It's serious. Pre-pandemic I often did three conventions a year (sometimes more in an Intersteno year!). The past two years have made in-person conventioneering difficult do - we have mostly done remote sessions. Seeing a face via Zoom is better than not seeing anyone but I imagine most of us attending the VCRA convention in Lynchburg this week will be thrilled to not only be in person for the learning and networking but also for the hugs. Court reporters give GREAT hugs.
I'm looking forward to seeing my friends and colleagues, getting a bit of learning on, adding in a dash of partying (court reporters thrive at this part), and even - maybe - doing a decent transcription of the speed contest. But really, the main thing, is getting out and getting "back to normal" and seeing my friends and being able to catch up.
Happy conventioneering, y'all!
You all know I love giving back... and I've been speaking at the local law school for many years now, sharing with the students who will be future litigators how they can work WITH court reporters to create a truly excellent record.
I love doing this - and if you have the chance, please consider doing it in your area. The "baby" lawyers appreciated it and the next generation of court reporters will too!
We all love rituals - girls nights, massages, regular workouts... but what about our working rituals?
Do you have any that ease you into your productivity? Perhaps alleviate any anxiety?
Our job as a stenographer (or captioners) is filled with stressors and if we can develop rituals for ourselves to help limit those stresses, think how healthy, happy, and productive we can become?!
I love this profession... and I love sharing it. Wherever you are, in whatever period in your career you find yourself, be an amazing advocate! Introduce people to this incredible opportunity for someone who loves English, the law, computers, learning... Be the little pebble that creates the ripple in the pond!
