Should you requested me how I used to be feeling on Thursday evening about attending DEF CON, I might have stated “nervous.” After every week of getting ready for and attending Black Hat — which I am used to, for essentially the most half — I wasn’t certain how totally different DEF CON could be or what to anticipate.
I might heard quite a bit. Swap your telephone off, do not take bank cards, depart your laptop computer behind …some individuals requested why I used to be staying, warned I might be exhausted, however assured me I might have enjoyable. And enjoyable was an understatement.
Having the ability to attend these occasions in particular person has massively helped me with confidence and “imposter syndrome.” This was talked about within the opening DEF CON speak on Friday, and I’ve heard so many ladies share an analogous fear. However in actuality, the cybersecurity group is various in its expertise. Though it could not at all times really feel this fashion, being in Las Vegas for Black Hat and DEF CON has proven me that every one you want is the passion to turn into an knowledgeable in your chosen specialty. With a group so prepared to share data, that is greater than sufficient. I need not know every thing, and I am making an attempt to cease myself from considering that.
As a lady in tech — in cybersecurity even, networking might be troublesome to navigate. Fortunately, I had essentially the most great expertise and genuinely cannot say that I have been to many different occasions (social, work, or in any other case) the place individuals are so type, welcoming, and keen to show and be taught.
I do know this expertise shouldn’t be the identical for all ladies attending, nevertheless it’s nice to see progress made and a zero-tolerance coverage towards sexual harassment from each DEF CON and Black Hat and the willingness to implement this. I used to be pleasantly stunned to make mates within the ladies’ restrooms (who would’ve thought it!) and hope to make many extra in years to come back.
So, what are my suggestions?
- Do not attempt to do an excessive amount of. There’s a lot to do and see and also you’re higher off taking your time to deal with the areas that curiosity you most. I spent most of my time within the IoT Village (I am all in regards to the issues) and Automotive Hacking Village. I missed a couple of that I needed to get to, however there’s at all times subsequent time!
- Save the talks for post-conference. A colleague gave me some nice recommendation to spend most of my time within the villages, because the talks are accessible after the occasion. Until you wish to attend a chat that is not recorded, or have some burning questions for the audio system, take advantage of strolling round and seeing all of the great issues the occasion has to supply within the flesh.
- Speak to individuals! It may be formidable to pluck up the braveness to say hello, however among the best issues about attending in-person occasions (particularly after COVID) is assembly others nose to nose. I assure you will be taught one thing new, and even make some new mates and connections.
