I have also lost my virginity (and you should too)
UPDATE: I have lost my virginity in regards to attending my first software conference, just in case that wasn’t clear… you know who I am talking to.
I just read Brian Mavity’s latest post and am obviously rowing the same proverbial boat that he is. This is not only my first software development conference but the first software development conference our company has ever sent anybody to. I personally have already taken more away from this than I ever imagined. Just sitting around at dinner or socializing with the same people whose blogs I follow is somewhat intimidating, but they are all very welcoming and want to help us new guys get going. I have had conversations (okay, mostly absorbing) with Ayende, Chad Myers, and Jeremy Miller. I have also been able to speak one on one with others and will most definitely get the opportunity to do some more.
Same as Brian Mavity, if you your company does not care enough about their development team to spare a little time and money to get you involved, you should consider finding a place that does or making your voice heard better to accomplish this.
I am really looking forward to the next few days worth of activities.
Highly disturbing image