Jude Roust Gives Us A First Timer's View of the RNA Conference 2011

I finally plucked up enough courage to attend my first RNA Annual Conference. Not knowing quite what to expect I was a bit nervous at first. Would anyone talk to me? Would I end up wandering around on my own like Jilly-No-Mates? But I needn't have worried; Anna did a great job looking after her newbies and everyone was so friendly.

The en-suite bedrooms were basic, but that didn't matter as most of our free time was spent in the kitchen, chatting over a glass (or two) of wine. In our flat we had no hot water, so the cold shower when I was expecting a hot one was a bit of a shock. However, a quick word to Jan Jones in the morning and that problem was soon fixed.

There was another far more serious problem that nearly caused a riot. RNA members 'all glammed up and ready to party' turned up at the bar for pre-Gala Dinner drinks only to find it closed. At first I don't think I fully understood the severity of the situation, but having seen how much wine RNA people are capable of consuming, I now realise just how serious this was. Thankfully, yet again Jan came to the rescue - the bar was opened and order was restored. Phew!

The Gala Dinner was fabulous and it was lovely to have the opportunity to dress up. The food all weekend was so good I've probably put on half a stone!

I came away from my first conference with my head buzzing and a notebook full of useful information from all the brilliant talks that took place over the weekend. I made lots of new friends and caught up with some old ones. For anyone else unsure of whether to brave their first RNA conference, I say seize the opportunity and go. You won't regret it.