The National Broadcasting Society convention has just come and gone, but the experience and memories stay with you long after you’ve returned home. Like school, NBS offers both an educational and competitive environment, but can still be fun in between business. Here’s why every Communications student should attend NBS at least once.

Travel

NBS is held in a different city every year, so it’s a great opportunity to travel across the U.S. and add new states to your “visited” list. Last year’s convention was held in Atlanta; this year’s took us to Hollywood, so you never know where you might be headed next. NBS is typically held in a city with a large market – Los Angeles is the second largest market in the country, with New York City being number one – so you’re always in a good spot to network should you decide that you want to work in that area. Plus, there’s always time to see the sights (and eat the food). It’s almost exciting to find out where the convention will be held next. Whether you’re on spring break or skipping a few classes, NBS can be a fun getaway from your everyday school life – it’s what you make of the trip.

Network

Arguably the main purpose of the convention (aside from competition, if you choose to submit your work), NBS provides one of the best networking opportunities for college students. The convention is clearly targeted toward Communications majors, but there is still a variety of people from the industry to meet, whether you’re looking to get into writing, producing or directing. At the end of the first day is Career Focus, which is the convention’s main networking event. It’s like speed dating – only instead of meeting potential dates, you’re meeting potential employers! This year’s Career Focus event featured producers, production assistants, screenwriters, reporters and even representatives from Disney and Sony Pictures. Just make sure to bring resumes and business cards to hand out. There are also NBS members from other universities if you feel like mingling with them, too. You never know who you might land a job with following the convention.

Socialize

Despite the nature of the convention itself, the trip to NBS isn’t entirely business – you get to have some fun too! Chances are your school has an NBS chapter, so you’ll be attending the convention with a handful of your friends and peers. It’s a great chance to bond with people you don’t normally see outside of your campus media groups. You’ll be sharing a hotel room, eating, and exploring the city together, so you guys will be learning a lot about each other throughout the week. Most of the memories made at NBS are with your friends who came with you – and you’ll have plenty of Instagram pics to show for it. You’ll still be able to do your own thing, as people will be attending different panels (or not) depending on what they’re interested in, but there’s always someone to grab food or go out with later on.

NBS is a great trip, for both business and pleasure. Do it to travel, network and socialize. The national convention is worth the money, however much of it you’re paying.