First Time at Congress

First Time at Congress

Get tips to maximize your first Critical Care Congress experience.

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Tips to Maximize Your First Congress Experience

  • Plan Ahead: Read the Congress attendee details and download the SCCM Events app to create your schedule.
  • Dress Appropriately: There is no dress code for Congress. Most attendees wear business casual. Bring a light jacket or sweater for cool rooms. 
  • Arrive Early: Get settled, find your way around, and avoid long lines. Registration is available in the West Hall C Lobby of the Orange County Convention Center and the main lobby at the Hyatt Regency Orlando. View hours. Arriving early gives you time to network and check out the Break the Ice: First-Time Congress Attendee Gathering on Saturday.
  • Pack Essentials: Bring a water bottle, laptop, and phone charger. Free coffee is available in Max's Cafe. The Orange County Convention Center is cashless so bring a credit card. 
  • Prioritize Your Time: You don’t have to attend every session—Congress Digital gives you access to session recordings. Focus on live events, networking, and interactive experiences while you're on site!
  • Make Connections: Say hello! Introduce yourself, start conversations, and join must-attend events listed below. Networking is one of the most valuable aspects of attending Congress.
  • Stay Engaged: Take notes, ask questions, and engage with the speakers to get the most out of the event.
  • Take Breaks: Stretch your legs and walk through Connections Central (Exhibit Hall). Stop by SCCM Central to spin the wheel for a gift! 
  • Follow Up: Send a quick email, connect on SCCM Connect or social media, or message fellow attendees via the Congress website or app.
  • Have Fun: Enjoy learning, meeting new people, and explore discounts and special offers

First-Timer Infographic

Get more tips to make this your best conference experience!
Download the First-Timer Infographic 

Make Sure to Attend These Events!

Break the Ice: First-Time Congress Attendee Gathering

Connect with other first-time attendees, receive tips on making the most of your Congress experience, enjoy light refreshments, and engage with leaders from various professions and backgrounds.

Saturday, February 22, 2025

5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Eastern Time

Orange County Convention Center
W209BC

First-Time Attendees: Insights and Highlights

Continue the conversation from Break the Ice: First-Time Congress Attendee Gathering. Attendees will rotate among tables in short intervals, discussing industry trends or conference highlights with peers.

Sunday, February 23, 2025

2:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time

Orange County Convention Center
W312AB

Early-Career Professionals Reception

Early-career professionals, including residents, fellows, postdoctoral researchers, clinicians in training, and early-career faculty, are invited to network and mingle with peers and those established in their careers. Prominent members and leaders from SCCM specialty sections, chapters, and knowledge education groups will be on hand.

Monday, February 24, 2025

5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Eastern Time

Hyatt Regency Orlando
Barrel Spring

Morning Mingle and Takeaways

A casual wrap-up event with a focus on reflection and connection.

Tuesday, February 25, 2025

9:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. Eastern Time

Orange County Convention Center
Max's Cafe, West Hall C Lobby

More Resources for First Timers

Break the Ice at Congress Blog

Break the Ice at Congress Blog

Hear first-hand experiences from those who attended last year’s event.

First-Timer Infographic

First-Timer Infographic

More tips to make this your best conference experience!

Networking Tips Sheet

Networking Tips Sheet

Congress is about connection! Get tips on how to enhance your communication skills, identify collaborators, more.

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