![\"WordCamp](\"https:\/\/2017.rhodeisland.wordcamp.org\/files\/2017\/07\/wcri-social-generic-300x300.jpg\")
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Joy Adamonis has stepped up to be the Lead Organizer for WordCamp RI 2017.\u00a0 Joy has been to many WordCamps both as an attendee and as an organizer.\u00a0 She shares her WordPress philosophy with us.<\/p>\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Joy Adamonis has stepped up to be the Lead Organizer for WordCamp RI 2017.\u00a0 Joy has been to many WordCamps both as an attendee and as an organizer.\u00a0 She shares her WordPress philosophy with us.<\/p>\n
Q-
\nWhat is your vision for this year’s WordCamp RI?
\nA-
\nMy vision for this year’s WordCamp RI might sound odd. But my vision has a great deal to with CHANGE. \u00a0CHANGE IS GOOD! Change is something we all like to fight (some of us anyway). Through these changes, I am aiming for a larger crowd, different schedule setup (but easier to navigate) and even the social aspect of WordCamp will be different this year. I think when we as individuals get out of our comfort zone and experience change, we grow and flourish. Isn\u2019t that what WordCamps are ultimately about? Learning and growing with the changing of the tides (or should I say WordPress). I’m hoping the attendees will be pleased with the changes this year!<\/p>\n
Q-
\nHow do you use WordPress?
\nA-
\nI use WordPress for my own personal use, on my blog as well as in my freelance business! I love to help small businesses and local bloggers reach new heights with WordPress!<\/p>\n
Q-
\nAt the end of\u00a0two days, if an attendee wants, they can end WordCamp RI having created a WordPress website or blog. \u00a0If they have coding skills, they can walk out with a custom made application, unique to their website. \u00a0How are these very different needs met?
\nA-
\nThrough tailored workshops and talks! Depending on your needs, you can pick and choose what you do, learn, hear and can really customize your WordCamp experience. Also, the Happiness Bar is a great resource as well! Many attendees have left with new plugins and widgets just from a 15-minute session with a someone in the Happiness Bar!<\/p>\n
Q-
\nLet’s break it down. \u00a0What are the best ways attendees can get something out of each aspect of WordCamp RI?
\nThe sessions and workshops?
\nA-
\nThis is where you can customize your day. Don\u2019t forget each session will be aired on WordPress.tv about 3 weeks after the event!<\/p>\n
Q-
\nThe Happiness Bar (which is what the Help Desk is called)?
\nA-
\nDon\u2019t find a talk that covers what you are looking for? The Happiness Bar is the perfect opportunity to ask your question!<\/p>\n
Q-
\nThe Friday night reception?
\nA-
\nThe Welcome Soiree is the perfect chance to meet, mingle and chat with other like-minded individuals. \u00a0 Not only is a perfect place to talk business & WordPress, but the food, drinks and atmosphere aren\u2019t too shabby either!<\/p>\n
Q-
\nWhat supplies does an attendee need at WordCamp?
\nA-
\nTo truly benefit from WordCamp, each WordCamper must bring these 3 things (IMO).<\/p>\n
Of course, a laptop & business cards are a plus as well! But if you have those three things covered, you will be fine!<\/p>\n
Q-
\nEarlier we talked about the reception. \u00a0There’s good food, which is reason enough for a reception! \u00a0But what other role does the reception play? \u00a0Why is it part of WordCamp RI?
\nA-
\nThe party is my favorite part of WordCamps! Always has been! In the past we have done the social networking party on the last night of the WordCamp, but this year, like I mentioned before, we are changing it up. Even though the day-to-day schedule of WordCamps is very laidback, there is something to be said about mingling, drinking and being in a causal setting after a day of learning. Planning the party is my favorite because I know how much networking actually goes on at these things. People recognize other attendees, have a chance to go up to their favorite speaker, brainstorm ideas with a fellow WordPresser\u2026 I just love being able to create that environment for the attendees. Everyone has a great time!<\/p>\n
Q-
\nWhy is NEIT such a good location for WordCampRI?
\nA-
\nNEIT is a great location. Our third year back and we couldn\u2019t be more thrilled. They value technology and our mission and this is something I take great pride in. They are going through some major changes this year and our attendees will be privy to them!\u00a0We decided to stay with NEIT amidst these changes because we feel that NEIT is the perfect location for us. They are welcoming and eager to help. Their space is top notch and their campus offers everything we need and more.<\/p>\n
Q-
\nYou’ve attended other WordCamps all over. \u00a0What is the same about every WordCamp and what are some of the unique features you’ve seen?
\nA-
\nI don\u2019t think \u00a0I have been to a WordCamp that is the same each year or the same as its counterpart. I think that is a big reason why I wanted to change things up this year with WordCamp RI. It is our 6th year, and although we have had some minor differences from year to year, I felt like we might have been getting stagnant. I wanted to color outside the lines a bit. See who is paying attention if you will. \u00a0I think this year we will stand out for sure!<\/p>\n
Q-
\nDo you have any favorite memories from past WordCamp RIs?
\nA-
\nI just love it all. It is so hectic and busy the week of WordCamp and I thrive on challenges. Trust me, there is always a challenge each day leading up to WordCamp. I love hearing the conversations about how much they learned, how we went above and beyond with food allergies, how much fun they had at the party, etc\u2026 I just love it all\u2026<\/p>\n
Q-
\nWhat else would you like to add?
\nA-
\nThis year has already had its fair share of challenges when it comes to planning. With that said, I never for one second regret taking on the roll of Lead Organizer. This year has taught me so much. \u00a0With less than 2 months to go, I still have so much to learn and DO! Sometimes things happen for a reason. With every challenge I face and solution I find, I vow to make WordCamp RI 2017 even better. \u00a0See you in September!<\/p>\n