Conference Tips for TSA Members:

Will this be your first TSA conference, or are you an old pro? Here are some things for you to remember when preparing for your TSA events:

1. READ THE RULES very carefully! Every TSA judge can tell you a story about a student who had a rules violation for something very simple. Always read the rule for each event carefully! Make sure you have the correct measurements, title or parts, and that you have met each requirement. Don't lose points because you didn't read carefully.

2. Always wear your NAME TAG when you are at a TSA conference. (Even when you're going to the pool.)

3. Be ON TIME for your event. You may not be allowed to compete if you are late for an event. This affects not only you, but your entire chapter. If you have an event at 8:00am and you didn't go to sleep until 2:30, it's tough but you can do it!!!

4. Wear proper TSA Attire! How you dress is important at a TSA competition. Ask your advisor how your chapter should be dressed for regional competition or during your non-event times. For State and National events, look in your TSA rule book for what you are supposed to wear! Don't lose points on an event because you are not in proper attire.

5. Use your ID Number, NOT your name! When turning in a TSA project, in most cases your name and chapter name should not appear on it. Instead, you use your ID number that you get when you check in at the conference. This is so judges can judge projects without bias.

6. Event conflict? When scheduling events for a TSA competition, some events always overlap. If you are supposed to compete in two events at one time, don't give up. Speak to your advisor first, then speak with the two event coordinators. Usually something can be worked out so you can stagger your events and get to compete in both! Don't wait until the last minute to try to make arrangements, though.

If you have other conference tips, please e-mail them to: nctsaweb@gmail.com.