Congratulations on earning your letters! You’ve worked hard to reach this milestone, and now it’s time to celebrate. Attending your first CAS meeting, whether it’s a Spring meeting or the Annual Meeting, is an exciting way to mark the occasion. It’s a fantastic opportunity to expand your professional network, learn more about the field, and make new friends. But it can be both exciting and overwhelming. You’ll receive instructions emails from CAS, get tips from coworkers, and still find yourself unsure of what to expect. I’ve been in your shoes, and I hope these tips help you make the most of your first meeting. 

Book your hotel early 

Reserve your room as soon as possible to secure accommodations at the conference hotel before the room block fills up. While overflow hotels may also offer discounted group rates, commuting back and forth can be inconvenient. Even if you’re unsure about your exact travel plans, it’s a good idea to book Sunday through Tuesday nights at the main hotel. You can always adjust your reservation later. 

Read every email from CAS 

After registering, you’ll start receiving emails from the CAS meeting organizers. It may be tempting to ignore repeated reminders, but each message often contains new information or updates. Pay special attention to emails with sign-ups for special events, such as a webinar for new associates and new fellows about a month before the meeting, special events for new associates or new fellows at the reception, volunteer activities during lunch sessions, or speed networking sessions. These are especially beneficial for first-time attendees. 

Download the app and plan for concurrent sessions 

Be sure to download the meeting app, which includes session descriptions, speaker bios, and venue maps. I highly recommend attending all featured and general sessions. For the concurrent sessions that are held at the same time, planning is key. As a new associate, you may be tempted to choose topics closely related to your current work. However, this may not always be the most valuable choice, as some sessions are designed as general overviews and may not offer much for those with experience in that area. So don’t choose sessions based only on titles. Review their descriptions and read the slides, if available, to determine whether it’s an overview or a deep dive. I strongly recommend attending sessions in areas you’re curious about but less familiar with. It’s a great opportunity to expand your knowledge and ask questions. 

Roundtables are gold 

If a roundtable catches your interest, I strongly encourage you to attend it rather than a presentation. Roundtables are interactive, small-group discussions focused on peer learning. You’ll be more engaged in active conversations and have more opportunities to ask questions. They’re perfect for sharing experiences and networking in a more informal setting. Some roundtables are specifically geared toward new associates. 

Reception and Tuesday night out 

The large receptions can feel a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re attending alone or are new to networking. If that’s the case, start with the special reception for new ACAS or new FCAS. It’s a more relaxed and welcoming environment specifically designed to help you meet others who are also new to the meeting. CAS staff and Board members often attend and are happy to chat. One thing to remember is that this is a reception, not a full dinner. Also, new associates may have their group photo taken afterward, so wear your nicest outfit!  

The Tuesday Night Out is a major highlight of the meeting and not to be missed. It’s a fun, social evening typically hosted at a local restaurant or unique venue, with dinner, music, games, and other activities. It’s a chance to unwind and socialize in a lively atmosphere. There may even be a theme for dressing up. Even if you’re not big on dancing or social events, it’s worth going. Many lasting friendships and professional connections are formed during this night. 

Things to bring 

• Business casual for general sessions and most events. 
• Bring a jacket. Conference rooms are often chilly. 
• Bring a laptop if you plan to attend a workshop or case study that requires one. Check the session details in advance. Some clearly state if a laptop is needed. I once saw a packed AI workshop where only a few attendees brought laptops, which limited participation. 

New member recognition deferral policy 

New members are formally recognized at the next scheduled in-person CAS meeting after receiving their credential. Recognizing that not all new members may be able to attend that meeting, the CAS offers a one-time opportunity to defer recognition to the next immediate in-person meeting following their originally scheduled recognition date. Please note that deferrals are limited to one opportunity only, and members cannot select a meeting of their choice. To request a deferral, members must complete and submit the New Member Recognition Deferral Form. Verbal or email requests are not accepted.  

For example, a member originally scheduled to be recognized at the 2025 Annual Meeting in Austin may request to defer recognition to the 2026 Spring Meeting in New York City. Deferring allows participation in the in-person recognition activities at the 2026 Spring Meeting, including New Member Receptions, New Member Photos (featured in Actuarial Review), Celebration of New Members Ceremony, and other exclusive new member activities. However, you will remain part of the 2025 Annual Meeting new member class per CAS records. As a result, your name will not appear in the 2026 Spring Meeting printed program or related meeting materials. 

Don’t stress too much about doing everything. You’re there to learn, connect, and celebrate your accomplishment. Be open, ask questions, and don’t hesitate to introduce yourself. You’ll be surprised how welcoming the CAS community is.  

Enjoy your first CAS meeting!