UDS: 5 Fabulous Reasons to Attend

ROSE Blog: Rikki's Open Source Exchange

Last week, I had the privilege of attending the Ubuntu Developer Summit (UDS) in Budapest. Even better, Canonical sponsored my attendance. Even better than that, I applied for the sponsorship because I was encouraged to do so by a fellow woman in open source, Amber Graner.

UDS is a wonderful experience, and here are 5 fabulous reasons why you should consider attending the next one:

1. You can get sponsored: Attending UDS was not in my company's budget for me this year, but Amber Graner reminded me several times that I could apply for a sponsorship. Finally, on the last day to apply for sponsorship, I took Amber's advice and completed the quick and easy application. Turns out, I had an edge over some applicants -- I'd never attended a UDS before, so I automatically received a +1 on my sponsorship application. Read Jono's explanation of UDS sponsorships for more information about how the sponsorship process works.

2. You can get inspired: A week of intensive Ubuntu-everything can really get your creative juices flowing. UDS allows you to meet members of the Ubuntu community from around the world, and a variety of individuals who contribute everything from code to documentation to accessibility improvements. I felt really inspired by how eager the community is to make Ubuntu more accessible to people with disabilities, users who speak different languages, and new or future users. Lots of brain power packed into one lovely hotel.

3. You can work hard: The UDS schedule is jam-packed with a variety of sessions, with everything from hardware tracks to community-focused topics, so you are sure to find something interesting in each time slot. When you aren't busy learning in and/or contributing to a session, you have the opportunity to network in the hallways, which is a great way to meet potential collaborators, new friends, or future employers.

4. You can play hard: Canonical provides plenty of food and beverages during the event, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. They also throw a fabulous bash on the final night of the event, which includes musical performances by the Ubuntu All Stars and some killer karaoke. Other nights of the week, you can attend an organized excursion or vendor-sponsored gathering, or adventure outside the hotel with new and old friends. Check out our Ubuntu User Facebook photo album to see some of the faces of UDS Budapest.

5. You will be glad you did: You really will. And you'll probably want to attend again.