Going to Congress on a Budget? We Can Help!
Linda M. Worrall, RN, MSN
You may have heard that ONS Congress is the number one oncology nursing education conference and that the next Congress will be held in San Antonio, Texas, from April 29 to May 3, 2020. Are you thinking about attending and wondering how to get the most out of your experience? There are five different education tracks to tailor education sessions to information you may want and need to care for your patients.
Planning to get to Congress is as easy as 1, 2, 3:
- Check your calendar and block this time off now.
- Seek approvals now, as needed, and in no particular order: your supervisor, partner, kids, parents, and pet sitter will guarantee that all bases are covered before you go.
- Consider the following expenses:
- Registration – Early-bird registration is the way to go. Register now and save money that you can use toward your travel!
- Hotel – A variety of hotels are listed on the ONS Congress site with guaranteed prices, while rooms are available. Consider checking with coworkers or other ONS Chapter members to see if they are attending and would like to share a room.
- Transportation – Review your options and consider time involved. One method of transportation may be less expensive, but time away from home and work greater.
Going to Congress on a budget? We can help!
The Oncology Nursing Foundation has Congress scholarships available for as much as $1,200 to apply to registration, hotel, and transportation. Last year, more than 100 nurses received an Oncology Nursing Foundation scholarship.
“I am really appreciative of this amazing opportunity, and I felt honored to be around and exposed to several creative, intelligent, and talented nurses from all over the world.”
– Magda Louis-Juste, Congress scholarship recipient
Don’t miss this opportunity! The deadline for applications is December 1, 2019.
Choosing Sessions
With so many different sessions, it is sometimes hard to choose which ones to attend. ONS has provided the schedule in a variety of formats (tracks, days, and certification Individual Learning Needs Assessment categories) to assist in locating the right sessions. Set aside time before Congress to review all the opportunities.
First-time attendees should add the Congress 101 session to their must-do list. This one-hour session is held on Wednesday evening or Thursday morning and provides tips on navigating Congress.
Having Fun and Meeting New People
Congress is not all about education. It is also about meeting oncology nurses from all around the world and sharing stories and practice tips. Don’t miss out on the extras that Congress provides. Make new friends and take care of yourself by participating in the Oncology Nursing Foundation’s wellness activities, such as the “Wake Your Warrior” yoga sessions or the annual 5K Fun Run/Walk.
With so many education and networking opportunities, plus a great city to explore, ONS Congress is the place to be in 2020.
Start planning today.