Make the Most of the 2025 NATA Clinical Symposia & AT Expo
Attending the 2025 NATA Clinical Symposia & AT Expo is more than just a professional association event and easy way to get your CEUs—it’s a powerful opportunity to grow your network, sharpen your skills, and stay on the cutting edge of the athletic training profession. With a packed agenda of expert-led sessions, industry exhibitors, and networking opportunities, it’s important to plan ahead so you leave inspired, informed, and better connected.
Here’s how to get the most out of your experience—from preparing beforehand to making valuable connections long after the closing session.
Before You Arrive
1. Get Involved Early
Want to stand out among thousands of attendees? Get involved before the doors even open. Whether it’s submitting a poster presentation, volunteering as a session assistant, or applying to be part of a committee, active participation boosts your visibility and deepens your engagement with the AT community. Keep an eye on NATA’s official communications for early opportunities.
2. Reconnect with Colleagues
Use the weeks leading up to the convention to reach out to former classmates, mentors, or industry contacts you know will be attending. A quick coffee, lunch meeting, or even a casual walk between sessions can help strengthen professional relationships that may otherwise get lost in the crowd.
While You’re There
3. Attend the First-Timer Orientation
New to the NATA annual convention? The first-timer orientation session is a fantastic way to get your bearings, meet others who are attending for the first time, and pick up tips for navigating the week. It’s also an easy, low-pressure way to start networking right away.
4. Choose Sessions Strategically
With dozens of sessions to choose from, a thoughtful schedule is key. Prioritise a mix of clinical updates, emerging research, leadership development, and hands-on workshops—plus leave room for informal meetups and unstructured time to recharge. If a session doesn’t meet your expectations, don’t be afraid to pivot.
5. Capture and Organise Your Takeaways
With so much information coming at you, real-time reflection is crucial. After each session, jot down three key insights and any action items or follow-up ideas. Whether you prefer pen and notebook, a note-taking app, or voice memos, consistent documentation helps you apply what you’ve learned once you’re back on the job.
6. Meet the Speakers
The presenters at NATA 2025 are thought leaders in athletic training. Introduce yourself after sessions, ask a thoughtful question, or follow up later via LinkedIn or email. A quick conversation now could lead to a mentoring relationship or collaboration down the line.
7. Embrace the Social Side
Don’t skip the socials—receptions, meetups, and informal gatherings are where some of the best connections happen. These relaxed settings allow for more personal conversations and long-lasting professional friendships.
8. Minimise Distractions
It’s tempting to keep your phone in hand to tweet or post updates—but don’t let screens get in the way of real-life interactions. Stay present during sessions and social events. Use your devices intentionally, whether for note-taking, sharing a key takeaway, or exchanging contact details.
After the Event
9. Follow Up With Intention
Within a week of returning, reach out to the people you met. Whether it’s a quick thank-you note, a LinkedIn connection, or an invitation to chat more about a shared interest, a timely follow-up makes your interactions more meaningful—and memorable.
10. Share What You Learned
Bring the value of the convention back to your colleagues and community. Host a team debrief, create a recap presentation, or even write a blog post summarising your key takeaways. By sharing insights and resources, you’re not just reinforcing what you learned—you’re lifting the profession as a whole.
The 2025 NATA Clinical Symposia & AT Expo is more than just a conference—it’s a catalyst for your professional growth. With the right preparation and mindset, you’ll walk away with far more than CEUs—you’ll gain new perspectives, new connections, and new momentum in your career next time they attend a great event by passing on their new skills and knowledge to you.
